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A disruption can change the movements, communications and functioning of the home. Personal safety is then based on proportionate decisions: avoid unnecessary exposure, maintain safe access, seek help, and preserve the home’s capabilities. It does not require constant vigilance towards all the people encountered.
Take a distance when the tension increases
Disagreement is not always resolved by prolonged discussion. If you can leave a threatening interaction without exposing yourself further, look for this possibility. A set tone and simple request can sometimes help, but no verbal technique guarantees control of a violent person.
Keep an appropriate distance and avoid provocations. Do not become a mediator if your presence increases the danger. When safety is threatened, look for a safe place and contact the rescue team. A communication exercise must remain voluntary and free from a simulated threat that could cause injury or trauma.
Observe the useful facts
Identify a visible exit, obstacle or danger. Limit distractions while on the move. If a place feels uncomfortable, you can change routes or ask for help without having to prove that someone wants to hurt you.
The appearance, origin, or unusual attitude does not lead to a conclusion of criminal intent. Do not turn a concern into a public accusation. A useful report describes a specific behavior, place, and time.
Check the accommodation without blocking the evacuation
Examine locks, frames, lighting, and closing habits. Ask the owner or a professional for the necessary adaptations. Added protection must remain compatible with the opening of exits and the requirements applicable to the building.
A camera or alarm can inform of an event, but its presence does not guarantee that an intrusion will be prevented. Check for power, notifications and account access. Respect privacy and installation rules. Do not create dangerous traps or obstacles for occupants, visitors or rescue workers.
The SPVM’s advice recommends, among other things, well-lit accesses and vegetation that does not hide openings. An arrangement should not make the exit more difficult or hide a person who is approaching.
Preparing for the breakdown that sometimes accompanies the disruption
Keep a usable lamp, a charged phone and paper contacts. A headlamp releases hands for an ordinary task on a safe course. It does not allow entry into a smoky, flooded or structurally dangerous area.
A mobile power supply can extend the use of the phone according to its capacity. Also keep a communication solution that does not depend on the same device. Don’t assume that all services will remain available with a battery.
Preserving judgment and rest
Fatigue, pain and stress can complicate decisions. Divide the tasks and plan a succession. A break or the use of outside help may be more useful than continuing to monitor without interruption.
Breathing or relaxing exercises are not necessarily suitable for all people and should not delay a protective action. Choose comfortable practices, without imposing apnea or performance. If difficulties persist after an event, look for suitable accompaniment.
Organise voluntary mutual assistance
Communicating with neighbours can make it easier to make news or report. Define what will be shared and how to act if there is no response. Mutual assistance does not give access to the housing or personal files of others without authorization.
If you see a forced entry on the way home, do not look for the intruder yourself. Keep yourself safe and alert the police. A group of neighbours does not replace the intervention of the competent services.
Verification of departure: choose an exit, a relief person and a way to receive official notices. Correct the most concrete difficulty before adding material.
SPVM - Prevention of theft in a residence · Quebec Safety - Prevention · Quebec - Possible reactions after a disaster