The job of a real estate agent is relatively safe, but there have been situations when Realtors have found themselves at potential risk. When speaking with newer agents, I am often asked how to stay safe when showing properties or at an open house. Over the years, I've had the following conversation on multiple occasions:
"I am thinking about buying a handgun to keep with me. What do you recommend?"
"Have you ever fired a gun?"
"No."
"Do you plan on going to the range at least once a month to get comfortable with it?"
"I don't know... maybe."
"Then I recommend not buying one until you can put in the time to get comfortable with one. If you are concerned with safety, I recommend a few other options."
It was not until recently that I could recommend a course specific to real estate agents. The course is called Realtor Agent Safety Fundamentals and is taught by Timothy Brashier, owner and director of Practical Preparedness. This course takes agents through safety checks, how to de-escalate a situation, the art of situational awareness, identifying a threat, and knowing what to do, along with a few other important topics.
I had the opportunity to interview Timothy about the course and other topics. Timothy explained the importance of knowing how to de-escalate a situation. It's not whether you are armed; it's learning how to handle yourself and having situational awareness. That can be the difference between you controlling the situation, or someone else.
Situational awareness and managing oneself effectively can be crucial in preventing a potentially harmful situation.
As a former Marine, I am comfortable with firearms, but I also respect that there are people who are not, and who choose not to carry or own firearms. Being armed may provide some protection, but it is not necessary, and some individuals may choose not to carry or own firearms. For agents, this course is an accredited course that counts for 2hrs of CE with the Oklahoma Real Estate Commission.
If you are not a real estate agent, Practical Preparedness offers a host of other classes, such as School Safety Precautions and Readiness, In the Home Defense and Active Shooter Awareness, plus general courses on self-defense and firearms. Their goal is to educate, train and equip people to protect themselves and their loved ones in any situation.
No one wants or intends to be in a situation that calls for the training his courses provide. Writing this article, I am reminded of a day a few years ago when my office was in downtown Edmond. The Edmond Police Department called our office to inform us to lock our doors, that a man armed with a rifle was walking around the streets, and they were looking for him. As we locked the door and waited for the police to call, I thought about how important it is to be prepared, to know how to handle situations such as this when called on, wait, and hope it all works out.
You can see the full interview with Timothy Brashier at youtube.com/@lreteam, video titled Practical Preparedness with Timothy Brashier.
Along with leading the Levinson Real Estate Team with his wife, Tara, Peter Levinson also is an author, life coach and public speaker. He uses his unique blend of experiences and skills to help his audiences and clients achieve their goals and lead fulfilling lives.