When Things Go Sideways

At some point, almost everyone winds up in a public place when things go sideways. In other words, something goes wrong. Sometimes terribly wrong.

One case has had people talking for more than a week. It was when Will Smith smacked Chris Rock during the Academy Awards ceremony. My first thought was: Where is the security?

So called “Oscars” night happens live on television. It is an invitation-only event, and I know from experience that most actors have a driver and security person close by. Maybe now the show will beef-up security procedures to prevent actors or guests from getting onstage when they aren’t supposed to.

In the world the rest of us live in, if you are at a public event when something goes sideways here’s what you do: Leave.

Even if you leave, be extra careful. Deadly shootings in Sacramento and Dallas reminded us of that over the weekend.

If you’re close to whatever is happening, do NOT stay around to document the event. While you’re recording the fight or verbal altercation, it could suddenly turn tragic. A bullet doesn’t care if you’re an innocent bystander. Sadly, even for high school students, the days of standing around to see a fight are over. Or should be.

Are you planning to be out late, especially at a club? Plan to do this, too:

Leave early. Head out at least 15- to 30- minutes before closing, or before the event ends.

In my experience, most shootings and fights happen in the parking lot immediately after closing, or the event ends. Bonus: You get to beat the traffic.

Remember, clubs and many events serve alcohol. Whenever alcohol is involved crazy things are much more likely to happen. I wish I had a dollar for every time I, or a member of my team, had to escort an intoxicated person out of a club or event. Many of those individuals had been drinking long before they got there, and people typically in that situation often had alcohol in their car.

When I was a child, I was always told that nothing good happens after midnight. After many years as a security professional I know that for the worst crimes that’s true! But a couple of hours before midnight can be bad, too.

So whatever nights you hang out, remember that your decision about when to head home could affect your tomorrows.

Image: kcra.com

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I’ve got more tips for keeping yourself, your family, and your community safe in my book Rent-A-Cop Reboot, and in videos on our Leumas Publishing YouTube Channel. Check it out and subscribe!