The Bullet Proof Blog

Ever Had a "Principal" Pull a Knife on You?

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:30:00 +0000

Personally, it has never happened to me. Then again, I have never picked-up a client outside an AA meeting.

The Post and Courier ran this story about a "Bodyguard" in Charleston who was "protecting" a client attending an Alcoholics Annonymous meeting.

At some stage during the meeting, the "client" became dissatisfied with the "bodyguard" and produced a knife wrapped in a rag from his waist band.

What did the poor protector do to infuriate the client so? Perhaps he didn't stay within arm's length of him...maybe he allowed paparazzi to breach the inner circle. I'm thinking he probably caught him knocking back a swig of rotgut out of a hip flask at the back of the room and failed to share.

Surely the motto here has to be; If a potential client approaches you with a knife wrapped in cloth in the waistband of his trousers.....do not enter into a contract.

Clients; you might want to think twice about hiring a homeless person on the street to be your "bodyguard'.

FBI Head Honcho Almost Falls for Phishing Trap.

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 02:56:00 +0000

This is an executive speech given by the Director of the FBI, Robert S. Mueller earlier this month at the Commonwealth Club of California.

Mr. Mueller spoke of how the internet can be used not only as a conduit for commerce, but also a conduit for crime.

Later in the speech, Mr. Mueller admitted to having nearly been caught off guard by a phishing scam involving what he thought was an e-mail from his bank.

His wife has now banned him from making any online banking transactions!

Virginia Man Convicted of Selling Counterfeit Software on E-Bay.

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:58:00 +0000

Criminals come in all shapes and sizes. They don't always sneak around in the shadows wearing balaclavas or stocking masks. Sometime they are found sitting in front of their computer as their Mercedes, BMWs and Hummers sit in their driveway.

Just ask Falls Church man;Gregory William Fair. Mr. Fair recently received a 41 month jail sentence and had the afore mentioned vehicles seized along with $144,000 in cash from his home.

The highlighted story in the PC World article by Grant Gross is another example of how criminals use sites like E-Bay to off-load their illegal merchandise. Criminals like Fair either expect to get way with it or are willing to gamble that the authorities will not catch up with them.

Wrong answer Mr. Fair. I do hope that you took good care of that Hummer, though. I will be checking out the seized auction notices in the Washington Post as we just might be interested in adding a cheap H2 to our company vehicles.

Are we Guaranteed a Job?

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 23:20:00 +0000

We are currently receiving many requests regarding our 7 day Executive Protection training program in Las Vegas from 12/6 - 12/12/09.

One of those people e-mailed me today and asked; "After we finish our training at SEXTON, are we guaranteed a job?" I told him that it was a good topic for a blog, so I hope he's reading.

My first response is always; "there are no guarantees in life". Those training schools who are promising jobs upon graduation are probably the very ones who will never send you on a single assignment.

At SEXTON we hire approx. 50% of all of our graduates over the course of time. Not everyone will be hired the first week. We would have a far higher rate of hiring course attendees if the GRADUATES themselves returned phone calls in a timely manner and made themselves more available.

Here is a secret that we tell those who enroll in our courses; YOU are the one responsible for your future and YOU are the one who can ultimately make or break you. In every single class, we have graduates who do not bother sending in their paperwork to become registered and to be able to work legally.

To make matters worse, we are one of the few schools who bring all of the necessary paperwork to the course, show them how to complete it, assist them to properly complete it - making sure they do not make mistakes, fingerprint them and take a digital photograph (that will be required by the Department of Criminal Justice Services to receive the PPS registration).

Bottom line, if you go through our E.P. training program and you are serious about working as an E.P. agent, I guarantee that you will get work.

Of course there is a big difference between "thinking" you want to do this job and actaully doing it.

Bringing Down La Familia's Drug Empire

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 23:22:00 +0000

Bloomberg news is reporting good news this morning as more than 300 members of the Mexican drug cartel have been arrested.

This "family" needs to be stomped out right now. Apparently they have a foot hold throughout the U.S. and are believed to be operating in every State.

Hopefully our politicians keep these Southern neighbors in their sights. Last year, the buzz phrase was illegal Mexican aliens.

We should not forget some other nasty traits such as refusing to extradict cop-killing murderers and poisoning our young.

Will U.S. Troops Get Hooked on Heroin?

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 22:59:00 +0000

Dylan Rattigan's morning show on MSNBC last Tuesday covered the topic of U.S. soldiers getting hooked on heroin. Could the Taliban and/or Al-Qaeda use Afghan Poppies to weaken coalition forces?

The idea does not seem all that far-fetched, unfortunately. Apparently, drugs were readily available and being abused in Viet Nam by U.S. (and others?) soldiers.

Commanders should take the threat - potential or otherwise, serious. Drugs are not something to be taken lightly. Not only is there the fear of addiction (think of the unthinkable consequences of a drug-induced soldier trying to fend off the enemy), but the lotto-like pay day an unscrupulous foreigner (with a get-out-of-jail free card) could reap is bound to occur to some there on the ground.

Which makes one wonder why these poppy fields could not be flame-throwered out of existence like they are in other parts of the world by joint DEA/coalition/local forces/special unit efforts?

Could the rumors be true, that warlords are being allowed to grow their addictive crops as long as they promise not to attack us/Karzai's Government? Let us hope not.

White-powder pushers need to be eradicated like the vermin they are.

New International Executive Protection Agents

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 02:29:00 +0000

The graduates and instructors of SEXTON's International E.P. Training Program arrived back in Miami yesterday from 7 days of International Training.

The successful graduates performed admirably during reality-based scenarios in; Cozumel, The Cayman Islands and Jamaica.

The International Training Program (I.T.P.) was designed to give E.P. agents international knowledge and real-life experience to better prepare them to handle international assignments.

The training team was interviewed by Carl Gilchrist from "The Gleaner" newspaper in Jamaica. Mr. Gilchrist was extremely interested in the unique training experience that SEXTON brought to Jamaica.

After conducting the exclusive interview, Mr. Gilchrist was treated to a hands-on demonstration of the agents "at work".

The students successfully protected Principals from possible assaults in Cozumel from terminated employees, from street crime/violence in Jamaica and surveillance/ street attack in Grand Cayman.

"I would be proud to have these graduates protecting our current and future clients", stated John Sexton, Director of Training for Sexton Executive Security.

Can this South Carolina Mayor be Serious?

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 01:34:00 +0000

The NJLawman.com carries this insane story about Mayor Sallie Peake, who has ordered the Police Officers in her City to refrain from foot pursuits!

Her reason behind the idiotic request? She doesn't want the insurance premium to go up if a Police Offcier gets hurt on the job. She has probably already ordered the Police to only drive a certain amount of miles per shift in order to save fuel.

The criminals must love Mayor Peake to pieces. One might be forgiven for thinking that she is a caring individual - if you did not see her being interviewed. Anyone who watches this interview can not but wonder who voted this person into office.

The citizens of Wellford, South Carolina might be saving money on the city's workman's comp insurance, but they better hope that they are never the victim of a burglary, rape, robbery, or any other crime that mght involve a Police Officer having to chase a fleeing criminal.

If Charles Manson is ever successful in one of his many parole hearings, I would suggest that he moves to Wellford, SC and runs for public office.

Saudi Prince is Almost Killed Trying to Rehabilitate Al-Qaeda Suicide Bomber

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:45:00 +0000

This is an amazing story by Frank Gardner, a BBC security correspondent.

Recent events in Saudi Arabia shows that Al Qaeda are more than ever seeking to "up the ante" and push the envelope.

Just when the airline industry thought they had covered every feasible avenue of concealment - along comes the bad guys with a way to digest a bomb, making themselves quite literally, A WALKING TIME BOMB.

Another thing that this attempted assasination in Jeddah of Prince Mohammed bin Nayef teaches us, is that Al Qaeda are not focusing solely on Western Capitalists. To those out there working with Middle Eastern clients and Principals - be extremely vigilant.

Just because someone appears to come from the Middle East, does not mean they are not planning to inflict serious injuries on your Principal. Apart from how it may effect your livelihood and your very life, how damaging would it be for a Saudi Royal family member to be attacked...not even killed, but attacked while visitng the U.S.?

That is why our Institute teaches the importance of Predictive Profiling as opposed to Racial Profiling. This will have more relevance now than ever before with the prevalence of Middle Eastern clients visiting the U.S. and other destinations and needing a security team ready to react to any and all threats.

Security professionals need to immerse themselves in all of the latest trends and incidents - electronic equipment, political, cultural, religious, etc. To be in the top few percent, you need to be aware of everything that can help and hurt your client/principal.

For those of us in the security profession - congratulations, you have a "job for life". Continue to train and develop as a specialist as you are in a unique position - you are in a field that is literally recession-proof.

The bad guys will always continue to be bad and the world will always need good guys to protect those in society who are in need of protection. As Col. Dave Grossman is famous for saying; "There will always be wolves looking to prey on the innocent lambs. Our job is to be the "sheep dog".

We are there to keep vigilant watch. Never let your guard down as there may be a "wolf" standing by to take advantage.

Are the Taliban Insurgents Winning the War in Afghanistan?

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:16:00 +0000

The US and NATO Commander, General McChrystal seems to think so. At least, they will win if he does not receive more troops. In this Washington Post article written by Bod Woodward on 9/21/09, The General lays out reasons for his thought provoking claim.

It is difficult to believe that this is the same Taliban who back in 2001 and 2002 were described as being poorly equipped and poorly trained - who appeared to have no chance whatsoever against the Coalition Forces.

Did the Coalition Forces make the mistake of dimissing the Taliban as a ragged, rabbel-rousing mob, incapable of inflicting serious damage on the more sophisticated Western Armies?

We should use history as our teacher ("those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it")and bear in mind that the Afghan fighting men have a long history of overcoming the odds and defeating the might of much bigger forces. One has only to look at how they kicked England's arse on more than one occassion and the fact that they could not be defeated by the Soviets.

Washington does not appear to be overly concerned by General McChrystal's warnings. It is not like the General is beating around the bush when he says; "without more forces within the next year, the eight year conflict will likely result in failure". Even a double-talking Washington suit should be able to pick up on that statement. Private Investigators call that; "a clue".

The General also criticizes Afhganistan's very corrupt Government. He claims that the citizenry have little reason to support their Government. This coupled with the view that US/NATO resolve is uncertain, makes them unwilling to allign with us against the insurgents.

Far from viewing the Taliban as a bunch of rabble-rousers, General McChrystal refers to them as being a "muscular and sophisticated enemy". He paints a very scary picture of petty offenders and ordinary criminals being housed with insurgents in jails across Afghanistan and subsequently being recruited by those detained insurgents.

The General warns that the Afghan prison system has become a "sanctuary and base to conduct lethal operations". He goes on to state; "the enemy now operate with relative impunity in the prisons". With all of the effort to eradicate insurgency ove the past 8 years, the General claims that "there are more insurgents per square foot in corrections facilities than anywhere else in Afghanistan".

Seems like we should be focusing on the penal system more closely and building maximum security prisons where the hardcore extremists can posion each others' minds instead of infecting those who may be merely "passing through".

Seems like we should also be "bailing out" General McChrystal and giving him the means to defeat the enemy. Or do we just want to withdraw with our tail between our legs like the English and Russians did before us?

Professional Training Rewards

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 02:22:00 +0000

Readers of this blog hardly need to be reminded of the advantages that continuing training brings.

Unfortunately, many people focus on the cost of training - which is a very legitimate concern, but it's something of a "no pain, no gain" situation.

We have designed an overseas training program for Executive Protection professionals who wish to gain experience in working overseas and to be able to compete for lucrative assignments.

Luckily for those who decided to enrol, it appears as if we may have a number of full time overseas positions arising in the coming months. Since we always believe in hiring our own graduates for our clients' needs, those trained in overseas protection will be the first to be offered a position.

The other great benefit though, is that those graduates will qualify for a higher rate of pay. When you take into consideration that this higher rate applies to each week of a 48 week contract and beyond, it is very easy to see how an initial training program can pay for itself many, many times over.

Therefore we say; "Good Luck" to the future grads of the International Training Program (I.T.P.) 2009!

Israel Warns of New Attacks in India

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 02:09:00 +0000

The BBC reports on the likelihood of new attacks on Americans and Israelis visiting India.

In a way, it's pretty much of a safe bet story. We all witnessed the carnage in Mumbai last November when the extremists targeted foreigners.

Apparently, the same group as before are believed to be organizing the new spate of attacks across India. Israeli authorities are describing the intel as "a concrete, very serious threat".

SEXTON is planning on visiting Mumbai in the coming months to better understand and further investigate the attacks which left more than 170 dead. Eye witnesses will be interviewed and the new security measures that have been put into place since then will be assessed.

Plaxico Burress Goes to Jail

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 04:11:00 +0000

In USA Today's "The Huddle", Sean Leahy writes about Plaxico Burress pleading guilty and receiving a 2 year jail term today.

Readers may recall that Burress shot himself accidentally in a Manhattan night club earlier this year.

I was talking to Washington Redskin, Chris Horton, about the Burress case today at the Quarterback Club. Ric "Doc" Walker was jokingly singling out some of the Redskins who may need Executive Protection as they had previously played for other NFL teams.

As I was explaining to Chris, your personal safety and safeguarding your livelihood and future is a serious matter. Plaxico sure won't be living the high life sitting in a jail cell or being given a jail job making $0.47 an hour in the laundry room.

The saddest part about the unfortunate incident is that it could have easily been avoided altogether. If an NFL or NBA or NHL star feels that their life is being threatened to the point where carrying a firearm is necessary - then hire a professional security firm who will provide a Licensed Personal Protection Agent.

Not only are they licensed to carry a firearm - they are TRAINED. They will not shoot themselves or the client in the feet like Plaxico. If they have to fire their weapon (extremely rare for this to ever happen), then they will be the ones making the report and answering the questions.

Think Liability. Someone who carries a gun illegally is breaking the law and if caught, will be treated as a criminal. Plaxico's attorney complained that his client was treated more harshly because he was a celebrity.

Guess what? That's all the more reason to hire a professional Protector. Make sure that everything is above board and being a celebrity will not be a problem.

These guys need to invest in their personal security. What more important investment is out there?

Doing Business in Afghanistan....Bring a Bodyguard

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 16:31:00 +0000

As if security was not already a big enough concern in Afghanistan, a new document has surfaced that could make doing any kind of business in Afghanistan that much more dangerous and potentially lethal.

A report from TVNZ discusses the disturbing new information coming to light.

The document which was discovered in July, contains a directive issued by an Al Qaeda advisor; Mustafa Hamid. In the directive, Hamid calls on the Taliban to start kidnapping foreigners as well as foreign military personnel.

This new kidnapping blitz is believed to be a tactic to force foreign Governments, in particular the U.S., to release terrorists in a type of "prisoner exchange" program. This idea is no doubt fashioned after the type of prisoner exchange operating between Palestine and Israel.

The bottom line is; if you are fortunate enough to have landed a Govt. contract or are planning on visiting Afghanistan as part of a private initiative, think long and hard about your personal security.

Proactive measures are ALWAYS more effective than reactive ones. Effective in every way - from a P.R. point of view, to a financial one - it will be many, many times cheaper to pay a professional Personal Protection Specialist to protect you for a week or two whilst in a dangerous city or country than it will be to negotiate a ransom, which may start in the millions of dollars.

Know your Beat

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 02:50:00 +0000

I was passing through LAX a couple of weeks ago on my way to an international conference in Brisbane. I desperately needed a WiFi connection before the flight departed.

There is a large amount of last minute business preparation asscoiated with overseas travel when you are a business owner. This is further complicated when travel involves going to the other side of the world.

If I didn't get online, I would have nobody to pick me up down under, after 20 + hours in the air and that thought drove me even harder.

I visited an American Airlines "help booth" with 30 minutes to go until boarding. There was an older gentleman at the desk who seemed to be the type to have retired once or twice before, but who needed something to keep him active.

I asked about the possibility of an internet connection of any sort. He pointed to an area and said; "I'm not sure what that is there, but the young kids spend a lot of time around it".

I walked the 20 feet or so to where he had pointed and discovered a charging area for cell phones. In his normal day, he must have cause to walk by that charging pole at least 6 times a day...maybe twice that.

If I wasn't so desperate to get connected, I probably would have laughed. As it was, I wondered how someone could wear a uniform for all the world to see who they worked for and yet be such a clueless ambassador.

Know your area and know your field. In the seurity profession, many non-security types believe us to all be "experts". That is a reasonable expectation.

Lets do our best not to let them down.

Standing up to the Somali Pirates

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 02:30:00 +0000

The linked report from PlanetData shows another example of a ship's crew who were not willing to stand idly by after they came under attack by Somali Pirates last week.

It's somewhat ironic that the ship was from North Korea. Media reports would have us believe that most North Koreans are literally starving to death. Perhaps these guys were more energized due to their operating outside of the borders of the restrictive regime.

Also ironic is the fact that reinforcements came in the guise of a U.S. Battleship, at least according to the Captain.

Many such ships are loath to use armed security agents or have any firearms aboard as this would inhibit their entry into ports of call. Carrying a few jars and rags and a box of matches seems to solve the weapon problem though.

Cocktail anyone?

Raid in New York City for Al Qaeda Operatives

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 13:12:00 +0000

The attached FOX news item is a very real reminder that terrorists are living amongst us. A suspected Afghan terrorist living in the mid west visited what may have been an Al Qaeda cell in NYC.

A recent poll showed that fewer Americans are worried about a future terrorist attack, eight years after "9-11". This is not shocking, but is to be expected. Even horrific memories begin to fade with the passing of time - especially for those who did not lose a relative or colleague on that terrible day.

What is more disturbing though, is the fact that many people believe there is little chance of a future attack due to; (a)the passing of 8 years without a subsequent attack in the United States and (b)security is so vastly improved that the terrorists "don't stand a chance".

Incidents like today's raid in Queens shows us that the threat is real and is still here. Rather than feeling comfortable with the passing of time, we should be concerned that the more time goes by, the closer we are drawing to the next attack - which most experts will tell you is inevitable.

Remember; Complacancy Kills.

Chasing the American Dream

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 21:40:00 +0000

If you have ever felt like you had it bad - money was tight, bills to be paid - watch the HBO documentary "Which way Home". The story revolves around the thousands of teens and pre-teens who leave their homes in Central America to reach relatives in the U.S. in cities like New York and Los Angeles.

For the most part, these children ride on the top of freight trains traveling from Southern Mexico northwards to the U.S. border. The children in the documentary ranged from 9 years to 17.

Not only are these little children brave enough to leave parents (usually a mother) and siblings in order to travel across countries to reach the United States where they believe they will be able to find work and send money home to those left behind, but they face incredible danger and often death to do so.

At the very least, most of them will be beaten by Mexican Police, who board the trains and rob the children of what little belongings they possess - watches, a few pesos, rucksacks. Others are raped, starved and often killed - either by the "mules" who were paid to transport them, or they fall off the train in their sleep and are mangled and disfigured.

Amazingly, they know the dangers that await them. One of the most dangerous trains they frequently ride has been nicknamed "The Beast", due to the number who fall off and get run over or who get killed when the train derails. The "pull" of the United States is too strong though and they carry on hoping this will be the time that they are successful in making it across the border.

It is such an incredibly sad story, that it should make anyone already living in the United States grateful for what they have - even if it is not a lot. One little 9 year old boy was apprended by the authorities was found to have been away from his family on his trek for the past 3 years....wandering since he was a six year old.

If there was a way to harness the perseverence and bravery of these young boys and girls, just think what they might be capable of achieving later on in life.

September 11 - 8 Years Later

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:08:00 +0000

It is hard to believe that 8 years have passed already since the terrible occurances of 9-11. CNN early news commented this morning about the change in the country since those days.

If we cast our minds back, we will recall how the whole country came together as one and divisions were erased overnight. Sadly, this is not the case today. Political parties and their followers are more divided than ever about issues such as healthcare.

The general public are less concerned about future attacks as well. Those of us in the security profession realize that there is no room for complacancy, however. Terrorists can attack just about anywhere at any time.

If you are travelling with a Principal, remember the most recent attacks in Mumbai and practice your own security measures even though the hotel or venue may already have security in place. Expect the unexpected and always be prepared to react.

It will be up to you as an E.P. agent to know the political climate when you travel and to advise your Principal on where travel should be avoided or an itinerary changed as the situation dictates.

The drunken driving ads on the television say; "arrive alive", but it is our goal that we both Arrive and Depart alive.

Do You Want to Work Overseas as a Bodyguard?

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:35:00 +0000

We are closing down the registration process for our inaugural International Training Program in the next 48 hours.

This is a very unique and valuable training program. It was created as a result of so many agents asking to be given overseas assignments, yet the majority of them had no overseas experience whatsoever.

Being a corporate bodyguard or, Personal/Executive/Close Protection Agent/Officer is an occupation best suited to those who are able to manage with little to no supervision. Apart from the obvious - being able to protect the lives of their Principals, E.P. Agents are often looked upon as sources of knowledge pertaining to all security and even non-security related matters.

The Protector's role is further complicated where overseas travel is concerned. When a need arises in the U.S., it is much easier to find a resource - the first place to turn will be to the hiring company/agency. Overseas though, one needs to have contacts or a source who can provide assitance by contacting tried and trusted associates.

The ITP program will train Agents how to effectively network and to work with foreign agencies and associates, become knowledgable regarding the various international licensing requirements, use of firearms, visa requirements, currencies, corporate travel, etc.

If you feel like you have what it takes to work overseas and are ready to make the investment in yourself, please contact the training division at; training@sextonsecurity.com to secure your seat today. You must have a valid passport as we will be training on the ground in Cozumel, Jamaica and Grand Cayman between 10/10 and 10/17/09.

More information about the program can be found on the company website or by calling; 703 293 6262.

Privacy Awareness on the Increase Worldwide

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 06:58:00 +0000

Investigators, Doctors, Insurance Agencies -whatever line of business you are in these days it is becomming more likely that your profession will have to adhere to increased regulations where privacy is concerned.
I have been attending the 55th annual conference of the Council of International Investigators in Queensland, Australia and the theme to this year's conference was "Privacy Issues".

There was an impressive array of speakers to asist the disemenation of information and updates from around the world. Professor Paul Wilson, Chair of Criminology and Forensic Psychology at Bond University gave the security profession something to ponder when he discussed the pro and cons..but mainly the cons of the proliferation of CCTV cameras in today's society.

One thought-provoking statistic which surfaced from his lecture was that in general, those who monitor CCTV cameras are likely to spend over 83% of their working period devoted to duties other than monitoring the cameras. The United Kingdom is said to have more than 4 million cameras installed in public places.

On average, a person going about their business in London is likely to be captured three hundred times each day on the city's camera system. While these cameras are sure to be a great tool to identify criminal activity, it is little wonder so many groups are starting to make themselves heard regarding the electronic intrusion in peoples' daily lives.

Australian Doctors Killing Patients as in the U.S.

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 06:53:00 +0000

A couple of weeks ago, The Bulletproof Blog carried a story about tens of thousands of patients being killed accidently in hospitals across the United States. After watching Sky News in Brisbane this morning, it is clear that the problem is most likely universal.

ABC news in Australia carried a similar story today about a survey completed by junior doctors in Queensland.

The Queensland doctors admitted in a survey that at least 2 patients had died due to mistakes made by them. A staggering 80% admitted to prescribing the wrong medication to patients, while nearly 60% admitted to having made mistakes in performing procedures while they were fatigued.

The findings are quite frightening and shows that overworking doctors can have lethal results. Others admitted to crashing their cars on the way home form work. One rural Queensland doctor worked 168 straight days without having a day off.

Why do administrators and Governments allow this to happen? Countries do not let professional drivers drive until they crash and kill people - they introduce measures to make sure that they are not over-doing it.

It is difficult to imagine that people maybe taking their lives into their hands just by seeking medical attention. Unfortunately, it is not like we can do anything about it either. We may decide to cut our own grass or change the car's oil ourselves, but we are hardly likely to pick up a scapel and have a go.

It is high time that hospitals once again become places of refuge and hope - not a place to be feared more than the ailments that drive us there in the first place.

Putting Your Best Foot Forward

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 01:43:00 +0000

I have spoken in the past about the art of resume writing and submittal. Here is an example of what to "never do".....

I received a resume from a person who was looking to join our company as.....something. Bodyguard....Private Investigator...Corporate Consultant...I don't know.

His resume was not accompanied by a cover letter. Usually, I do not have the time to respond to such a request, but I was headed over to Ireland and wanted to clear out my current e-mail before I left. Also, he stated that if we hired him, we would soon realize that he was our best asset. I was intrigued.

I called our "future best asset" and asked about his training. It was minimal at best. I then asked where he was currently working. He was unemployed. I asked what registrations he possessed. He informed me that whatever he did have, had expired.
He was what you might call - a "legend in his own mind".

In real estate they say; "location, location, location". In security we say; "training, training, training". Professionals do not allow licenses and registrations to lapse and expire. They also never claim to be something they are not.

That other person's name is now prominently displayed on our; "never-call-in-a-million-years" list...and we won't.

Baltimore City Police - Love Facilitators

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 01:30:00 +0000

That male stripper who came to the party dressed as a cop....may be a real cop - a Baltimore City Cop!

The Baltimore Sun story about the Baltimore City Police Helicoptor Unit has left the Police Department with egg on their face. Many are asking why city funds were wasted on Delegate Cordin's marriage proposal.

The delegate would not be the first politician to squander public money, but is this the kind of person who should be entrusted with looking out for the voter's interests?

Ordinary people hire fake Police to amuse their friends at birthday paries and the likes. It seems though that politicians are anything but ordinary.

Afterall, what better way to impress a woman than to show her that you have a city's Police Department at your beck and call and ready to do your bidding?

Dying to Text

info@sextonsecurity.com (John Sexton) — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 09:35:00 +0000

I was watching an educational video yesterday that was produced in Wales. It depicted three young teenage girls riding in a car and the driver was texting.

Of course the driver's attention was distracted and an accident occurred. The ensuing damage and injuries were extremely life-like. Heads banged off and through car windows and there was a lot of blood.

Some people appeared to criticize the video for being too graphic. Real life is graphic. It's a fact that a teenager's attention can be distracted by as much as 35%when texting and driving.

If the sight of heads banging off windows and blood offends anyone, then it would appear that the producers got it right. Many people have to be literally shocked in order to take notice.

Interestingly, everyone who was interviewed after watching the video said they would not text and drive again. Maybe that is the answer. Maybe we need to see a lot more shocking videos in order to make us change our ways.