In the light of recent armed robberies of Realtors sitting open houses in the Dallas area, as well as post-home-viewing burglaries committed by criminals posing as buyers, the Greater Dallas Association of Realtors offers general safety and open house tips to Realtors.

"We want to get the information out to Realtors," says Bill Head, director of communications for the GDAR.

General safety tips

1. Know who you are dealing with:

   Meet your customers and clients in your office and ask them to fill out a customer identification form before going to a property. Verify their identity from references that are on that form. Get their car make and license number. Introduce the prospect to someone in your office. Most importantly photocopy or scan their drivers license.

2. Live by the 3 W's:

   Tell someone who you are with, where you are going and when you will be back. If possible make sure your prospect knows you have shared this information with someone. An office itinerary form is a good way to take care of this.

3. Keep a cell phone by your side:

   Keep your cell phone fully charged. Call your office hourly to let people know where you are. Program emergency numbers, 911 in particular, into your speed dial.

4. Car safety:

   Always have your keys with you. Park in a well lit area. Don't get blocked in and beware of dead-end streets. If possible consider using seperate cars. Always keep your car in good running condition.

5. Personal marketing:

   Your marketing materials should be polished and professional. Limit the amount of personal information that you share. Always use your office contact information and not your home information.

6. Be a buddy:

   Know in advance who you are going to call when your instincts tell you to get help or when you need help at an open house. Find a REALTORŪ who will serve as your buddy in situations when you have concerns.

7. Dress for safety:

   Your image is important, so dress professionally. However dress for safety as well. Don't wear expensive jewelry. Always wear your cell phone (it isn't very acessible from inside your purse). Dress for the weather. Wear shoes that you can move well in.

8. Trust your instincts:

   When you feel apprehensive about a situation, or have a gut feeling that something isn't right trust your instincts. Remember these are signals that something isn't right.

9. Have a prearranged distress signal:

   You may be in a situation where you think you might need help. Have a prearranged signal to notify your office of a problem. For example you might call your office and ask for the "red file" to notify someone of your concern.

10. Let them lead the way:

    Before showing a house always have an escape route planned. During the showing walk behind your clients. Leave doors open after entering the house and any room. Avoid showing attics and basements unless it is really necessary.