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In this series of articles over the next few weeks, we’ll be sharing some quick tips that can help you and those you love stay safer.

These tips came about after we attended many self defense classes taught by martial artists who trained daily. The techniques they taught were difficult, if not impossible, to execute—or even remember unless practiced consistently.

So, we decided it would be more beneficial to everyone if there were a program that focused on staying safe and avoiding dangerous situations. There had to be a common sense approach to safety. But, we also knew it had to go beyond being confronted or grabbed by an attacker.

These tips are not the only ways to be aware or safe, but they do address many areas. The tips are for children as well as adults—so parents will want to share the information with their children.

Tip #1: Be aware of your surroundings.

Sounds simple…keep your eyes open and pay attention. Too many times people walk around in a daze, music players plugged into their ears, texting or talking on the phone, looking for all the “brown stuff” that the world throws at them. We all do this occasionally, but many make it common practice to tune out life. Watch. Don’t be paranoid, just alert—and enjoy life.

• Click here for Tip#2

About the author: Mike & Vicki Neiman

Masters Vicki and Mike Neiman own and operate South Central Taekwando with locations in Hastings and Grand Island. They have trained more than 165 Black Belts. They have been inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame both individually and as a husband-wife team. In addition to martial arts instruction in a number of disciplines, the Neimans are advocates of healthy lifestyles and essential nutrition.