To enhance their protection, executives should standardize how they follow certain scenarios while on the road. When you standardize, the quality of your actions improve.

Examples, from Edward Deming (father of TQM) or the US Military, teach the importance of creating standard procedures.

If you are attacked or assaulted, your emotions and stress levels rise. This leads to degraded and poor decision-making.

By preparing beforehand, you help to improve the chance you’ll take effective actions in the face of unwelcome events.

Street Smarts

• Avoid run-down areas with low light. Avoid unfamiliar ‘short cuts’ and alleyways.
• Travel in groups of two or more when possible.
• Avoid public demonstrations or other rallies that could erupt in violence.
• Do not discuss travel plans or share personal information in a manner to be overheard.
• Be wary of pickpockets. Consider a money belt. Be suspicious of being jostled, asked for directions or other diversions.
• Walk with purpose. Avoid looking like the ‘lost tourist.’
• If language is a barrier, learn a few phrases for an emergency. This tip helped me quickly depart an increasingly-hostile bazaar in Africa.

Hotel Smarts

• Use hotel safes when possible. Hotel safes are generally more secure than in-room safes.
• Don’t get in an elevator or walk up the stairs with people who appear suspicious or otherwise give off a ‘bad vibe.’
• Discover alternative exits. Besides the front door or lobby, where are the other entrances and exits? You may need to know them for a fire or other emergency.

Public Transit Tactics

• Driving. When renting, choose one of the most popular models for that country or area. If there are markings that clearly identify it as a rental, ask to have them removed. If warm climate, ensure the vehicle has air conditioning so you may keep the windows closed on busy streets.
• Taxis. Only travel on taxis clearly identified as such. Check with your hotel for recognized companies and get estimated fares before your journey.
• Buses and trains. In some countries, organized crime units operate systematic robberies of passengers. Keep your space while traveling, politely decline free food or drink that is offered and keep your cabin locked at all times. Keep your luggage within site unless it is stowed in a secure space.

Taking a few extra minutes to think through and create a standard operating procedure to handle each of the above areas, executives enhance their protection and safety while on the road and minimize the likelihood of attack.