For several years, fatal automobile accidents have rivaled firearms as the leading cause of death for federal agents. At the FBI training facility in Quantico, Va., their Tactical Emergency Vehicle Operators Course (TEVOC) teaches drivers how to react quickly and avoid obstacles to make dangerous driving as safe as possible.

When something happens in front of a driver, the typical reaction is to slam on the brakes. But this often leads to losing control of the vehicle and collision.

AMW host John Walsh recently visited this facility and participated in the TEVOC training course. Whether a federal agent or an everyday citizen, when you learn how to respond to an emergency situation by steering around rather than relying on braking, you can maintain control of the vehicle at all times.

One of the important techniques they teach Special Agents at the FBI’s Tactical Emergency Vehicle Operators Course (TEVOC) in Quantico, Va. is how to get out of a skid. Most crashes are preceded by a skid, typically caused by a driver over-steering or over-braking. The TEVOC teaches techniques which apply not only to highly-trained federal agents, but also everyday citizens: the FBI teaches students not only what to do in a skid, but also how to get out of it.

• Counter-steering: Steer the vehicle in the direction you want the car to go.
• Maintain smooth movements and grip the steering wheel properly.
• Most importantly: avoid the skid. You are better off avoiding the skid than having to recover from it.

According the Pew Internet Life project, more than 30 million Americans are using text messages to communicate. And now, in over 100 cities and towns all over the country, you can use text messaging to help fight crime in your community. Many police departments are now allowing citizens to report crime tips anonymously via text messages. Police are hoping to engage more teens and 20-somethings who might not normally contact authorities, and get them involved in crime prevention and reporting. Continue reading Text Your Crime Tips To Police »

First impressions are key in everything we do, but they’re especially important when screening someone to work with your family. Choosing a nanny or babysitter to work with your kids is one of the most important decisions you can make.

With all prospects, be sure to schedule an in-person, one-on-one interview. Pay attention to appearance. Is he or she smiling? Well kempt? Look for body language cues that may signify an attitude. For anyone you think you want to hire, invite him or her back to meet your kids. Beyond the requisite identity and experience questions, the International Nanny Association suggests you ask questions that tune into your feelings, since feelings are usually a good indicator in choosing the right nanny. Continue reading Asking A Prospective Babysitter The Tough Questions »