Real-Life Alert (July 2025): In Pearl, Mississippi, another REALTOR® was threatened at gunpoint during an open house. The attacker assaulted her and stole her belongings. What began as a normal day, showing a home, turned into a nightmare - because she wasn’t prepared for the danger that walked through the door.
Situations like this are rare, but they are real. REALTORS® enter vacant properties, meet strangers, and face risks every day. The right awareness and preparation can mean the difference between safety and harm.
September is REALTOR® Safety Month! PSAR is bringing in two specialists: Angela Gaines, a former Police Community Relations Specialist, and Jim Bolwerk, a former lieutenant with over 30 years of experience in law enforcement.
These two experienced professionals will share real-world strategies to keep REALTORS® safe on the job. Every open house, vacant property, and client meeting carries some level of risk if the right precautions aren’t in place.
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Awareness: Recognize threats, master situational awareness, and respond to unsafe encounters.
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Be Prepared: Develop good habits and create mental action plans for unexpected situations.
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Safety Beyond Work: The skills gained here can also help protect family, colleagues, and clients.
Wednesday, September 3rd
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Live at the PSAR El Cajon Office
Meet the speakers:
Jim Bolwerk has over 30 years of experience in law enforcement. A former Lieutenant with the San Diego County Sheriff's Office, Jim managed patrol substations, and specialized investigative units, and served as a Department Spokesperson. His deep understanding of safety protocols, coupled with his experience in high-pressure situations, makes him an authority on personal safety and risk management.
Jim has spent the past eight years as a Licensed REALTOR® successfully navigating the complexities of residential and commercial transactions. His combined expertise in law enforcement and real estate positions him perfectly to provide REALTORS® with practical, actionable safety strategies that are tailored to the unique challenges of the profession.
Angela Gaines is a retired Police Community Relations Specialist with over 18 years of dedicated service at the Chula Vista Police Department. In her role within the Community Relations Unit, Angela has been instrumental in fostering strong ties between law enforcement and the community, promoting trust, and enhancing public safety. With a background in psychology from San Diego State University, she brings a deep understanding of human behavior to her work, enabling her to effectively address community concerns and develop outreach programs. Angela is also a published author, further demonstrating her commitment to communication and education within her field.
PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.
Since 1928, the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® has played a significant role in shaping the history, growth & development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County.