Many violent crimes, including the recent killing of a home inspector in California and a shooting at a New York brokerage, may seem random. But the truth is real estate professionals, who are often targeted because of the nature of their work, are typically victimized by predators who stalk them and learn their routines. So, it’s important to get a better understanding of the threats you face in the field.

Learn from the experiences of real estate practitioners James Olsen and Kitty Wallace, who were both targeted by criminals. They share lessons from their dangerous encounters in the above video, “Predators: The True Nature of Crimes Against REALTORS®.” Olsen, who was attacked by two men in a vacant home, and Wallace, who was harassed by a menacing caller, can help you understand what the timeline of a predatory crime looks like. Knowing this will help you protect yourself at all times—not only when danger is imminent.

There are many opportunities to strengthen your knowledge this REALTOR® Safety Month, which starts Wednesday and runs through September. The National Association of REALTORS® is hosting a two-part webinar series, “Avoiding REALTOR® Danger Zones,” on Sept. 15 and 16 at 1 p.m. CT, which will feature best practices from former police officer and real estate veteran Janet Judd. You also can take the REALTOR® Safety Pledge to affirm your commitment to personal safety on the job. And REALTOR® associations can use the 30-Day Safety Plan to promote safety content throughout September.

Get more REALTOR® Safety resources at nar.realtor/safety.