Ex-educators learn about crime prevention from guest speaker

Members of the Franklin County Retired Educators Association learned about crime prevention during their recent monthly meeting.

Association members welcomed guest speaker Stephanie Mayfield, a retired Russellville City Schools educator, who presented a program called “Safety First.”

Mayfield serves as a community corrections officer for Franklin County and works as a self-defense and defensive driving instructor.

She also teaches anger management and previously taught English as a Second Language with Russellville City Schools. She now teaches with Muscle Shoals City Schools.

Mayfield opened the program by emphasizing the importance of awareness and instinct.

“Awareness is your first line of defense,” she said. “Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.”

Mayfield advised members for their own safety they should: Stick to well-lit, busy areas.

Avoid shortcuts through isolated spaces and walk with confidence.

Avoid conversations with strangers and carry a whistle or personal alarm.

Limit cell phone use in public and choose well-lit parking areas.

Lock vehicles, keep valuables out of sight and have keys ready when approaching a home.

Report suspicious activity or theft immediately by calling 911.

Other safety tips she offered were: Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

Do not open doors to unknown individuals.

Request identification and contact a neighbor or authorities if uncertain.

Install home security measures such as alarms, cameras and lighting.

Use landscaping to improve visibility and deter intruders.

“If someone bumps into you or attempts to snatch your pocketbook, let it go,” Mayfield said, citing personal safety as more important than items. “Criminals often target seniors.”

She advised not opening doors to people you don’t know and make sure to request identification when necessary.

Contact a neighbor or authorities if something feels uncertain.

Mayfield recommended motion-activated and timer-controlled lighting. She advised listeners to secure their garages and use deadbolts and reinforced doors and windows.

Mayfield discussed strategic landscaping as another safety measure.

“This involves creating a defensive perimeter that maximizes visibility and restricts intruder access,” Mayfield said.

Other tips offered were: Keep shrubs trimmed low and prune trees to increase visibility.P Plant thorny bushes under windows.

Use gravel pathways or motion-sensor lighting to deter intruders.

Secure valuables and consider a guard dog.

Mayfield also talked about workplace and community safety, scenario planning, speeding laws, emergency supplies and crime prevention resources.

Following Mayfield’s presentation, members voted on officers for the Franklin County Retired Educators Association. Officers for 2026-28 include Sandy Gibson, president; Brenda Oliver, vice president; Faye Swinney, secretary; and Judy Baker, treasurer.