Don’t be a target: How Families Stay Safe During the Holidays

As the holiday season approaches, crowded malls, package deliveries, and busy public spaces create new risks for families. In this episode of Time to Head North, host Vincent “Rocco” Vargas sits down with Johnny “JC”, a former Marine, law enforcement officer, SWAT team member, and high-threat protection instructor, to break down practical, real-world strategies for staying safe during the holidays.

Johnny shares lessons learned from years of military service, policing, overseas diplomatic protection, and executive security. Together, they discuss how mindset, situational awareness, and simple preventative habits can dramatically reduce risk for you and your loved ones. This conversation focuses on protecting what matters most—your family—without fear, paranoia, or overcomplication.

Topics covered include how criminals choose soft targets, why mindset matters more than gear, how to shop safely in crowded malls, parking lot awareness, walking to your car at night, protecting packages from theft, home security basics, and teaching kids situational awareness without creating anxiety. Johnny also explains why deterrence, lighting, numbers, and awareness are often more effective than confrontation.

This episode is designed for everyday families who want clear, actionable guidance they can use immediately during the holiday season. Whether you’re shopping, traveling, or at home with family, this conversation will help you think differently about personal safety and security.

Time to Head North is brought to you by The North Group — security refined by intelligence.