GET SAFE
Stuart Haskin founded GET SAFE in 1987 and currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer. Stuart’s philosophy and the foundation for GET SAFE’s mission is to change mindsets to change outcomes and save lives - which ultimately leads to stronger and safer communities.
Stuart’s roots began in martial arts, attaining 4th degree black belts in Northern Shao-lin Kung Fu, Hapkido and Tae Kwon Do as well as an additional black belt in Judo. He also wrestled at the collegiate level. This expertise led to positions as a martial arts and self-defense instructor, including Krav Maga Defensive Tactics for Law Enforcement and Civilians; executive and dignitary protection; event and club security; and a Reserve with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. With 22 years of law enforcement experience, he now serves as a Lieutenant overseeing reserves and volunteers. These experiences taught him the value of reading human behavior, enhancing emotional intelligence and effective communication tactics to recognize signs of aggression or potential violence before they escalate. He also quickly learned that most violence response efforts implore reactive measures, but neglect to focus on aspects that could prevent the aggression and trauma from occurring in the first place.
Stuart has spent decades empowering all populations, including survivors of violent crime, human trafficking and sexual assault, persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities, at-risk youth, law enforcement, campus, and corporate entities. He and the GET SAFE team focus on teaching violence prevention techniques, environmental awareness, effective communication tactics, how to utilize and enhance protective factors, recognizing signs of potential violence before they escalate, and how to seek support in the aftermath of an incident. His extensive experience training a multitude of audiences uniquely qualifies him to bridge gaps in understanding, respect, empathy, and perspective between civilians and law enforcement. He has served as Subject Matter Expert for state level inquiries in the areas of Crisis Intervention and De-Escalation.
His podcast ‘Movement for Change’ invites guests to discuss key social, emotional, and psychological topics revolving around positive change impacting our communities. Stuart authored The Gift of Freedom: A Stronger, Safer You, an entertaining and informative book with helpful daily personal safety tips, anecdotes, and real-life stories to help readers begin to live their lives without fear.
