There are some steps you can take to
help lower your risk of attack. This article will only cover
safety tips for your car and outside. We will cover
date rape prevention and home safety in future
articles.
Some of these things you might already know
but many women still ignore them because they have the
"it won't happen to me" mentality. Sadly it can happen
to anyone so be on your guard and stay safer. Here are
some easy to follow safety tips to try and avoid being
sexually assaulted.
Try and be aware of your surroundings.
Try and always walk with a friend
Walk in well lit areas only.
This goes for dates and just out on
the town fun - NEVER EVER leave your drink unattended.
Date rape drugs are easy to find and can get you
killed.
Don't get intoxicated - sounds silly
but as a woman you are a target for sickos and quite
frankly when drunk, judgment and safety go out the
door.
If you are being followed by a man -
break out the mace or pepper spray if you have it,
stay in lit areas and go into the first public place
you find. Keep looking back so the person knows you
can't be surprised and hopefully he will just go away
If a driver pulls up and asks
directions, don't get too close to the car so you
can't be grabbed.
Avoid passing too close to big bushes,
dark doorways, alleys or any other places of
concealment.
Walk facing oncoming traffic to make
it easier to be seen if help is needed
Try to use the busier bus stops
instead of the deserted ones.
If you must
frequently walk alone at night, vary your route often
Don't wear
headphones while walking or jogging, even during the
day in isolated areas you may not hear an attacker's
approach.
If you plan to jog
alone, stay in public areas also carry and personal
alarm system and mace or pepper spray.
If someone asks you
for directions, and if you do choose to reply to them,
remain at least 4 feet away.
If meeting friends
out, let them know the route you are taking and when
you plan to arrive.
Park in well lit
areas
Be extra cautious
when parking in parking garages - try and park near
the exit/entrance. Ask a coworker to walk with you to
the parking garage if at night
Try not to park next
vans, you could be pulled into the van through the
sliding door.
Check your rear view
mirror often and if you think you are being followed,
never drive to your home or pull over in a deserted
area. Drive straight to the nearest police station,
fire station, gas station, friends home or other well
lit building and honk your horn until help arrives.
Have your keys in your hand while
approaching your vehicle.
Never pick up a hitchhiker no matter
nice they look.
Don't stop to assist a disabled
motorist instead call the police and ask them to go
and help the motorist out.
Check the back seat, floor and under
the car before
approaching and entering your vehicle.
These are just a few common sense tips
that hopefully got you thinking. You brain is your best
defense weapon, use it often and hopefully danger will
never find you. Remember to go with your gut feelings,
if you feel uneasy there probably is a reason for
it...get to safety.
Chuck Dougherty Jr. is a Self defense Instructor and writer for Total Security - Self Defense & Surveillance Products. You may find more helpful free information on women's, child, home safety & crime prevention at their website www.GetSelfprotection.com
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
