5 safety tips for women
1. PRACTICE AWARENESS
This is your first line of defence. Most people think of kicks to the groin and blocking punches when they hear the term “self-defence”. However, true self-defence begins long before any actual physical contact. The first, and probably most important, component in self-defence is awareness – of yourself, your surroundings, and your potential attacker’s likely strategies.
2. ESCAPE IS ALWAYS YOUR BEST OPTION
What if the unthinkable happens? You are suddenly confronted by a predator who demands that you go with him – be it in a car, or into an alley, or a building. It would seem prudent to obey, but you must never leave the primary crime scene with the predator. You are far more likely to be killed or seriously injured if you go with the predator than if you run away (even if he promises not to hurt you). Run away, yell for help, throw a rock through a store or car window – do whatever you can to attract attention. And if the criminal is after your purse or other material items, throw them away while you run in the other direction.
3. PEPPER SPRAY IS NOT YOUR SECRET WEAPON
Pepper spray, like other self-defence aids, can be a useful tool. However, it is important to understand that there can be significant drawbacks to its use. For example, did you know that it does’t work on everyone? Surprisingly, 15-20 per cent of people will not be incapacitated even by a full-face spray. Also, if you’re carrying it in your purse, you will only waste time and alert the attacker to your intentions while you fumble for it. Never depend on any selfdefence tool or weapon to stop an attacker. Trust your body and your wits, which you can always depend on in the event of an attack.
4. AVOID A CAR-JACKING
Lock all doors and keep windows up when driving. Most car-sackings take place when vehicles are stopped at intersections. The criminals approach at a 45-degree angle (in the blind spot), and either pull you out of the driver’s seat or jump in the passenger’s seat.
5. USE THE INTERNET WISELY
Although the Internet is educational and entertaining, it can also be full of danger if one isn’t careful. When communicating online, use a nickname and always keep personal information such as home address and phone number confidential. Instruct family members to do the same. Keep current on security issues, frauds, viruses, etc., By periodically referring to “The Police Notebook” Internet Safety Page.