Safety On The Go
What is safety on the go. Women aware defence is all about giving you as much guidance not only in the physical sense. But also valuable knowledge in order to give you and your loved ones the best chance.
So far we have covered topics such as domestic violence, stalking, drink spiking, online safety and campus safety. Just to name a few. In this next article we’ll cover car safety, public transportation and your home. All of us have to travel, whether on public transport or in cars. Sometimes as part of our jobs and sometimes for leisure. Our travel may also see us go to different cities, etc.
So let’s dive in and look at preventative measures that can be put in place around home and while travelling. Also we discuss how to non-physically deal with certain situations and scenarios, should they occur.
SMART HOME SAFETY
When you think about it the odds of someone waiting for you outside your house are insanely low. By if you have just come out of violent relationship the risk goes up. Especially if getting stalked or fear of your safety. If you are ever find yourself in this situation, a great tip is to keep your life unpredictable as you can.
For instance if someone is observing you, and if your daily routine is relatively predictable. Such as the times you are likely to be arriving or leaving on various days. If you are ever able to randomise your movements. This is vital as it will make it difficult for anyone who wishes you harm to synchronize their movements to yours. If you always go to the grocery shopping Tuesday afternoon change the pattern and sometimes go on a Wednesday.
HOUSE SAFETY
When you get into your house, close and lock the door immediately. And if you are one of those people who leaves your door open as you carry your groceries into the kitchen. If you can limit what you carry when you leave the car, you will find it much quicker to get to your front door and have a hand free to have your keys ready to open it.
Do not leave yourself vulnerable for an attack. One of my tricks is I always check around me and use the reflective surfaces so I can see behind me. Once the door is open I go in back first as I close and lock the door. So I can’t get taken by surprise.
MORE SAFETY TIPS ( safety on the go)
If you live alone, or a share house, it is a good idea to present to the casual observer/potential predator that this isn’t the case. Simple adding things like a men’s pair of muddy work boots left outside the front door, can be a simple way of creating the illusion that you don’t live alone. Putting out dog’s water bowl or warning signs of dogs on the property is a great deterrent to would-be thieves. These are just simple steps that are often just enough to cause a potential criminal to hesitate and move onto a “softer” target.
If you are in an apartment block where you have a buzzer next to your name on the door that would normally read Ms Tahlia Hayward etc. change it to be gender neutral e.g. T Hayward . This is a good way to present yourself to the outside world wherever your name has to be listed or displayed.
PEOPLE AT YOUR DOOR
Your first line of defence should be your doors peep hole, intercom or door cameras. It is important to know who you are dealing with. Also if they are who they say they are, etc. Remember you are never obligated to open your door to anyone, and many predators will use their target’s politeness, niceness and unwillingness to offend/be rude against them. Where your safety is concerned, not opening or answering your door because you have a bad feeling, is not rude.
If you have decided to open the door. A good idea to use a solid door chain to help prevent the door being forced open. As extra safety the chain can be supported with a door wedge. By simply kicking it into place. This will give added protection to the chain. Should someone try to break the chain by kicking or barging the door.
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR (safety on the go)
I remember of the best safety tips I got as a teenager, from family friends who was a police officer in my street. Was to be always aware that not everyone who comes to your door may be who they say they are. It is imperative you look for signs that support their claims e.g.
A repairman from a telephone company says they have to fix a problem on your line. They will not only be in uniform. But would also have a van standing outside your house. Regardless if you own your house or a renting. Make sure that you ask them for ID before letting them in. Even double check with the landlord if in doubt.
But what happens when have verified all the details, but you still feel unsure and uneasy about them? I would recommend go follow your gut instinct is a much safer approach. If it feels wrong, it probably is.
CAR SECURITY
Most people use their cars as a way to express themselves. In fact, you can tell a lot about a person from their car. Not necessarily from the make and model, etc., but from the bumper stickers, and personal number plates & even what’s on the backseat, etc. What we have be careful of is not to give a criminal or predator a lot of pertinent information concerning you.
I understand that we should not have to hide ourselves and should feel safe going about our daily lives. But unfortunately that is not always the case. Just like having a car sticker that reads “Girl Power “. While it’s great demonstrate a show of strength and empowerment to the outside world. You also advertising that this car is driven by a woman and this could be potentially be dangerous in certain situations. It is always better to fly under the radar than make a display of strength and force. Also be careful what you leave on the rear or passenger seats of your car. Do not leave anything valuable such as jewellery or technology visible to anyone passing by.
PARKING SAFETY AT NIGHT
Like most people walking into a carpark at night can make you feel more vulnerable and on edge. One way to lessen the risk is to park in well-lit area of the lot, and that there is a direct and easily visible route from whatever from shopping or from work. Never use your remote lock to find your car; this will not only alert any perpetrators as to where you are heading, while also unlocking the one safe place you have in this environment.
When parking your car at night, use your headlights to illuminate the area surrounding the place where you are going to park. Once parked, turn the lights off – keeping the central locking on – and let your eyes adjust to the darkness for a few moments. Sitting still for a moment will allow you to get a better feel for your environment. You can use the mirrors of the car to try and detect any movement around you.
When you approach your car, try not to have too many bags in your hands – and at the very least be prepared to drop what you are carrying in order to defend yourself, or get to your car quickly.
DO NOT BE ON YOUR MOBILE ( Safety on the go )
Most women feel that they are safer if somebody knows where they are, but in truth the person at the other end of the line is unable to help, and they will take longer to react and respond to any assault that they may hear, than the assault itself will probably take. Anything that can distract your situational awareness , negatively will decrease your safety. If you want to use your phone as a means of ensuring your safety, ring or text someone when you leave one location and then again when you reach your next destination.
Remember that personal safety is your responsibility, and to rely on another person to keep you safe is effectively adopting the mindset of a victim. A potential attacker who sees you on the phone, may believe that you are distracted from your immediate environment, and could profile you as an easy target.
DRIVING AND BREAK DOWN SAFETY TIPS
With the increase of car jackings around the world. A vital tip while driving, is to keep the central locking on and your windows up. When somebody indicates that there is something wrong with your car. Acknowledge them but keep driving until you find a garage. Or an area which is highly populated before you stop to check.
By chance if you break down, you do not want to have to get out of your car to try and fix the problem. When you have to call for assistance. Mention that you are a single female driver (especially if you have broken down at night). Many dispatchers will be under instructions to give priority to lone female drivers. If you are close to home or near an area where you have friends. Call them to see if they can come and wait with you, so you are not alone. Use your car remote locking device, if your car has this available. This is the time to use it
A great thing to have in your car is a Tactical Flashlight. These are small flashlights which are incredibly bright and can momentarily blind someone if shone directly in the face. Often all you need is a moment’s hesitation on the part of an assailant to disengage and either get back in your car, or get to a well-lit public place.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Public transit is a great way to travel around your hometown. It saves you money, it’s efficient, and it’s better for the environment than driving a car.
And with a little common sense, public transit is definitely a safe way to travel. Violent crime risks on transit are small compared with the risk of traffic accidents on public roads.
Plan ahead your route and schedule.
Avoid waiting at dark bus stops or on dark platforms. Try to get on and off in well-lit areas or where there are other people. Make sure you know when the last bus/train runs, so you don’t get stranded. If you’re travelling alone late at night, let someone know when you expect to reach your destination, then let them know when you’ve arrived.
Prepaid travel card
Have your card ready to avoid fumbling through your bag to look for your pass or the correct change. Make sure you have it ready in your hand and your bag is properly closed as you board.
If possible, sit near the driver.
Avoid sitting next to a rear door; it’s a common place for a snatch-and-go theft. If you feel uncomfortable with someone sitting nearby, try to change seats. Locate the emergency button, pull-cord, or have your phone handy in case you need to call for help.
Keep your personal belongings close to you.
Put them on your lap or in front of you between your feet. If you’re standing, keep your belongings close in front of you. Don’t carry your wallet or phone in a back pocket. Be aware of anyone trying to divert your attention; a thief may grab your bag while you’re distracted.
Stay alert and show confidence.
Be aware of your surroundings. It’s easy to tune out if you’re on your phone or listening to music. Don’t fall asleep—you become an easy target. It’s fine to chat with other passengers, but don’t divulge personal information.
Keep your electronic devices out of sight.
Flashing phones, tablets and other expensive devices can make you a target for a robbery.
Trust your instincts.
If you don’t feel comfortable about getting onto a subway/skytrain car, a bus or into a taxi, don’t. Wait for the next one.
Use your voice.
If someone attacks or touches you, shout as loudly as you can to get the attention of other passengers and/or the driver. Use specific language such as, “Don’t touch me!” or “Stay away from me.”
Don’t be a bystander.
If you witness someone being harassed or attacked, be an advocate. Consider possible actions that won’t put you or anyone else in harm’s way, and take a stand.