Here are some things you can doimmediately to make sure you’re safe and sound, no matter whether you’re at home enjoying some time with your kids or outrunning errands: 1. Always, always be aware of your surroundingsThe worst thing you can do is have no idea who or what is around you.
The more you pay attention, the less likely you are to be surprised. Also, if somethingdoeshappen and you’re awitness, you’ll be able to provide better information tolaw enforcement. 2. Limit your distractionsIf you’re walking through a deserted parking lot, is it really necessary to send a text right that moment?
If you’re focused solely on your phone and checkingyour email, you’re not going to notice if something, or someone, looks out of place. 3. Make eye contact The best thing you can do is let others know that you see them and could identify them if needbe.
When you pass someone on the street, look them in the eye and give a polite nod of the head to acknowledge you see them very clearly.
- Walk with purposeStand tall and keep your posture so thatit represents authority.
The less you look like a victim, the less likely someone will target you as such. So, pull your shoulders back, keep your back straight and your stomach in and walkin a way that lets theworld know that youwill not go down without a fight. 5. If you see something suspicious, report itDon’t worry about whether you’re overreacting or being overcautious.
If you think something is out of place, make a call tothe authorities. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. That’s what the police are there for.
It’s better all the way around if they can be proactive instead of reactive. 6. If you have to defend yourself, aimfor body parts on your attacker that are tender and cannot be strengthenedIf you find yourself in a position where you have to defend yourself, you want to aim wherever it’s going to hurt the most regardless of the attacker’s strength and size. These areas are the eyes, nose, throat, groin and shin. You can’t toughen them up so it doesn’t matter if he’s twice your size; hit him in one of these spots and he’s going to feel some pain.
- Set boundaries and enforce themIf someone comes too close for comfort, tell them and force them to move back and give you your space. Don’t worry about whether you’ll comeacross as short or impolite. If your safety is at stake, it’s no time to be nice. 8. If someone tries to force you to a different location, do not goResearch has shown over and over again that if someone intends to move you, they also intend for you to notmake it out alive. Whatever you do, never get in a vehicle with someone regardlessof what they tell youbecause it isn’t going to be good. 9. Don’t open your house door without knowing who is on the other sideEven if it’s someonewho claims to be from the electric company, if you’re not expecting them then make them wait while you call yourself and verify their identity. The minute you open your door, that person has access not only to your home, but to you and your family as well.