I’m going to preface this article by stating that I’m not an expert on this topic. Well, not a professional, at least. Everything I write here is coming from my own experience, but I highly suggest discussing these tips with someone in the law enforcement or martial arts field. I’ve taken a couple self-defense classes before, which is where I learned these tips, and I want to share them with other women who don’t have the knowledge.
These tips are not meant to scare you, but to keep you informed about how to be safe while you’re out and about. There are too many sad stories on the news, and by following these easy tips, you can lower your chances of being the next news story. Your children need their mama, so take every precaution necessary to make sure you’re around for a long time.
1. Don’t Play On Your Phone While Walking
What I’ve learned in my self-defense classes is that predators look for women who are distracted. Many of us are practically glued to our phones, but don’t play around on it while you’re walking alone. Not even in the middle of the day in a parking lot. It only takes a few seconds for someone to grab you and take you down. Nothing is so important that it can’t wait another 30 seconds until you get into your car. And when you do, lock the doors right away.
2. Don’t Park Next To Large Vehicles
Want to know a great hiding spot for a man who wants to catch you off guard? Behind an oversized vehicle. Whenever possible, don’t park next to a giant car or truck. It blocks your view so you can’t see if someone is there. And if a guy were to pull you down, you’d then be out of sight too. Make sure you’re always taller than the cars next to yours, to increase your chances of being seen by others, and seeing bad guys who are lurking.
3. Have Your Keys Ready Before You Get To The Car
There are two reasons to have your keys ready and in your hand before you get to the car. First, so that you don’t have to stand and look through your purse in the parking lot, where you aren’t paying attention to your surroundings. And two, so you can quickly throw your hand up and stab an attacker if needed. It’s scary to think about, I know. But attacks on unsuspecting women happen every day.
4. Always Stay Alert
Day or night, with kids or without kids, wherever you are, stay alert. No playing on your phone, no fidgeting with what’s in your shopping bags. Keep your head up and look around so that any potential predator knows you are aware of your surroundings. If they know you’re likely to defend yourself easily, they are far less likely to attempt an attack.
5. Park In Well Lit Spots At Night
It goes without saying, but dark areas are not safe. Not for anyone, but especially (sadly) for women. If you’re out alone at night, park your car in a well lit area. Right under a lamp post is great. If something were to happen, it’s much easier for others to see you, and help if they can. But also, a person looking to take someone down doesn’t usually do it under bright lights where people can see.
6. Take A Self Defense Class
In my opinion, the best way to be prepared to fight off an attacker is to take a self-defense class. Many local police departments offer free classes, and you can sometimes find local martial arts studios that offer them. Give your police department a call and see if they have any information. You’ll be so glad you took the time to learn how to defend yourself.