Are you a woman and often find yourself traveling alone and without protection?
No matter how strong you think you are, a couple of male predators have the upper hand if they wish to grab you, hurt you, or kidnap you. It’s a sad reality that happens every single day.
With the tips below, I hope to save you from becoming the next local newspaper story.
When Traveling by Subway
1) Stay in a Populated Car – If you are traveling by subway during the off-peak hours, you might have the option to get on an empty car. I urge you not to take this option. By being alone, this only makes yourself more susceptible to harassment. Do your best to choose a car that is populated by both men and women and you will be much safer.
2) Stay Close to the Station Booth – The rules of staying near the general population holds true when waiting for your next subway car too. Stay as close as you can to many men and women. Avoid waiting in an empty area where no one would notice an abduction.
When Walking Through the City
3) Stay Focused – If you are walking through the city late at night, you need to stay focused and be aware of your surroundings. This means no cell phone or earbuds. You must be 100% alert so you don’t become an easy target.
4) Keep a Direct Route – When walking from point A to point B, don’t stray through areas that may be dangerous, like a dark and empty park, or a generally poorly lit area. Map out a route that is safe and move quickly.
When Taking a Taxi
5) Find a Certified Taxi – If you feel unsafe traveling in any other fashion, then it might be a good idea to hop in a cab, but be certain that it is a city certified taxi. “Gypsy taxies” are often ok, but when you’re a single attractive woman with no other passengers, they can suddenly turn unsafe.
When Driving Yourself
6) Keep Your Radio Volume Down – When traveling through the bad area of town, you don’t want to draw any extra attention to yourself. This means keep the radio down. Without loud noises, dangerous persons will have a smaller chance of taking notice that you are alone in your car.
7) Keep the Doors Locked – Thankfully, many cars today automatically lock after you start the ignition. But, if you have an older car, make a conscious effort to lock the doors yourself. This will keep unwanted intruders out of your car when you are stopped at the intersection.
8) Know Where your Service Centers Are – If something should happen to your vehicle, you will want to know where your closest service centers and tyre stores are. The absolute worst thing you can do is ask someone for help on the street. This lets them know you are vulnerable and without many options. This could lead to an unfortunate attack.
In Any Circumstance
9) Never Flash Your Cash – Many women are attacked because the predator wants money, and preferably cash. If you walk down the street counting your hundreds, there is a pretty good chance that someone will target you. Keep your cash away from people’s eyes.
10) Carry Mace Always – If you are focused and aware, then chances are you will be able to see an attacker before he/she reaches you. If you have the time, you can pull out your mace and cause temporary injury to your attacker, which will allow you to escape.