Author: Debby Einhorn

Escape:  Escape is always your best option.  If you are approached by an attacker who demands that you go with him (by car, into a building, etc).  Your first instinct might seem to follow his orders, but experts say that you should never leave with the attacker.  You are far more likely to be hurt if you go with the attacker rather than run away.  You should run away, throw something at him, make as much noise as you can ( push your safety alarm)- do whatever you can to attract attention.

Awareness:   Is your first line of defense.  Most people think of kicks to the groin and physical punches when they hear the term self-defense.  True self-defense starts before any physical contact.  The first and most important part of self-defense is awareness of your surroundings and your potential attackers likely strategies.  The attackers main strategy is to use the advantage of surprise.  Attackers typically chose targets that appear to be unaware.  By being aware of our surroundings you may avoid a personal attack and remain safe when you are out.

• Plan your route in advance and avoid unlit areas
• Avoid taking the same route every time you go out
• Tell someone where you are going and how long you will be away
• If you think you are being followed, cross to the other side of the road
• If you are being followed, when you approach your home do not enter- go to a neighbors home instead
• Always have your keys ready when you approach your door
• Never use headphones-you need to have all your senses focused
• Carry a cell phone and a personal safety alarm on your belt
• Exercise with a friend

 

• Never give your credit card, Social Security Card, Bank Account information to anyone over the phone.  It is illegal for telemarketers to ask for these numbers to verify a prize or gift
• Don’t fall for anything that sounds too good to be true-a free vacation, sweepstakes prize
• Be aware of individuals claiming to represent companies, consumer organizations, or government agencies that offer to recover lost money from fraudulent telemarketers for free
• Don’t let anyone rush you into signing anything-an insurance policy, sales agreement, or contract.

• Don’t ever give information about yourself over the phone particularly person ID
• Never let an unidentified caller know you are home alone .  If they ask to speak with your spouse, just say they are in the shower, in the yard, etc. instead of saying they are not home indicating that you are home alone
• Use your telephone answering machine for security as well as for convenience.  On your recorded message use the phrase “we” are too busy to take the call instead of “I”

 

• Always make sure you know your visitor’s identity before opening your door
• Have good locks on all doors and windows and use them
• Never leave your house key hidden outside under your doormat, in a flower pot, etc
• Always have your keys and personal safety alarm ready before you get to the door
• Your garage locks should have good locks
• Be a concerned neighbor, if you see a suspicious person car or situation, contact the police
• Always close your blinds or drapes at night
• Mark all your valuable property with your Drive’s License number
• If you live alone, use initials rather than a full name in the telephone directory or mailbox

• Always check your car before getting in to make sure there is no one hiding inside or under it
• At night, only park in lighted areas
• Have your keys and personal safety alarm in your hand and ready before arriving at your car
• Make sure your car is always in good working condition, safe tires and an adequate amount of gasoline planned for your trip
• Do not leave packages or personal items in open view in your car; place them in the trunk
• Keep a spare set of keys with you.  If you lose one set or lock yourself out of your car you will be able to get mobile much more quickly
• If you are in danger of being harmed in your car, start sounding your car horn until assistance arrives

• When leaving home, make sure all doors and windows are locked, including the garage door
• If possible, possible travel with a companion
• Walk purposeful… head up, eyes forward
• Limit your contact with strangers on the street
• At night, travel only well lighted and well traveled streets
• Walk in the middle of the sidewalk
• If you suspect you are being followed, turn and walk quickly in the opposite direction and go to a well lighted and populated area
• If you carry a purse, carry it securely between your arm and your body