Monthly Archives: April 2014

Personal Safety Tips – Part 3

Most of us leave our home at least once each day.  Whether it’s driving to the grocery store or going on your daily walk, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings.  By using simple precautions, you can safely enjoy the time you spend outside of your home.

If You are Attacked:

  • Noise is your most immediate defense.  Not only will sound attract attention to you and make your location known, but it may also cause the would-be attacker to flee.
  • If possible, run in the direction of help.  An assailant usually will not engage in a pursuit because it could increase the possibility of detection or apprehension.
  • If the assailant demands your wallet, purse, keys, or money, give it to him or her.  Don’t risk your life.
  • Never leave the site of the attack when prompted by an attacker.  Don’t believe an assailant that says he or she won’t hurt you if you leave with him or her.  Stay where you are, fight and scream.

While these tips can be helpful, they do not guarantee your safety.  Immediately contact the police if you detect any suspicious behavior.

Personal Safety Tips – Part 2

Most of us leave our home at least once each day.  Whether it’s driving to the grocery store or going on your daily walk, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings.  By using simple precautions, you can safely enjoy the time you spend outside of your home.

Driving and Parked Car Precautions:

  • Before heading to your destination, make sure you have enough gas to get you there and back.  You don’t want to be stranded alone.
  • If you feel like you are being followed, drive to the nearest gas station or open business.  Do not drive home until you are completely sure you are alone.
  • Roll up the windows and lock all car doors every time you leave your car.
  • When you approach your car, have the key ready.
  • Avoid parking in isolated areas, especially at night.  If possible, park your car under a lamppost.

Coming up in Part 3: If You are Attacked

Personal Safety Tips – Part 1

Most of us leave our home at least once each day.  Whether it’s driving to the grocery store or going on your daily walk, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings.  By using simple precautions, you can safely enjoy the time you spend outside of your home.

Walking/Running Precautions:

  • Take a friend (even a furry one).  Walking a dog, especially one inclined to bark at strangers, is better than venturing out alone.
  • Take your cell phone with you so that you can call 911 if you see something suspicious.
  • Let a friend or family member know where you’re going and when you plan to return.
  • Avoid walking too closely to bushes or areas with any kind of tall overgrowth.
  • Stay attentive to your surroundings, and if listening to music, keep the volume at a low level so you can hear what’s going on around you.
  • Only run or walk in familiar areas.
  • Use caution when out at night.  If you are out after dark, always carry a flashlight with fresh batteries.
  • Always walk on the sidewalk facing traffic.  Facing traffic makes it more difficult for someone to drive up behind you without being noticed.

Coming up in Part 2: Driving and Parked Car Precautions