Now you, come at me with this banana...
Around this time of year in 1987, I was attacked in the parking lot of my college. A quick reaction with my car keys eventually fended him off, but the terror of that encounter follows me to this day. Even though I’d parked under a light, I had no one with me and was a tiny little woman; I should have been paying a lot more attention than I was.
I strongly believe we all need to be more aware of the perils that exist around us and do everything possible to ensure that we give a thief/attacker/rapist every reason to move on.
Please take a moment to remind yourself of the smart thing to do in an emergency situation...
It never hurts to be careful in this crazy world!
1. Tip from Tae Kwon Do:
The elbow is the strongest point on your body; if you’re close enough to use it, do!
2. Learned from a tourist guide in New Orleans:
If a robber asks for your wallet and/or purse, do not hand it to them.
Toss it far away . . . chances are they’re more interested in your belongings than you.
3. If you are ever thrown into the trunk of a car, kick out the back tail lights, stick your arm out the hole and start waving like crazy. The driver won't see you, but everybody else will. This has saved lives.
4. Women have a tendency to get into their cars and sit, talking on the phone, making lists, etc. A predator could be watching, and you have just provided the perfect opportunity for them to pounce. As soon as you get into your car, lock the doors and leave.
5. A few notes about getting into your car in a parking lot, or parking garage:
A.) Be aware: look around you, into your car, at the passenger side floor, and in the back seat.
B.) If you are parked next to a big van, enter your car from the passenger door. Most serial killers snatch their victims while they're getting into their cars.
C.) Look at the cars parked on either side of your vehicle. If a male is sitting alone in the seat nearest your car, you may want to walk back into the mall, or work, and get a guard/policeman to walk you back out.
6. ALWAYS take the elevator instead of the stairs.
Stairwells are horrible places to be alone and the perfect crime spot. This is especially true at night.
7. If the predator has a gun and you are not under his control, always run!
The predator will only hit you (a running target) 4 in 100 times; even then, it most likely will not hit a vital organ;
and
8. Women tend to always want to be helpful to strangers:
*STOP*
It may get you attacked, raped, or killed. Ted Bundy was a good-looking, well educated man who always played on the sympathies of unsuspecting women. He walked with a cane, or a limp, and often asked 'for help' into his vehicle or with his vehicle, then would abduct his victim.
If you feel any of these suggestions are valid, please forward it on to anyone you feel may benefit from this little refresher course on personal safety.