Tips to Keep Your Guard Up and Stay Safe

When you are out grabbing a quick walk in the evening or walking to your car after an afternoon of shopping, usually your defenses are down and you are not as aware of your surroundings as what you should be. In a second, someone can come up and attempt to attack you.

Women are more susceptible to an attacker because they are smaller and easy to sneak up on. Most people are preyed upon when they are in a in a hurry and not paying attention. Here are some tips to help keep you safe when you are out.

1. When you go outside, whether by yourself or with friends, you should always pay attention to your environment.
2. Do not walk or jog with headphones on. You won't hear a person or vehicle coming up behind you.
3. Take a second and look around to see if anyone suspicious is near you.
4. Always keep your head up and keep your eyes looking around for any activity.
5. Do not look down and fidget in your purse or pocket because it makes you look distracted.
6. Always have your keys in your hand.  
7. Pick up a small container of pepper spray that fits on your key chain and make sure you know how use it in case of emergency.
8. Remember to park your car in a well-lit area near other cars.
9. When you get to your car, before you get in look in the front and back seat to make sure no one is waiting in your car that should not be there.
10. Lock your car door as soon as you get in. If you are distracted putting on a seat belt or playing with the radio, someone can pull your door open if it is not locked.
11. If out for a jog or walk, try to vary your route so that you do not become predictable. You don't want anyone to figure out your route and wait for you.
12. Never stop to help a stranger who asks for assistance on the side of the road. If you happen to be walking and someone asks for assistance, offer to call police to come help them and continue on your way.
13. Take a cell phone with you where ever you go.
14. Always let someone know where you are going if you are going by yourself.
15. If someone is giving out samples of anything in a parking lot, do not stop. If they persist, tell them you are not interested.
16. Get security to walk with you to your car if you are uncomfortable or if it is dark.