Self Defense Products, Stun Guns, Pepper Sprays, Personal Alarms

Here are some tips on how to stay safe while you are on the street:

You need to stay tuned in to your surroundings and who is around you wherever you are on the street, in an office building or shopping mall, driving, waiting for a bus or a cab.
Always trust your first gut instinct. If something or someone makes you uncomfortable, avoid the person or leave.

Know the neighborhoods where you live and work. Check out the locations of police and fire stations, public telephones, hospitals, and restaurants, or stores that are open late. Always have a mental plan for escape.

At night/or on foot, stick to well-lighted, well-traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts through bushy or wooded areas, parking lots, or alleys.

Don’t flash money or other tempting targets like jewelry or clothing. Just a note: one of my dear friend’s daughter has a very generous husband who bought her a huge 8 carot diamond ring. She drives through a seedy part of Los Angeles on her way to her job. Sometimes she drives with her left hand, the one with the “rock” on it, hanging out her window. I told her if she insists on wearing that ring, to at least turn the ring so the stone is not exposed.

Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket, not a back pocket. Carry only what is necessary and try not to keep currency and credit cards all in one place. Don’t carry more than one credit card.

Don’t wear shoes or clothing that restrict your movements.

Have your car or house key in hand before you reach the door. It would be a good idea to have a keychain pepper spray or an electronic whistle on the keychain, just in case.

Try to use automated teller machines in the daytime. Have your card in hand and don’t approach the machine if you’re uneasy about people nearby. Better yet, only use the ATM machines inside of grocery store, malls, or gas stations.

If you think someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk toward an open store, restaurant, or lighted house. If someone harasses you, don’t be embarrassed. Loudly say “Leave me alone! Someone call the police! Get away!”

Here are some tips on staying safe in your car:

Keep your car in good running condition. Make sure there’s enough gas to get where you’re going and back.

Always roll up the windows and lock car doors, even if you’re coming right back. Check inside and out before getting in.

Avoid parking in isolated areas. Be especially alert in lots and underground parking garages. Use extra caution if a van is parked next to your vehicle, especially on your drivers side.

If you think someone is following you, don’t head home. Drive to the nearest police or fire station, gas station, or other open business to get help.

If all goes wrong and you are accosted by a robber, don’t resist. Give up your property. Don’t risk your life.
Report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions can help prevent others from being victims.

Be proactive and make your neighborhood and working place safer by reporting broken street lights, cleaning up parks and vacant lots, and lobbying local government for better lighting in public places. If the “good guys” did more of this the low life scumbags would not be taking over neighborhoods and turning them into cesspools.

Initiate a block watch program in your neighborhood by contacting your local crime prevention unit.

Be safe, not sorry.

Rosie