Some safety tips for women. This article could save your life! Everyday, women (and men) all over the world take unnecessary risks with their safety. The majority of the time, their mind set is that, "nothing is going to happen to me."
Sadly, all too often these women find out differently. Areas often over looked as hazardous areas are: Laundry mats - A surprising number of women will go late night and alone, to these places. Their reasons are often that is when they are quieter, cooler or even just a time to escape from the kids at home. These places are becoming more automated. No employee or security is on the premises. Public restrooms - It is a common misconception that men are the only ones to sexually assault, rob, or commit murder. This is false. Not only do women do these things, they often work as a decoy for a male in hiding. Paneled van - The old fashioned, high walled vans are dangerous. It only takes a split second for an assailant to open the cargo door and pull someone in. Be cautious anytime one is parked next to your vehicle. High vehicles - A common ploy is for an assailant to lie beneath one of these and wait for a victim to stand still while opening their car door. At this time a knife is used to cut the tendons and muscles in the area behind the ankles causing the victim to drop to the ground and be unable to regain their feet to run. It might feel silly to check under the car next to yours but silly beats dead any day. Signs of entry - When it is obvious that there has been someone in your home, or office, STOP! TURN AROUND! LEAVE! Call from somewhere else. Curiosity may have killed the cat; the satisfaction of finding an assailant inside will not bring you back. Routines - Try not to set them. It is very easy to get into this typical routine. Take the kids to school by 8 AM and drop by the post office by 8:15 Stop by the nursing home to see grandma at 9 and then come home to feed and take care of animals. These routines are very easy for an assailant to observe and anticipate. Children and car seats - Check out your surroundings before reaching inside with your child. Imagine for a moment how vulnerable a person is when their hands are full of baby with three quarters of the body, leaned over and restricted inside the car. Office/home - NEVER admit to being the only one in. Think how alone the phrase, "I'm sorry, they won't be back until 2:30" sounds. If your office isn't equipped with an alarm or even simple pepper spray, speak to your employer. Remember, there is nothing in the office that is worth losing your life over. If it is a robbery, give them the money and send them on their way. If the assailant is interested in more than robbery, keep your head and look for possible weapons around you. Things such as pencils, scissors, telephones, potted plants, and anything else you can get a hold of. Jogging trails - Joggers are great at setting routines. They also enjoy the cooler evening and night temperatures. Add to that, headphones and music that dulls the senses. Whenever possible, take the dog, recruit a friend or put a leash on the spouse and drag them off the couch. Don't go jogging alone in secluded areas. When you do go, try to keep one of the personal alarms with you. Even things like a rolled up newspaper, can make an effective weapon. Sixth sense - LISTEN TO THIS! If there is a nagging thought of not entering a house, garage, or building, don't do it. If something tells you to look around, walk faster or even run, then listen to it. There is usually a reason. Is it not better for strangers to wonder if you're "odd" than to end up in a ditch? A single candle can illuminate an entire room. A true friend lights up an entire lifetime. Thanks for the bright lights of your friendship. --~--~---------~--~----~------------~-------~--~----~ Access the Recipes And More list archives at: http://www.mail-archive.com/recipesandmore%40googlegroups.com/ Visit the group home page at: http://groups.google.com/group/RecipesAndMore -~----------~----~----~----~------~----~------~--~---
