Be Unpredictable

We’re all creatures of habit, but changing them up can do wonders for foiling a bad situation. Anyone looking to do you harm will know or pay attention to, your routine.  And they only need to get lucky once to catch you alone or off-guard.  So, when possible:

• Reschedule recurring events/appointments

• Shop at different stores during different days and times

• Switch up your “usual” bar or restaurant

• Get off at different bus stops

• Vary your route and modes of transportation

• Switch daycare locations

• Leave/arrive at different times for frequently visited places

Not all of these may be possible. But if you can make a habit of changing your routine when and where possible, you’ll add extra safety into your day.

Out and About Safety Tips

• Familiarize yourself with all exits and windows. If possible, know where they lead should you need to use them.

• Carry inexpensive security items such as panic alarms and pepper spray—effective for thwarting attackers and drawing attention—and keep them readily accessible in your hand.

• Travel in groups or with someone else whenever possible.

• Mentally rehearse “what if” scenarios and envision escape, barricade, and self-defense/fight plan.

• Look for items that may be used as improvised weapons

• Establish “safe haven” areas that can be used to escape and/or are easy to barricade.

• DO NOT post on social media when and where you go

• Ensure your smartphone location setting is set to OFF

• Loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes help you move faster in an emergency.

• If you suspect you are being followed, attempt to make eye contact with the individual. This demonstrates that you are aware of your surroundings and not a “soft target”. This also subtly lets the person following you know that you are aware and have a visual of their face

• If you feel like someone is following you, circle, “double back,” go into stores, and/or stop frequently. If the individual is mirroring your movements then chances are, they are following you.

• Occasionally glance behind you to take in your surroundings.

FACT: Abusive individuals may try to use your friends and family to find out how and where to contact you. It’s a good idea to tell your neighbors, friends, and family what is going on. This may be hard or uncomfortable, but it’s the right thing to do for your safety.

Remember, you are not to blame! You should never be ashamed to tell others if you are being victimized. 

At Home

• Change your locks if possible. If not, add a bolt lock—readily available at the hardware store.

• Use inexpensive items to keep windows and sliding doors locked such as blocks of wood.

• Every night, check that all doors and windows are locked. Use a chair to wedge against a doorknob if necessary.

• Have a security system installed if you can.

• If comfortable, keep a defense weapon—accessible only to you—ready and within reach.

• Rehearse options—escaping, barricading, and fighting—so that they become second nature to you should you need them.

• Be aware that no one has followed you as you approach your home. Some attackers will wait until you are at your door and force themselves in.

• Look for any unusual signs as you approach your home.

• Have someone meet you at your home if you feel worried or uneasy.

While Driving or in Your Car

• Always leave ample space between you and the car in front of you. Look for escape routes when stopping at a light.  

• Vary your routes whenever possible.

• Keep watch in your mirrors. If you suspect someone is following you, stay in motion and circle the block to confirm.

• If you are being followed, immediately call 911 and stay in populated areas as you make your way to a police station.

• Always park in well-lit areas.

• STAY OFF YOUR PHONE, especially when approaching your car or when you first get in. Being on your phone completely erases your situational awareness.

• Immediately get in your car when leaving a location, lock doors, and drive away. If you MUST use your phone, quickly scan your surroundings after you have locked your doors.

• Whenever you stop, leave your car in drive with your foot on the brake. Use your mirrors to scan your surroundings before getting out of the car, especially if you’re at a drive-through (ATMs, fast food, etc.)

• Scan the area before you get out of your car, as well. Leave the vehicle running and in drive with foot on the brake as you do this. When satisfied that all is well, place the vehicle in park, turn off the car, and exit.

If You Are Approached or Attacked—Escape is Your Goal

• Strike hard to the face with an open palm repeatedly and furiously.

• Aim for the eyes/forehead area with pepper spray.

• Drop anything in your hands that cannot be used to defend yourself or can hinder escape.

• Use your panic alarm if possible.

• Do NOT stay and fight. Get away as soon as you’ve created the space to do so

• Escaping = winning.