Tis the Season to Be Jolly and Safe

With the holiday season upon us, there is an increasing need to start thinking of personal safety, especially for the ladies. There is a tendency to get so caught up in finding those perfect gifts, that we become unaware of our surroundings and get a bit careless. Most incidents occur in parking lots. I would like to share a few ideas that I hope will keep you safe.

Buddy System - A robber will think twice before approaching two people, so, try to shop with another adult. There is a tendency to take the children shopping, but, a woman with small children is way more vulnerable because children require a lot of attention and the criminal will take advantage of your distraction. If getting a babysitter is an impossibility, then, a buddy can be a set of much needed extra eyes.

Parking Safety - Avoid parking garages. If it is evening, try to park under a light and as close to the entrance as you can. Waiting 5 minutes for that golden spot can be rewarding. The store isn't going anywhere, relax and give a few shoppers time to leave. Don't park near large vans. I know it sounds paranoid, but, this article is about being safe. If you can't be seen being robbed, then, no one can come to your aide. Plus, a criminal is apt to have a large vehicle, if he has abducting on his agenda.

No Extra Baggage - Leave your purse at home or in the trunk. Debit cards are the way to go. If you don't have a checking account, buy a rechargeable Visa or Mastercard. There are a few small fees, but, they are much better to have than a lot of cash. If you do carry cash, don't put all your money in the same place. When you are at the cash register, believe me the criminal is standing back watching; taking note of who is getting large amounts of change back. He really doesn't want your purchases so much as your cash. But, he will take both given the opportunity.

If you put your purse in the trunk, try not doing it in the parking lot of the mall or store. Do this beforehand. Don't tempt the criminal who may think that not only is your purse in the trunk, but, purchased merchandise.

Don't tempt the devil - Don't leave money, purse and/or purchases visible. Even if you cover them with a blanket or coat, the criminal will still be tempted to break your windows just to get at your property.

Getting into your car - Most stores will beef up security, ask him to see you to your car. As you leave the store, have keys in hand. Check your surroundings as you go to your car. We all forget to look under our vehicles; you can do this as you approach. Get in the car and lock your doors BEFORE you do anything else. Don't get caught off guard rambling for keys and trying to buckle up. You can do these little things once you are locked in, with the keys in the ignition; ready to start and leave. If someone does try to get in, use your horn, start your car and get to safety.

Home Court - The game isn't over until you are safely in your home. When removing your purchases don't be tempted to leave your doors unlocked until you get the other packages inside. Lock your doors and trunk. And again, be aware of your surroundings. Watch for odd cars and people who you don't recognize. If you don't feel comfortable, leave your purchases in the trunk until later. You can always remove them when you are not alone, or when familiar neighbors are around.

Self Defense - Have an idea of how you can defend yourself should someone approach you. Always cooperate with the robber, your property isn't worth losing your life. But, if he gets physical, then, you will have to do the same. Carrying mace is only effective if you can get to it and know how to use it. So, keep it at hand and ready to use. Before you leave a store, you can place you keys in your hand in such a way that you can scratch or gouge your assailant's eyes. If you don't have a weapon, use your hands and feet. Kick, scratch, punch. Then, RUN, scream and shout. You're not Rambo; you have nothing to prove. Get to safety and get help.

Know Your Car - If by chance your assailant manages to get you into your trunk, know where the trunk pull is. Newer cars have a safety mechanism, whereas, if locked in the trunk you can pop the trunk and get out. Break the back lights. If it's evening, the chances are greater that the police will pull him over if those lights aren't working. Find a way to signal other motorists. You may be able to pop out the back lights and stick something out of the hole to get someone's attention. If all else fails, find a weapon and give your assailant a nice surprise should he open the trunk again. Your main objective is to survive.

Lastly, don't let stereotypes cloud your judgment. Remember, evil comes in all shapes and sizes. He could be any race or nationality, dressed in jeans or a suit, young or old, and HE very well could be a SHE. So, trust your instincts, if a situation doesn't feel right, then, distance yourself from it and get to a safe place. And most of all, be safe and enjoy a blessed holiday season.