10 Tips For Personal Safety

Awareness. How aware are you of the things surrounding you each day? Being aware and being prepared can be one of the best preventions of a violent crime against you. Statistics show that 1 in 5 women will be sexually assaulted in their lifetime. Beyond that, statistics for murder, abuse and other violent crimes are concerning;

• College age women are 4 times more likely to be assaulted
• Every 2 minutes someone in the United States is sexually assaulted
• One aggravated assault occurs every 35 seconds

Being educated, aware and prepared can save a life. Here are 10 simple tips to help:

1. Be aware of your surroundings. Don't be distracted and don't assume that you are safe - even in the daylight.
2. Inform someone where you are going and when you plan to return. Leave a note at home that tells where you will be. If you can...avoid going alone.
3. When walking to your car - don't overload your hands and arms. That will make you an easy target. Carry your purse on your right shoulder - then you can easily slip into your car.
4. Don't text while walking, pay attention to where you are going and who is around you.
5. Phone do's and don'ts...
• Do talk "your way to the car" - let someone know where you are walking, what is around you and if you see anything suspicious
• Don't be distracted with a deep conversation
6. Have your keys or protection devices in your hand so you don't have to dig for them.
7. If you are approached, be prepared. The panic button on your keychain is a great resource. Always have a plan.
8. Be aware of what is around your car when you get in. Avoid parking next to side door vans. Don't get out to remove flyers from back window.
9. Change your routine - don't jog or walk the same route and the same time every day.
10. Keep a stun gun, pepper spray or other defense device accessible (on a keychain) and be educated on how to use it. It will do you no good at the bottom of your purse.

Watch for more tips provided to you by Mayers Memorial Hospital.