Security Tips
Safety & The City
• 4 minutes read
For a lady, the walk home after an evening engagement, whether it be an after-work drink, a corporate dinner or a late night at the office, is always met with a bit of apprehension. We have all been there, looking over our shoulder and evaluating the strangers we see. In these cases, it is always good to keep in mind a few tips and do everything you can to be safe.
Be alert. Sounds obvious but many times, we become engrossed in our phones, listening to music, texting, calling or just browsing to pass time. Make sure you are aware of your surroundings. If someone is approaching you that makes you feel uncomfortable, cross the street. If they follow you know something might be up and you may have to take further steps to protect yourself.
Go towards the light. Always walk the well-lit sidewalks, even if it means taking a longer route. You will feel safer being able to see everything and everyone in your path. Being in a well-lit area also deters assaulters but if something were to happen, you are easily seen by others.
Fight. Self-defense classes are offered to train women to be stronger, more confident and better prepared. Sign-up for a class with a friend and learn how to defend yourself. With a class, you will have a plan to fall back on, should someone attempt to attack you. Don’t be afraid to fight back. You have every right to defend yourself.
Drama, drama, drama. If you can get away, run with animation - flail your arms and scream your heart out. If you can’t get away, at least try to scream, cry and make noise. Making a scene draws attention, something an assaulter wants to avoid.
Get the app. There are several apps and sites out there created to protect you. For example, Kitestring reacts when you don’t respond to automated messaging, generated based on notifications you setup prior to heading out for the night. You can learn more on their site. Several apps exist with GPS monitoring or the option to call “someone” or 9-1-1 on your walk home.
In the end, the best way to protect yourself is to not walk home alone. Try to travel in groups or take your male friend up on the offer to walk you home. If no one is around, take a taxi or call an Uber or Lyft. Spending a few extra dollars to keep yourself safe should never be an internal debate. The piece of mind you gain from getting home is worth the investment.
