Safety Tips for Women

Every year, 4.5 million women in the U.S. are victims of violence by an intimate partner and 1 out of 6 women has been a victim of rape or attempted rape. These statistics are frightening, but we can help protect ourselves from becoming statistics by having the proper knowledge.

It's a sad truth: women are at greater risk of being attacked than men. But it does not have to be that way. You can take some simple steps to stay safe and alert, so you're always prepared when you need protection the most. In this post, we'll share top safety tips for women that will help keep you safe from attack!

1. Avoid going out alone at night

Plan your route and travel with another person whenever possible. This will help reduce the risk of being attacked by someone who is following you. Try to stay in populated areas, preferably as close to other people as possible when walking alone or waiting at bus stops, especially after dark.

2. Be watchful of the ins and arounds of your vehicle

Always keep your keys ready in your hand before you get into the car so you can quickly unlock them if needed. Also, keep the doors locked and windows shut while driving at all times. Check the rearview mirror when you unlock your car door and before opening it. If someone knocks on a window, do not open the door or get out of the vehicle.

3. Carry a Self-defence device

Carry a non-lethal self-defence device with you at all times. These can be in the form of an air horn to scare away potential attackers (remember using pepper spray/bear spray is prohibited in Canada).

The sound of a personal alarm device will scare away any would-be attacker while also attracting attention from people nearby (so be careful not to set it off too close). You may also carry a whistle and, when needed, blow it as loud as possible.

You can also carry your keys between your fingers when walking alone at night to use as weapons if need be.

4. Stay vigilant, especially when alone.

Stay alert of your surroundings at all times - no matter where you are or what time it is. Keep an eye out for unfamiliar people who may be observing you too closely or following behind but never turning their backs on them altogether - keep enough distance between yourself and any stranger until they have passed you by without stopping.

Avoid wearing headphones when working out, or walking alone, because it limits your ability to hear potential threats. Don't drink too much alcohol or leave your drink unattended.

5. Call for help

Always carry a charged phone on you at all times. Have an emergency contact with your location saved in the contacts list of your phone, and even if you're not sure someone is following you or stalking you, it's best to err on the side of caution.

Or call 911 right away if someone tries to hurt or kill you, but don't wait until something terrible has happened.

6. Obstruct your view of sight

If someone is following behind you, it may be hard for them to see that they need to turn around because whatever obstructed their view of you before will now block theirs too.

For this, you may wear a hat or other headwear outside of the house, especially if you're alone. This will help conceal some of your facial features.

7. Don't engage unless things escalate

If it's not an emergency where there may be danger present, try to avoid confrontation by ignoring them and walking away quickly as possible without making eye contact or engaging in small talk. It may seem rude, but this will prevent any escalation of violence because they won't have access to your body if you don't permit them.

If this person continues to follow after you've ignored their advance for more than 20-30 seconds, call 911 immediately!

8. Consult Security Experts

It's always a good idea to ask an expert for the best security assistance. Security Guards Group is one such agency that offers an array of security services. From concierge security to commercial security, feel free to consult them for all kinds of safety concerns.

Conclusion

Women are always at risk of different kinds of violence and harassment in our society. Women live with the fear that they could be assaulted, raped or even killed by a stranger. That is why women must protect themselves when they go out into public spaces.

We hope that these safety tips for women will help make them more confident and enjoy their life as usual. If you are ever worried about anything, we want you to trust yourself first and know what steps you can take next - whether calling someone, taking expert help or notifying the police.