It cannot be emphasised enough that being aware of one’s environment is vital.
This is a stern warning from Jason Mordecai, managing director of Seven Arrows Security, as many movements within SA aim to make women more aware and empower them so that they do not become a crime statistic.
“If you are alert while shopping, walking to your car or driving into your home, a criminal will not be able to attack you as easily.
“Being aware of one’s surroundings takes away the advantage of an attacker.”
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With this in mind, Seven Arrows Security is encouraging women to take the following safety tips to heart:
• When moving through public spaces avoid focusing on your cellphone or keeping it in your hand. Rather keep it out of view and focus on your surroundings.
• Carry yourself with confidence. It is believed that posture can benefit one in many ways. In this instance, creating a feeling of confidence and awareness tells would-be attackers that you are aware and not someone who will easily become a victim.
• There is safety in numbers. This is a good rule. Try and find a travel buddy or a travel group for walking to work or early morning jogging sessions. If you must walk alone stay on busy roads and not near deserted areas such as greenbelts.
• If you feel you are being followed, keep moving. Go to a busy public area and call for help.
• Switch up your running routes. Criminals who learn routines have the upper hand. Take this away from them.
• If you are coming home late at night ask your security company for a “tuck in” escort service or where possible have someone waiting for you.
• Carry pepper spray, but make sure you keep this in an easy-to-reach location. A criminal will not wait for you to dig in your handbag to find the pepper spray.
• Trust your instincts. If someone or something makes you feel uncomfortable remove yourself from the situation.
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“Remember criminals will often take the path of least resistance,” said Mordecai.
“They count on taking advantage of the circumstances and your goal is to eliminate as many of these circumstances as possible.”
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