10 Safety Tips for City Women

1. Lock Your Doors

   For many people, this idea would seem like obvious common sense; however, apparently it is not so common after all. Michael Moore showed how easy it was to just walk into people’s homes due to unlocked doors, and a similar stunt was done by a news station in Canada. As if that wasn’t warning enough, a man in London, Ontario had decided that he should spy on young women as they slept. He didn’t even have to break in! The man simply walked into unlocked homes/dorms/apartments and watched the women sleep. Isn’t that warning enough?

   Whether you live in the boonies or in the middle of Manhattan, just lock your doors.

2. Avoid Parking Near Large Vehicles

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   This is especially true if you are a smaller person in stature. It may seem very paranoid, but try to avoid parking near large vehicles, such as vans and large trucks. The purpose of this is so that you can be clearly seen by passersby and because it’s very easy to be pulled into a large vehicle.

3. Carry a Whistle or Air Horn

   While carrying mace or pepper spray is illegal in many places, you can still carry whistles or horns. This will allow you to attract attention if you are in trouble.

4. Don’t Walk Alone at Night

   This isn’t to say that it’s good to walk alone during the daytime, but you are more visible during the day. If you have to walk around at night, travel with a group of friends. Most attackers look for an easy target, so being in a group deters the attacker.

5. Take a Self Defense Class

   Taking a class in self defense will teach you how to increase your chances of escaping an attack. It’s worth the cost.

6. Yell, “Fire!” Instead of “Help!”

   It has been proven that people would rather just look away if there is something shady going on. If you scream for help, chances are nobody will listen. If you yell something about a fire, the risk of being involved is minimized and someone else may be more apt to help you.

7. Do Not Approach Slowing Vehicles

   If you’re walking and a vehicle slows down beside you, do not approach it! It doesn’t matter if the person/people inside ask you for directions, tell you that they’ve lost a kid, etc. The same rules apply as did in kindergarten; don’t talk to strangers.

8. If You’re Walking Alone, Look Aggressive

   This concept can sometimes be difficult or feel awkward, but it’s a great way to prevent an attack. If you look strong and aggressive, people will be more likely to leave you alone. Make unfaltering, aggressive eye contact with anyone who approaches you. Stand up straight and look strong. You don’t want to appear to be an easy target.

9. Park Near the Door

   If you can, park close to the door. Avoid stairwells and underground parking if possible. Have your keys out and ready before leaving your vehicle. If you’re getting into your vehicle, lock your doors immediately and get moving. You can open mail at home.

10. Tie Your Hair Back

    Free flowing hair and baggy clothes make it easy for an attacker to latch on. Try knotting your hair into a bun or other short style to take away this advantage.

There are many more ways to ensure your safety, such as taking your garbage out the morning of pick-up, having someone walk you to your car, etc. You can contact the local police for your area for more ideas on how to stay safe.