Shopping is Great … Just Don’t be the Bait
…The Top 7 Precautions Criminals Want Women to NEVER Learn.
It’s dark out. It’s late. You’ve
closed down the mall with your bags and packages in hand.
You did so good finding the terrific deals and gifts for your
loved ones. And with the kids not around, you were able to
accomplish a so much.
As your running the mental gift list in your
head, you’re not aware that you didn’t park under
any lights … Or who parked next to you. Fumbling with
the shopping bags, half-way through the lot, you start searching
for your keys, and then hear your cell phone go off…
And then … without warning someone approaches you …
Are you at risk? What makes a woman a perfect target? Here
are 7 top tactics and weaknesses criminals who were interviewed
say they look for to take advantage of you. They aren’t
just for the busy holiday season either. It’s all year
round. Don’t fall for them anytime and you can protect
yourself from becoming one of the New Year’s next statistics.
1.Coming up to my vehicle, did I look around - aware of who
is near it? Am I walking my packages in a cart or carrying
them in my hand? Criminals interviewed say they want to attack
the woman who is walking alone and not aware of her surroundings.
Always put shopping bags in a cart. This allows you ample
time to react if someone is approaching you. If you’re
carrying bags, this renders your hands useless to protect
yourself and gives a criminal a bonus. Remember… the
buddy system. Late night shopping always needs to be a ‘girl’s
night out’ affair.
2.Are my keys already in my hand before leaving the store?
Again, awareness plays a huge part. Also, with a key in hand,
it can be a terrific weapon if you’re suddenly grabbed.
3.Am I talking on the cell phone …fixing my hair…
counting my change… writing in the checkbook…and
not paying attention? Paying attention is the key. Take care
of all that ‘stuff’ in the store. NOT in the parking
lot, or outside of the vehicle.
4.Is there anyone loitering around my vehicle… if so…
are they suspicious enough to making me go back into the store?
Don’t think your being silly. NO SUCH THING. Especially
when your safety is on the line. If you’re not comfortable
with walking to your car, ask security to accompany you or
if there isn’t security available, a store manager will
do it – it is their job. That’s what they are getting
paid to do.
5.Is my vehicle in a well-lit area? Is it easily visible
to passer-bys? If I can’t see my car really well, who
can? Criminals say they do not want to be noticed, recognized,
or slowed down in any way. If you’re not easily seen
by others at a mall or store, that makes you a perfect target
for a criminal.
6.If I have automatic keyless entry, did I hit the unlock
button twice … making it easy for someone to get into
my passenger side door? Get into the habit of opening just
your driver’s side door. New technology is wonderful
when you’re with others, loading packages, during the
day. But, at night when your field of vision is limited, don’t
take any chances. Criminals are hoping that you’ll make
their job easier for them.
7.If I am approached by someone – no matter how much
help I need, it’s OK to turn them down. Remember, criminals
will do and say anything they can to gain your trust. DON”T
FALL FOR IT!!! If a stranger wants to help you with your bags,
tell them no, thank you. If they still insist, tell them no
again. Criminal interviews revealed that they will try to
play on a victim heartstrings to get access to the vehicle,
a purse, or for the vehicle keys - and move-in for the attack
when trust is gained and it’s at least expected.
If you are unable to load packages into your vehicle, ask
help from the store – they would be glad to help. It’s
their job.
Want more? To keep up to date with criminal tactics and learn
some of the best self-defense tips available, go to www.michelleannese.com
for more ways to protect yourself and what we need to teach
our mothers and daughters about safety.
About the Author:
Michelle Annese is a 3rd degree Black Belt with 15 years
of experience in the martial arts. She teaches programs and
seminars around the country. Ms. Annese was inducted into
the martial arts hall of fame in 2000. Ms. Annese is the author
of "The Realtor Survival Guide". For more safety strategies
go to www.michelleannese.com
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