I don’t usually post twice in one day but in light of the recent carjacking in our area, my sweet wife asked me to put together some safety tips for moms, dads and everyone in general. As I mentioned before, I’m one of the martial arts instructors at the American Karate Academy so with that, here are some tips that will hopefully keep you safe during the shopping season and beyond.
Please visit Safety Tips for Kids for the Holidays here as a precursor to this post.
Before You Park
Be sure to park in a well-lit area. Look for cameras on posts nearby if there are any. Try to find a lamp post to park next to.
Take an Inventory of Your Surroundings
If you’re walking to your car focus on scanning the area before you even start walking. Keep your head up and make eye contact with the people you come across! Take a roundabout path to your vehicle and make sure that there is no one lurking between cards or behind. If you see someone close to your car who is taking too long to get into theirs, wait for them to leave before you set out or ask someone to escort you to your car. Never be afraid of being an encumbrance to store personnel. I’m sure your family will greatly appreciate it. Before you leave the building, pull out your keys (I keep a large metal ring on mine) and do not stand by your car door while digging for keys. Once you’re in, lock the doors! That should be the first thing you do before you even set down that mocha latte!
If by Chance the Carjacker Does Reach You
Do everything in your power to not get into the car because once you’re in you are in his hands. If it is clear that the assailant does not have a gun then you have the advantage. Throw your purse or bags in a direction away from your car. If he wants money then you’ve just thrown him the bait that he will hopefully chase after it and leave the area. If that doesn’t work and he’s still after you, while you are screaming take your keys and ram them directly into the assailants eyes or ears. As mentioned in my previous post, the groin is a good target. Also, do not allow the assailant to get you on the ground. That is the last place you want to be! Kick, scream and poke until he gets the message.
Remember that steaming hot mocha latte? Use it!
Above All, Be Prepared to Flee
In the heat of the moment it’s easy to forget that we have the option of running. Figuring out a way to escape should be your first objective. Run to the nearest public place and find help. Leave your bags, car, purse and all of your belongings and put as much distance between you and your attacker as possible. Don’t talk or argue with the assailant. Simply leave!
These are tips that will hopefully pre-empt a carjacking but are in no way fireproof. There are plenty of resources on the internet. I suggest you cross reference those and gather as much information as possible on the subject. Finally, the best prevention is to be aware of your surroundings at all times and have a plan to find safety and leave everything behind should something occur.
Be safe.
Chat soon!
~L
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