Re: Feeling unsafe when on walks

esmeraldagooch · ‎03-10-2010

I would take another woman along with you. Even if you got a weapon, someone coming up behind you could disarm you. I have used a number of items to feel safe, some work better than others. Mind you I have been attacked by a pitbull in the past.

10sluvr · ‎03-10-2010

also, don't wear headphones, so you can hear what's going on. personal alarms, maybe.

Witchy Woman · ‎03-15-2010

Not 5 minutes from my house is a lovely walking/biking trail. When it first opened, I rode it from end to end many times without much concern. It was absolutely wonderful to have an area away from traffic that went through farmland and woods.

Fast forward a couple of years and a murder took place on another trail about 6 miles from my home. A women taking a late afternoon run was attacked and murdered by a man. It was random and a robbery, but it really ruined my ability to ride or walk any trail by myself again.

I feel sad and defeated sometimes that women, especially, must always be on guard. Oh, I can still ride the trail, but now I'm nervous and always watching.

All the suggestions given here are good ones and ones I've considered myself. But wouldn't it be wonderful to just not have to worry.

I know, I'm dreaming ${#emotions_dlg.sad}$

happygolfcartrider · ‎05-10-2013

Just being in public is unsafe. I heard of a woman in a Subway that had a gun put to her head and was robbed right there in the booth.

It is a shame what is happening right here in our country where we no longer feel safe in any environment.

Don't worry, be Happy!

nekodaisy · ‎03-10-2010

I felt that way at one time to about my dog. He was a licker, tail wagger and loved every dog he came into contact with.

One day we went out for a walk and got cornered down the street by another dog and he got in front of me and never wagged his tail and followed my lead at every step. I am so glad he kept his cool because I think if he would have tried to love on that dog he would have been killed. Your dog would probably do the same thing if put in a situation like that with either a person or another animal.

I could see my house from where we got cornered but it took us over a half an hour to get home.

151949 · ‎03-09-2010

I used to have a large dog who was very friendly and sweet but once when we were at the boat launch a drunk pushed me down I was shocked that my dog leapt onto him and knocked him down and stood on top snarling until I pulled her off. You could be surprised by how protective dogs are.

Lacey1 · ‎03-09-2010

I am on another forum that has a majority of men members. Many of them are ex-military, and you can imagine what they ALWAYS recommend for personal protection.

I have done home health nursing and have had many in-services about personal protection. They said that carrying a concealed weapon was a waste of time. The bad guys have been at this game longer than you. They aren't going to walk up to you in a well-lit area, and ask for your valuables. They will quietly come up behind you, disable you with a knife or brick, and pick your pockets, (or worse) after they render your harmless.

So, What have I learned. Don't put yourself in a potentially dangerous situation. If you have to alter your schedule-do it. Don't look like an easy mark, the bad guys don't want a hassle. If there's a choice between little old lady and a biker-whom do you think they will target?

Some of the tips. Carry a fake set of keys and a fake wallet-If you sense that someone wants to rob you-throw the fakes as far as you can, run and scream.

Carry a small, loud alarm or use your car key fob,(if you're close enough to your car).

Don't be afraid to scream, "He's got my baby!" if someone looks like a threat to you. That get's more attention than just, 'Help'.

Don't carry a purse, put what you need in your pocket. Use your phone only in a secure area. Don't be flashing a lot of jewelry.

Always look under your car and in the back seat before you get in. Lock your doors after you start moving. If you're at a light and someone dangerous looking approaches your car, run the light as safely as you can to get to a safe spot.

If you break down on a lonely road, make sure you're phone is charged and call for help. Never accept help from a stranger. Yell thru the closed window that police are on the way.

Make sure your car is always in peak condition to avoid the breakdown scenario. You CAN drive on a flat tire if you fear for your safety-you may damage the wheel but your safety is more important.

Above all: Follow your instincts, if something doesn't feel right-get out. Use common sense, stay out of potentially bad situations. Be aware of exit strategies in all situations, even if you're in the grocery store or at your grandchildren's school play.