6 Simple Steps You Can Take Now to Protect Yourself and Loved Ones
Safety and security are paramount in today's world, whether you're traveling solo around your neighborhood or exploring new destinations globally. Awareness and proactive measures are key to staying safe and empowered, especially in the face of gender violence and other threats. Here are six simple steps you can take to enhance your personal safety:
1. Cultivate Proactive Strategies
Start by enhancing your situational awareness. Educate yourself about potential risks and crime trends in the areas you frequent. Whether you're out during the day or night, always lock your doors and remain vigilant of your surroundings. Remember, awareness is your first line of defense.
2. Utilize Preparedness Tools
Equip yourself with tools designed to keep you safe. Consider using a handheld or wearable safety device that discreetly notifies your loved ones when you're in need of help. One of my favorite safety gadgets is a mini alert alarm, which can send an SMS of your location to your emergency contact with a message you need help with just a push of a button. You don’t have to reach for your phone. Instead, you would quickly push a button on your alert device, and then a preset message would be sent to your selected emergency contacts in your phone. This is made possible when paired up with Bluetooth on your phone. Other features you may find on the personalized alert device are a loud alarm with 140 decibels—and light features.
3. Opt for Protective Accessories
Instead of carrying a purse, opt for a Stash Bandz or similar accessory. These comfortable money belts securely hold your essentials such as cellphones, keys, credit cards, and money, reducing the risk of purse snatching and keeping your belongings close at hand.
4. Learn Self-Defense Techniques
Empower yourself by learning self-defense techniques. Programs like the R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense) system offers courses tailored for women of all ages and abilities. These classes provide education, awareness, and practical self-defense skills to enhance your safety and confidence.
5. Develop Backup Plans
Prepare for "What if" scenarios by developing backup plans to reach safety. Consider various situations and outline steps to take in each scenario. Discuss safety measures with friends and ensure everyone in your group has a safety plan in place.
6. Foster Open Communication
Engage in conversations about safety with your loved ones. Share knowledge, resources, and strategies to deter, alert, detect, and defend against potential threats. Together, we can create a safer environment and combat gender violence.
Conclusion
By implementing these six simple steps—enhancing awareness, utilizing preparedness tools, opting for protective accessories, learning self-defense techniques, developing backup plans, and fostering open communication—you can take proactive measures to protect yourself and your loved ones. Empowerment begins with education and preparedness. Let's work together to promote safety and security in our communities and beyond.
About the Author:
Carrie Pasquarello, CEO and Co-Founder of Global Secure Resources Inc., is a victim advocate with extensive experience in international security and risk mitigation. Drawing from over a decade of living overseas and her experience with the State Department, Carrie has dedicated her career to helping others navigate personal safety. Her company specializes in security protocols and business continuity strategies, with a focus on protecting individuals and their loved ones. Carrie is a certified Women-Owned business and continues to advocate for legislation to enhance safety measures worldwide.
This blog post offers practical tips and insights to empower readers to prioritize personal safety and security in their daily lives. Each step provides actionable advice to help individuals become more proactive and prepared in the face of potential threats.
