We asked Atlas Security Community Development Manager (Port Elizabeth) and Ambassador for Women Empowerment, Bernadette Nel- Naude to help us with some important safety tips.
Here are some of her key pointers to staying aware and limiting your vulnerability to attacks.
- First and most important thing to remember is that there is no such thing as asking for it, it’s 100% the rapists fault.
- The best thing that we can do as women is to raise men who respect women.
- The majority of rapes are committed by a person that the victim knows.
- Women need to be aware of social media. Do not put detailed information about yourself on social media platforms that can be used by robbers or rapists to harm you.
- Awareness is always your first line of defence.
- It is important that you reduce your exposure to potentially being victimized i.e.
- Rapists tend to attack when women appear to be walking around aimlessly and they look vulnerable
- Rapists are predators and will always target women who look weak and unable to defend themselves (easy targets)
- Be assertive when moving around
- When walking around late at night stay in groups as there is safety in numbers
- Stay on pedestrian paths and avoid shortcuts through buildings
- Always let a family member or friend know your destination and estimated time of arrival so that if you are abducted, someone will start looking for you.
- Parking lots are one of the most dangerous areas for woman so try and park as close as possible to your destination
- Get in your vehicle and lock your doors first before doing anything else
- Park in well-lit areas
- Never open your car via remote till you physically reach the door, as you will not always see someone slip into the backseat on the other side of your vehicle
- If walking in the street, walk facing traffic so that you can see any oncoming threat or danger
- Report any suspicious activity or person around your home or workplace immediately
- If you see something, say something
- Trust your instincts! Listen to your fears they are usually right!
- There is an alarming increase in the number of date rapes so be alert when attending any functions
- Protect yourself by never accepting drinks from anyone you don’t know or don’t know well enough
- Be assertive. If someone is giving you unwanted attention tell them to back off firmly
- Stay in groups
- Avoid new types of alcohol
- Make sure your cell phone is fully charged when going out at night
- Get your own drink and try to stick to drinks that are sealed
- Keep your keys on you!
- Woman need to back each other up! If you see a woman in need help go to her aid. It could be you or your sister, daughter or mother.
