These safety tips can protect you and your family when in a public place, such as a parking lot or parking garage. The good news is violent crime is down, as reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  One of the reasons could be that people are more aware of crime than they were in the past.

Here are a few precautions you can take to avoid being one of those unlucky few who are attacked.

When leaving a store or office building, there are some things that you can do to protect yourself from becoming a victim of crime.  When leaving a building, always have your keys in your hand.  There are two reasons to do this.

1.    On most keys there is an alarm button.  You should become familiar with its location, because in an emergency, it should become an automatic response to hit the button.  When walking to your car in an empty parking lot or when you are alone, you want to have your finger on the button.

2.    The key becomes a weapon.  Approaching your car, move the key between the index and middle finger.  In this position, the key can be used to strike the eyes of an attacker, but a miss can cause damage when it hits the nose or throat.  Most attackers will not anticipate resistance.  The key should be used in quick thrusts, which are not as easy to deflect  and are usually unexpected.  You can follow through with the elbow, striking chin or chest. The elbow is one of your most powerful weapons; don’t be afraid to use it.  You can combine that with a knee to the groin, if the attacker is male.

As you approach your car, look at vehicles parked around or near yours.  A vehicle parked on the driver’s side may have an occupant.  They will usually be seated near your driver’s door or behind your car.  If you see someone, immediately return to the store or office and ask a security guard for an escort to your vehicle.

Always approach your vehicle from the rear.  As you approach, look for broken glass on the pavement. That glass could be from your window when someone has entered your car.  Approaching from the rear of the car affords you an opportunity to look into the rear seat, a favorite ambush point for assailants.  Don’t wait until you are next to the door, look through the back window. If you wait to get a clear view through the rear passenger window, anyone hiding in the rear seat can open the door and attempt to grab you.

Humans have a second sense that has been handed down from the time when we had to hide from predators.  Most of these senses have been buried in this “civilized age.”   Unfortunately, it is still a jungle out there and though these instincts have been buried, fortunately, they are still there.  Listen to your gut, which is where the sensations of comfort or fear originate.  An uneasy feeling is a sign that something is out of kilter and wrong.  Trust that feeling.

Entering an empty parking lot or any area that affords a predator an opportunity is the same as entering into a jungle.  Focus on where you are going, turn off the iPod or any distraction.  Attuning to all your senses is not just important, it could be vital to your survival.

You need to be in the moment.  The moment is where the predator lives and breathes.  Often, you can detect the present of another person or threat, simply by using your senses.   If you haven’t honed those senses, they can be tuned into and honed.  Just being aware could be the difference between life and death.

If you sense something or feel uncomfortable, it is best to return to the shopping center or office building and ask a security officer or fellow employee to accompany you to your car. They are usually happy to assist you.  If no one is available, contact the police and have them meet you.

Please forward these safety tips to those you know and love.

Remember: Your Safety Is Up To You.