"I see so many cars nowadays with cute stuffed animals, flower decals, etc. These scream 'woman,' and might invite someone to follow you home. As cute as it can be, resist the urge to deck out your car with cutesy decor because it's not worth your safety!"
"It takes about 80 to 100 pounds per square inch of pressure to dislocate a kneecap. If someone grabs you, go for the kneecap. They can't run after you if their kneecap is dislocated. Also, do everything to avoid being taken to a second location. There are things far worse than a quick death."
"NEVER tell someone you aren't from there. Yes, you are, and you've lived in that town and have for years. That way, they know not to take backstreets or do anything sketchy because they think you know the city. You are also not single. You live with your boyfriend, and he's waiting for you at whatever location you're going. Even if you're queer and dating a woman, saying 'boyfriend' is more likely to scare someone off. It's sad and sexist but true."
Women share practical safety strategies to reduce visibility and vulnerability in public and private settings. Avoid gendered or cutesy car decorations and choose plain luggage to avoid signaling solo female presence. Never disclose apartment numbers to delivery drivers and retrieve deliveries in lobbies when possible. Use situational de-escalation tactics like claiming to be local and not single to deter suspicious approaches. Prioritize avoiding relocation during an encounter and, if physically attacked, target vulnerable joints such as the kneecap to disable pursuit. Favor well-lit areas and ATMs when walking through parking lots or unfamiliar spaces.
Read at BuzzFeed
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