Crimes Against Women: Important Safety Tips to Protect Against Predators | By Jordan Frankel

Self-Defense Tips for Women to Protect Against Attackers | By Jordan Frankel
July 21, 2023
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When it comes to crimes against women, statistics continue to show that women are disproportionately targeted for certain types of crimes, including rape, sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and carjackings. These troubling realities highlight the importance of understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to stay safe.

With most criminals being men, women are often perceived by male predators as vulnerable targets. While some women successfully fend off attackers, many are overpowered—either physically by the attacker’s strength or psychologically through the threat of weapons like guns or knives.

If you think these crimes happen only to other women, think again. Every woman, including you, is at risk. While there is no foolproof way to eliminate the possibility of being victimized, there are practical steps you can take to significantly reduce your risk. Here are some safety and security tips designed to help protect women from predators and combat the growing threat of crimes against women.

Personal Safety Tips to Prevent Crimes Against Women

1. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings at All Times

Awareness is one of your best defenses against predators. No matter where you are—at a park, in a parking lot, or outside your home—stay alert. Look around for suspicious people or vehicles and pay attention to what’s happening behind you. If you notice someone loitering nearby or following you, move to a safer location or call 911 immediately. It’s always better to err on the side of caution.

2. Avoid Distractions in Public

Distracted women are easier targets for predators. Texting or talking on your phone while walking can leave you vulnerable. Keep your phone handy, but resist the urge to chat or scroll as you move through public spaces. Staying focused on your surroundings reduces your risk of becoming a victim of crimes against women.

3. Park in Well-Lit Areas

Predators often use darkness to hide. When parking your car, choose well-lit areas with plenty of visibility. If you ever feel unsafe walking to your vehicle, especially at night, ask a store employee or security guard for an escort. Most businesses are happy to assist their customers.

4. Have Your Car Keys Ready

Fumbling for your keys in a dark parking lot creates an opportunity for attackers. Always have your keys in hand before leaving a building. This not only helps you stay alert but also allows you to quickly enter your car or sound the alarm using your key fob’s panic button if necessary.

5. Check Your Car Before Entering

Predators sometimes hide inside vehicles to ambush their victims. Before getting into your car, check the windows, backseat, and, if you have a truck, the bed. This simple precaution can save you from a dangerous encounter.

6. Meet New People in Public Places

Online dating has become common, but meeting someone new can pose risks. Always meet in a public place with plenty of people around. Never let a man you don’t know well pick you up at your home or take you to a secluded location. Share the person’s name and contact information with a trusted friend or family member before meeting them, and avoid sharing personal details like your home address or work location.

7. Vary Your Routine

Criminals often study their victims’ habits. If your daily routine is predictable, it could make you a target for crimes against women. Change your schedule and routes regularly. For example, if you jog or walk your dog at the same time each day, switch the timing and path frequently to disrupt any patterns predators might observe.

Why Awareness is Key in Preventing Crimes Against Women

Crimes against women often occur because predators take advantage of moments when their victims are distracted, unaware, or unprepared. Being vigilant in your everyday life is one of the most effective ways to deter potential attackers. For instance, keeping an eye on your surroundings and taking proactive measures like parking in well-lit areas can help you avoid dangerous situations before they escalate.

Beyond protecting yourself, sharing safety tips with other women in your life—such as friends, family, or neighbors—can create a stronger network of vigilance. When women look out for each other, it becomes harder for predators to succeed.

Building a Safer Community for Women

Reducing the risk of crimes against women requires a combination of personal vigilance and community awareness. Encourage open conversations about safety among your friends and neighbors. For example, you can share tips like avoiding distractions, parking strategically, and varying routines to reduce the likelihood of being targeted.

Additionally, consider joining or forming local safety initiatives, such as Neighborhood Watch groups. Collaborating with your community can foster a safer environment and make it harder for criminals to operate unnoticed.

Final Thoughts on Combating Crimes Against Women

Protecting yourself against predators begins with staying vigilant and taking proactive measures. When it comes to crimes against women, your safety is ultimately in your hands. By following these safety tips, you can reduce your risk of being victimized while also helping to create a safer environment for others.

Don’t underestimate the importance of preparedness. Whether it’s being aware of your surroundings, keeping your keys ready, or meeting new people in public spaces, every step you take toward safety matters. Together, we can raise awareness and fight back against crimes against women—one precaution at a time.

Click here for more street-smart security tips by home security expert Jordan Frankel.