By KATIE EDWARDS
Walking back to the car, her adrenaline pumps as she grips her keys between her fingers, on the defense so nothing can catch her off-guard.
“There’s not really anything you can do to avoid it. If you feel like something might happen you should just stay where there are people and pay attention to everything that is going on around you,” senior Kaley Long said.
Here are some helpful tips one can use to be more safe when walking to a car or parking lot, whether it is day or night.
Step One:
To avaoid having to search for keys, have them in hand before getting to the car. Keys can be used as a self defense mechanis by placing the metal part of the key between two fingers. Mace can also be used in this situation. Mace can be bought in a regular canister or a portable key chain.
Step Two:
The buddy system is a handy safety tactic. If possible, it is safer to travel with a friend or family member. If traveling with someone, one is less likely to be kidnapped. Abductors tend to target people who are traveling alone. Even if alone, find a security guard or someone trustworthy to accompany you to your car.
Step Three:
When approaching the car, check underneath it to assure no one is hiding beneath. While looking, remain far enough away so the attacker is not able to grab your ankles. Also check the back seats so the attacker can not execute a surprise attack. Not checking could leave the attacker with a opportunity to unknowingly hide in the back seat.
Step Four:
It is always a bad idea to park next to a big van or any car with a sliding door; it makes it easier for the attacker to steal his victim. If one is walking to the car and realizes a van has parked next to the car, then the best thing to do is to enter through the passenger side. Once safely in the car it is best to lock the doors immediately and leave as soon as possible.