| Being aware of your surroundings as you are | | | | type of weapon they could smash a window and |
| walking to your vehicle is one of the most | | | | you would be in an undesirable position to defend |
| important things in your day-to-day life to protect | | | | yourself. |
| yourself and avoid a self defense situation. If you | | | | When and where possible back your vehicle into |
| park in a garage where you work and are | | | | parking spaces. This allows for a quick getaway if |
| assigned a space, become aware of the vehicles | | | | the need arises. It also gives you an opportunity |
| parked around your vehicle. If possible, get to | | | | to check backup lights, brake lights, turn signals, |
| know the other vehicle owners. New friends are | | | | etc. if there is a wall behind your vehicle. It also |
| always a positive thing in your life. You will be | | | | allows you a clear view to see if someone is |
| more conscious of an out of place vehicle or | | | | approaching your vehicle after you have gotten |
| person in your area if you know those who | | | | into the vehicle. It is much easier to see out the |
| should be there at any given time. | | | | windshield than it is out of the rearview mirrors. |
| Have your keys ready as you approach your | | | | These same ideas apply if you park in an open |
| vehicle. Taking time to find your keys when you | | | | area or a garage at your place of residence or at |
| reach the vehicle presents an opportunity for an | | | | the local shopping mall or grocery store. Self |
| attack. If you feel you are being followed as you | | | | defense is an ongoing process of awareness of |
| walk to your vehicle, do not go to your vehicle. | | | | the situation you are currently in. The more you |
| Continue to a populated area and summon help. It | | | | are able to be aware of your surroundings the |
| might seem like a good idea to get in the vehicle | | | | better you can protect yourself, your property |
| and lock the doors but if an assailant has some | | | | and others. |