It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Yes, Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year but it can be one of the most dangerous times of the year too. It’s sad but true, many robberies and muggings occur during the holiday season. So, it is important to be mindful when you make your way to your local mall this season.
Here are some tips to keep you safe this Christmas season:
- Shop during daylight hours. Ok, this is an easy one but very effective. I realize how busy we are and therefore it might not be possible to shop during the day. But, if you have a choice, please opt for daytime shopping.
- Avoid parking near vans. I’m sure 99.9% of the vans in the mall parking lot are completely harmless but, you don’t want to take the chance of someone dragging you into their their Chrysler Town & Country.
- Always get your car key ready before walking out of the store. Hold your key in your hand as if it were a weapon, it might become one. You don’t want to be fumbling through your purse looking for your keys while trying to remember where you parked your car.
- Learn basic self defense. Sign up for a martial arts class or attend self defense workshop. They are great workouts, confidence boosters, and potential life savers. {I know from experience – I studied Taekwondo for almost three years.} If you don’t want to take a class, just know the basics. Use your most powerful body parts to defend yourself: your knees and elbows. Trying to punch a man with your fist probably isn’t the best idea. Most women simply aren’t strong enough to hurt a man that way. If you knee him in the groin, I can guarantee you it will hurt him. It is also important where you strike your attacker. You want to aim for the most vulnerable body parts: eyes, throat, knees, groin.
- Don’t make yourself an easy target. Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to what is going on around you. Walk with your shoulders back, your head held high, and your eyes forward.
- Shop with a buddy. It is more fun anyway and you get to spend some (productive) quality time with a friend. Not to mention, there is safety in numbers.
- Shop online. Avoid the crowds, save on gas, and shop in your PJs and fuzzy slippers. Click here to read my post, 7 Reasons to Shop Online.
- Start your shopping early. The earlier in the season you begin, the more time you will have to find a buddy to shop with, to shop during the daylight, to look for the best deals, and to take advantage of the best sales.
Chances are you will never have to worry about this but it is good information to have. This information is not only important around the holidays, but anytime. Keep yourself safe!
Popularity: 1% [?]
">
