Sure, I write about safety with your children all of the time. But, hey, it’s not all about our kids! We need to be safe, too.
It’s a widely known fact: walking is incredible exercise. It’s easy on your joints, works your muscles, and is even good for your brain! It decreases your risk for possible future health problems when done on a regular basis. It can help to clear your mind, especially when you don’t have your kids with you. It’s a great stress reliever, great alone time for you, and a wonderfully healthy habit.
However, (yes, there is a “but”) there are many things that you could be doing that put you in danger. The most troublesome part about this is that you might not even know it. I see many moms out walking at night, or early in the morning that are perfect targets for attackers. Even taking a walk during the day can be dangerous. Unfortunately, this is what the world has come to.
Tips for a Safe Walk –
1. Never use headphones, or anything that blocks out the noise around you, even if you can still hear the noises around you. You can’t hear what’s going on around you, and everyone else knows that too. Attackers look for this, because it’s easy to sneak up on you, or follow you.
2. Keep your hair down. Believe it or not, attackers see women with their hair in a ponytail a good target, because they can grab their hair easier.
3. If it’s even just getting dark, at least wear some type of reflective gear. There are a variety of items available such as vests, reflective sneakers, or even just a flashlight. This let’s passing cars know your there. However, I would not walk at night as you are putting yourself in danger. This increases your risk of getting attacked.
4. Change up your walking routine. Some attackers will actually stalk you for some time before they attack. They’ll gather information such as what route you walk, what time you walk, what you wear, if you listen to music, etc. Don’t use a routine.
If you do even just one of these things, you might as well put a sign on your forehead that says, “Come attack me!” Please don’t become another victim. Reduce your chances. If you absolutely must do even one of those things listed, use a treadmill! This will allow you to walk within the safety of your home. Just make sure those doors are locked first.
Stay Safe!