by Roxanna Kay

Created on: January 05, 2010

Train for what happens most - you'll be able to handle most of what happens.

Many rapists, serial killers and kidnappers use a van for the initial phase of their plan. And their goal is…to snatch you away from public, from your home, your family, your life and reality as you know it - to get you alone in their world, their reality. To torture, rape and even kill you. Ted Bundy played on women's sympathy by seeming injured to lure them to his car.

PREVENTION IS KEY

Taking precautions to avoid an attack is far greater than reacting to it once it has been initiated.

*  Don't park in isolated areas especially at night when you're alone.

*  Never, never, never get in your car with a van parked next to it.

*  Check inside your car before entering. The back seat and passenger's floorboard are areas of concern.

*  Once in your car – lock your doors and leave. Do not sit in your car and balance your checkbook or text a friend. Leave.

*  Be aware of your surroundings. Perpetrators like unsuspecting victims and are less likely to attack someone that is observant.

*  96% of rapists go through great measures to insure their victim is alone before he attacks. Safety in numbers – if at all possible have someone with you. Perpetrators don't want witnesses or interruptions during an assault.

*  Follow your gut. I call it the “Gut-thing”. Deep within something tells you not to go or to get out. Do it immediately, there is a reason you feel that way.

*  Do not help someone on crutches or with any injury. May seem cruel but reality is many woman have been murdered by trying to help a man carry his briefcase because he was on crutches. Keep a safe distance and call for help.

*  Check vehicles parked next to you. If a male is sitting in one do not proceed. Get security or call 911. Better safe than sorry.

*  Always take the elevator instead of stairs when you're alone. Stairwells are a perfect crime spot especially at night.

*  A robber asks for your purse. Do not hand it to him. Throw it hard in the opposite direction and run.

*  Keep something between you and a perpetrator. A tree, chair, anything to obstruct him from reaching you.

*  Be smart and use commonsense.

SELF-DEFENSE TACTICS

Using these tactics is justified if you believe you or someone else is in danger of bodily harm or death.

*  You're approached and feel threatened, immediately throw your hands in front of you ready

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