Prevention Checklist: From the Female Point of View

By: Aleksandra Mircevska

The female population is taught since an early age about the resources and precautions needed to take while, well- just living their life as a female. It is constantly the issue at hand for women to in constant awareness of their surroundings in any setting. It becomes a difficult challenge to accept that us as woman may often be in constant fear of our lives, when in the first place, everyone deserves to feel safe no matter which setting they may find themselves in.

Going off to college for the first time was where I felt the most unaware of my surroundings. A tactic I would take was trying my best to get to know my community better and the people that lived around me. There were many instances when I reflect about this time while being on my own, for instance: during the weekends when most students and people would be outside and socializing, myself as we all many other female friends and peers would often feel apprehensive to roam the streets alone, even if we already knew where we were going. Calling a friend or even parent while walking to a destination alone was not unheard of either. When I think back to all the times myself or other girls would take such precautions while going out at night, I cannot help but remember the feeling of subconscious fear that was in the back of my mind. No one deserved to have to feel unsafe in the neighborhood they are living in. Especially when that neighborhood may be the place you call home.

Life is often unexpected, and after hearing the experiences and or stories of many other females in society, having prevention’s to avoid any form of harm being done is how I have learned to protect myself, and to enforce safety for the others around me.

The safety checklist below is one I created. It helps to reassure myself mentally before going somewhere I may be unaware about, especially after daylight time. The safety checklist has continued to give me peace of mind and ensure protection before ever having to find myself in a dangerous situation:

Checklist:

1. Always try to travel with a trusted friend or make sure to let someone you trust know where you are going before leaving the house. Find My Friends app. on the iPhone is also a great tactic for this!

2. Map out beforehand where your destination is to avoid any unwanted obstacles.

3. Do not be afraid to ask for help when out. Everyone can benefit from needing assistance in a pre-stressful situation in order to keep vigilance.

4. Carry a self-defense gadget; invest in a Resqme’s DefendMe for you or a loved one.

5. If you see someone in trouble or witness an alarming situation, call for help; avoid letting the bystander effect influence you to take action where it’s needed, it may benefit you and your community!