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 by: Michelle Annese

Its dark out. Its late. Youve closed down the mall with your bags and packages in hand. You did so good finding the terrific deals and gifts for your family and friends. And with the kids not around, you were able to accomplish so much. As your running the mental gift list in your head, youre not aware that you didnt park under any lights Or who parked next to you. Fumbling with the shopping bags, half-way through the lot, you start searching for your keys, you hear your cell phone go off And then without warning someone approaches you

Are you at risk? What makes a woman a perfect target? Here are 7 top tactics and weaknesses criminals who were interviewed say they look for to take advantage of you. They arent just for the busy holiday season either. Its all year round. Dont fall for them anytime and you can protect yourself from becoming one of the New Years next statistics.

1.Coming up to my vehicle, did I look around - aware of who is near it? Am I walking my packages in a cart or carrying them in my hand?

Criminals interviewed say they want to attack the woman who is walking alone and not aware of her surroundings. Always put shopping bags in a cart. This allows you ample time to react if someone approaches you. If youre carrying bags, this renders your hands useless to protect yourself and gives a criminal a bonus. Remember the buddy system. Late night shopping always needs to be a girls night out affair.

2.Are my keys already in my hand before leaving the store?

Again, awareness plays a huge part. Also, with a key in hand, it can be a terrific weapon if youre suddenly grabbed.

3.Am I talking on the cell phone fixing my hair counting my change writing in the checkbookand not paying attention?

Paying attention is the key. Take care of all that stuff in the store. NOT in the parking lot, or outside of the vehicle.

4.Is there anyone loitering around my vehicle if so are they suspicious enough to making me go back into the store?

Dont think your being silly. NO SUCH THING. Especially when your safety is on the line. If youre not comfortable with walking to your car, ask security to accompany you or if there isnt security available, a store manager will do it it is their job. Thats what they are getting paid to do.

5.Is my vehicle in a well-lit area? Is it easily visible to passer-bys? If I cant see my car really well, who can?

Criminals say they do not want to be noticed, recognized, or slowed down in any way. If youre not easily seen by others at a mall or store, that makes you a perfect target for a criminal.

6.If I have automatic keyless entry, did I hit the unlock button twice making it easy for someone to get into my passenger side door?

Get into the habit of opening just your drivers side door. New technology is wonderful when youre with others, loading packages, during the day. But, at night when your field of vision is limited, dont take any chances. Criminals are hoping that youll make their job easier for them.

7.If I am approached by someone no matter how much help I need, its OK to turn them down.

Remember, criminals will do and say anything they can to gain your trust. DONT FALL FOR IT!!! If a stranger wants to help you with your bags, tell them no, thank you. If they still insist, tell them no again. Criminal interviews revealed that they will try to play on a victims heartstrings to get access to the vehicle, a purse, or for the vehicle keys - and move-in for the attack when trust is gained and its least expected.

Want more? To keep up to date with criminal tactics and learn some of the best self-defense tips available, go to www.michelleannese.com for more ways to protect yourself and what we need to teach our mothers and daughters about safety.

About The Author

Michelle Annese is a third degree black belt with 15 years experience in the martial arts and has exclusive training with law enforcement and security experts. She is co-owner of AmeriQuest Martial Arts in Waynesboro, VA - USA. Ms. Annese is the author of The Realtor Survival Guide and has programs and seminars available around the country for women and children self-defense. For more safety information go to www.michelleannese.com. You can also send your security and self-defense questions to her at safetyquest@adelphia.net

Michelle Annese

SafetyQuest LLC

1160 Ohio St.

Waynesboro, VA 22980

Articles available for reprint in its entirety with urls intact.

safetyquest@adelphia.net