In a hotel elevator, stand as close as possible to the panel of buttons. If you feel threatened, hit as many floors’ buttons as possible. You can try to get off when the doors open, or if you can’t get off, try to get someone’s attention when the doors open on each floor.
If you’re in a country where you don’t speak the language, take a matchbook or business card from your hotel that you can show to a taxi driver to find your way back to the hotel.
Hanging a purse off the back of a restaurant chair or laying it on a bar, especially in tourist destinations, is almost asking a thief to take it. Instead, place your bag in your lap or wrap its strap around your leg.
If you call 911 from your home phone, the police know where you are. With a cell phone, this is not always the case. Tell the operator your location first, even before reporting the situation.
Hold your keys in your hand as you approach your car. You are most vulnerable getting into or out of your car.
Check the backseat before you get in the car, even if you left it locked.
Don’t sit in your car in a parking lot. A predator may be watching you, and this is the perfect time for him to make a move. Lock the door, turn on the ignition, and drive away.
If you are walking down the street and a person in a car asks you for directions, do not approach the car. Yell the instructions from a distance or simply say you don’t know.
If someone attacks you, first go for their eyes, and then scratch them with your nails to leave an identifying mark. If attacked from behind, use your elbow. It is one of the most powerful points on your body.
Never carry your house keys and an ID with your home address in the same bag. If a person grabs your purse, they’ll have your keys and know where you live.
If someone asks for your wallet or purse, toss it one way, run in the other direction, and make a lot of noise. Most thieves are more interested in your valuables than in you.