Protect Ya Neck Sis

A short guide to assist the modern woman living on her own.

(Disclaimer: I am not an expert in the fields of self-defense, weaponry, or home security devices. This informational piece serves as a conversation starter for women to be protected at all times. My objective has no malice intent.)

In 2020 it's not uncommon for women to be living freely and independently. This can be said for many women around the globe including myself and some of my girlfriends. Although, we pay our own bills and raise children while attempting to stay sane, one topic that we don't often talk about is how to stay protected within our homes and beyond. Unfortunately, we live in a time when awful tragedies happen to unsuspecting victims daily. I'm a woman living with my mother and three fur-babies, safety is my main priority.

With the topic of safety on my mind - I became a bit of a research nerd on how to protect my tribe and I. Did you know that 9 out of every 10 victims of rape are female and 55% of these attacks happen at or near the victim's home. These statics are not to scary you ladies but, we need to be aware and ready for whatever comes our way. So, I decided to come up with a short guide on how to protect ourselves at any time and at any age. Practicing and acting on these mindful precautions will better prepare us for whatever comes your way.

Physical Protection

I remember my mother always had a silver golf club next to the front door. I didn't know it at the time but the golf club was to be used in case she needed to protect her three children from crazed intruders. I learned the purpose of the golf club on my first night of babysitting my brother and sister - lucky me! Here was my introduction to physical safety; if someone you don't know tries to force their way into our home knock them over the head with the golf club then call 9-1-1! All jokes aside we must be prepared to defend ourselves in any situation especially when walking home from the bus stop or train station. Days are shorter meaning it becomes darker much sooner allowing attackers be invisible. We have to be very aware of who we are a passenger to when using ride-sharing services. There are so many instances where we all can become vulnerable - so let's talk about ways to protect ourselves.

Let's start with items that may be a bit controversial but effective with a simple glance. I do not promote violence in anyway. However, when it comes protecting myself against a violent person, I'm willing to do whatever keeps me safe and alive. A few weeks ago, my girlfriend and I were on video chat when a car pulled up beside her providing her with unwanted attention. After responding with a simple 'no, thank you' the harassment continued and got worst when the vehicle attempted to follow her. This is when she resorted to pulling out her pocket knife which scared off the persons in the vehicle; from there she made it home safely. This incident sparked my interest on this piece because I know so many women face dangers every day and some don't make it home.

Listed below are some physical protection items that can be kept in your purse and self defense classes, which serve as source of protection and a form of exercise. If you can't let go of any coin at the moment for a in person class - watch/engage with free self-defense courses on YouTube! I currently live in Massachusetts, most recently mace/pepper spray became legal under the name self-defense sprays. However, there was time when purchasing these items were not an option. I learned a life hack from former co-worker, if you carry hairspray it acts in the place of mace/pepper spray. Think about when you get a little hairspray in your eyes it stings. It has the same effect as self-defense spray - to temporarily impair someone's vision. The pocket/keychain alarms can be found with a simple Amazon search for $8! I tested my pocket alarm outside and was pleasantly surprised how loud it was. Please keep in mind some of these items are to be used at the discretion of an adult. Please be safe but stay ready.

Pocket knife

Mace/hairspray

Reflective clothing

Self-defense classes

Keys between fingers

Pocket/keychain alarm

Home Protection

If you never had the pleasure of meeting my dachshund-corgi mix you should know to never fool with him or his family. He may be little but he is our ultimate protector. You can't come within ten feet of our home without hearing Tyson first! Like I said my mother always had that golf club and that was our home protection. We had no idea about alarms or any other forms of home security. Now days you can find all types of home security methods whether you want to be equipped with surveillance cameras on the perimeter of your home. Or you can go to your local hardware store and place sound alarms on your doors and windows for a one-time cost of $10. Investing in one of these items doesn't only allow for a peace of mind for yourself but for your loved ones.

Dog

Cameras

Motion detector lights

Always lock your doors

Weapon at door - bat/golf club

Home alarm devices /smart doorbell

Know your neighbors/neighborhood watch

Knowledge is power

By you simply reading this blog piece you are proactively taking the steps to learning how to protect yourself. We all know knowledge is power so using our womanly instincts and being observant of our surroundings is vital. We need to always stay alert and sharp. Ultimately, protection starts within by staying clear-minded and protected by the things we cannot see. Mental clarity is source of protection. Below you will find books that are sure to inspire the fighter in you.

Charka Healing: A Beginner's Guide to Self-Healing Techniques that Balance the Charkas

Author: Margarita Alcantara

Self-Defense Made Simple: Easy and Effective Self Protection Whatever Your Age, Size or Skill!

Author: Phil Pierce

safety Tips

1. Ride Sharing App(s) - Safety features: Location tracker, name/picture of your driver, confirm license plate before entering vehicle. I always make sure to say hello along with driver's name so they are aware that I'm aware.

2. Add important contacts to your favorites/speed dial preferences on your phone. That way it will be much easier/faster to call someone you trust in a emergency.

3. Know your drink limit! Let your friends know your limit when out and about.

4. Do not leave drinks unattended. Do not have others prepare your drinks when a self-bar.

5. Be smart on social media. Not only celebrities get stalked.

6. Stay in contact with family and friends. Your true few will notice if they don’t hear from you in a couple of days and vice versa.

Below you will find a digital pamphlet of resources related to the protection of women. I hope this piece enlightened you and can be used as a conversation starter. If you have any thoughts or have suggestions on other forms of protection - please feel free to share by leaving a comment below. Power to the woman x

Digital Resource Pamphlet

STAND YOUR GROUND SIS