The month of December is one of the heaviest traffic times of the year, as shoppers go about their business, and the working world carries on their daily duties.  There are more travelers, too, so the focus on preventing distracted driving is very important, at all times, but especially when there are more vehicles in city streets and on the highways.

Department of Transportation unveils ‘OMG’ PSA to warn teens about the dangers of distracted driving.

The U.S. Department of Transportation unveiled “OMG,” a new public service announcement (PSA) to warn teenagers against the dangers of distracted driving. The PSA is available on the newly redesigned Distraction.gov website, along with new materials designed especially for young drivers. The new PSA is designed to reach teenagers using imagery that relates to popular shorthand text messages such as “L8R” for “later” or “LOL” for “laugh out loud.” Two versions of the PSA will air. A version geared toward a teenage audience will run exclusively on 6,589 movie screens in 526 cinemas across the country. A more somber version will air on the 12,000 screens that top pumps at high traffic gas stations across the United States.

The human toll is tragic,” said OSHA Assistant Secretary David Michaels about the consequences of distracted driving. “The Department of Transportation reports that in 2009, more than 5,400 people died in crashes linked to distraction and thousands more were injured.

Texting while driving has become such a prominent hazard that 30 states now ban text messaging for all drivers. It is an employer’s responsibility and legal obligation to create and maintain a safe and healthful workplace, and that would include having a clear, unequivocal and enforced policy against the hazard of texting while driving.” In an Oct. 20 blog post, Michaels said, “Companies are in violation of the Occupational Safety and Health Act if, by policy or practice, they require texting while driving, or create incentives that encourage or condone it, or they structure work so that texting is a practical necessity for workers to carry out their job.” 

Agencies such as OSHA, the Department of Transportation, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, are working together to ensure that companies enforce the policy that their employees who are required to drive all or part of their work shift do not text while driving.  Technology has made workers able to accomplish more by faster communications; however, there is a time and place for use of a cell phone, and it is not while driving.  These calls should be made when the driver is stopped and pulled over.  If there is an accident because of talking or texting on a cell phone, how much time is saved then?  For more information, visit OSHA’s Distracted Driving Web page. 

ONE TEXT OR CALL COULD WRECK IT ALL

Distracted driving is a dangerous epidemic on America’s roadways. As stated previously, in 2009 alone, nearly 5,500 people were killed and 450,000 more were injured in distracted driving crashes.  The U.S. Department of Transportation is leading the effort to stop texting and cell phone use behind the wheel. Since 2009, two national  distracted driving summits have been held, banned texting and cell phone use for commercial drivers, encouraged states to adopt tough laws, and launched several campaigns to raise public awareness about the issue.  Distraction.gov is your resource for learning more about distracted driving. Get the facts, get involved, and help us keep America’s roadways safe.  If you haven’t seen the videos, go to this website and see for yourself just how fast tragedy can strike.

Sources: USDOT, NHTSA, OSHA

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 I received this email recently and we have previously talked about not using cruise control when it is raining.  We want to repeat that tip, as well as this one:

  GOOD VISION IN A DOWNPOUR 

How to achieve good vision while driving during a heavy downpour.  We are not sure why it is so effective; just try this method when it rains heavily. This was told by a police friend who had experienced and confirmed it. It is useful….even driving at night. Most of the motorists would turn on HIGH or FASTEST SPEED of the wipers during heavy downpour, yet the visibility in front of the windshield is still bad……  In the event you face such a situation, just try your SUN GLASSES (any model will do), and miracle! All of a sudden, your visibility in front of your windshield is perfectly clear, as if there is no rain.  Make sure you always have a pair of SUN GLASSES in your car, as you are not only helping yourself to drive safely with good vision, but also might save your friend’s life by giving him this idea.  How about a pair of good safety sunglasses?  Those who have tried this method say the gray or green lens seem to work best.  Possibly, the yellow ones would work, too. Try it yourself and share it with your friends! Amazing, you still see the drops on the windshield, but not the sheet of rain falling.  You can see where the rain bounces off the road. It works to eliminate the “blindness” from passing semi’s spraying you too.  Or the “kickup” if you are following a semi or car in the rain. They should teach that little tip in driver’s training. It really does work. 

This warning is a good one! I wonder how many people know about this~  A 36 year old female had an accident which totaled her car. A resident of Kilgore, Texas, she was traveling between Gladewater & Kilgore. It was raining, though not excessively, when her car suddenly began to hydroplane and literally flew through the air. She was not seriously injured but very stunned at the sudden occurrence!  When she explained to the highway patrolman what had happened he told her something that every driver should know -NEVER DRIVE IN THE RAIN WITH YOUR CRUISE CONTROL ON! She thought she was being cautious by setting the cruise control and maintaining a safe consistent speed in the rain. But the highway patrolman told her that if the cruise control is on when your car begins to hydroplane and your tires lose contact with the pavement, your car will accelerate to a higher rate of speed making you take off like an airplane. She told the patrolman that was exactly what had occurred.

The patrolman said this warning should be listed, on the driver’s seat sun-visor – NEVER USE THE CRUISE CONTROL WHEN THE PAVEMENT IS WET OR ICY, along with the airbag warning. We tell our teenagers to set the cruise control and drive a safe speed – but we don’t tell them to use the cruise control only when the pavement is dry.  The only person the accident victim found, who knew this (besides the patrolman), was a man who had a similar accident, totaled his car and sustained severe injuries.

True story:  A local young man from my home town was traveling down an interstate highway with his girlfriend, when it began to rain heavily.  He was driving at a high speed, when his car hydroplaned; he was ejected from the car and lost his life.  The young lady survived without injury, but this is an example to not drive at an unsafe speed in the rain, and buckle your seat belt at all times.

NOTE: Some vehicles (like the Toyota Sienna Limited XLE) will not allow you to set the cruise control when the windshield wipers are on. If you send this your friends that are not aware of this, it is worth it. You may save a life.

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NATIONAL DRUNK AND DRUGGED DRIVING PREVENTION MONTH 

Truth be told, studies show that 97% of Americans see drinking and driving as a threat to them and their families.  Too often innocent lives are lost because of someone driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.  Impaired driving is one of America’s most serious crimes.The entire month of December is time taken and sponsored by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving), and Governors Highway Safety Association, to remind all drivers to leave the party “at the party”, not on the road.  This years’ theme is “Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.”  

Officers know the cues to watch for when suspecting a driver is under the influence.  Citizens can do the same thing, and have a passenger call the highway patrol (or pull over and give the license number), if they see suspicious activity on the highway.  Some of the cues that officers observe that lead them to stop a driver are:

• Weaving
• Weaving across lane lines
• Swerving
• Drifting
• Almost hitting another vehicle
• Stopping in the lane
• Accelerating for no reason; varying speeds
• Failure to signal turns
• Going the wrong way
• No headlights on at night
• Following too closely
• Inappropriate or unusual behavior
• Impaired appearance.

Again, if you suspect an impaired driver is traveling near you, call law enforcement, and possibly save someone’s life.

Employers can save time, productivity, money and lives if they have an employee-based traffic safety initiative.  Working Partners raises awareness about the impact drugs and alcohol have on the workplace, and helps employees and employers work together to ensure safety on the road, in the office, and at a worksite.  Individuals most likely to drive impaired – those between ages 21 and 34 – are well represented in the workplace and can provide a captive audience for prevention messages.  The NHTSA uses a three-pronged strategy: high-visibility law enforcement and supporting communication campaigns; enhanced prosecution and adjudication; and medical screening and brief intervention for alcohol abuse problems.  Special emphasis is placed on reach high-risk populations, including those between the ages of 21 to 34, repeat offenders, and high-BAC (blood alcohol concentration) offenders. 

So, during the holiday season, when there are more parties and festivities, remember to make plans to have a designated driver – or know how you are going to get home safely.  It’s not worth risking your life or the lives of innocent persons to get behind the wheel.  Not only during holiday season, but every day should be a safe driving day.  There is help for those who are fall the influence of alcohol or drugs on a regular basis, and if you know someone who fits into this category, try to encourage them to get help.  That would be the best Christmas gift of all.  

Drive safely and sober!

 NHTSA

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National Teens Don’t Text and Drive Week, November 20^th – 26th is a very important observance.  However, it should also be “National Adults and Teens Don’t Text and Drive Anytime!”  Recently, I took my grandaughter to a fast-food restaurant, where we were seated next to the window that drive-thru customers passed by.  I would estimate that 9 out of every 10 drivers were texting or retreiving emails while going through the drive-thru.  That may be a little safer than when they pulled out and got back on the freeway, but it still made me wonder if they do it more than just when they are slowed down.

Texting While Driving Kills Virtual Pedestrians  (from Live Science Staff)

“Several studies have shown that distractions while driving, such as using cell phones or texting, can be dangerous. New research confirms these findings among teens.  The study of 21 teens in a driving simulator found that while texting or searching their MP3 music players they changed speed dramatically, wove in an out of their lanes, and, in some cases, ran over virtual pedestrians.  Similar studies have found that adults who talk on cell phones while driving in simulators perform as dismally as drunken study participants. Studies from the University of Utah show that hands-free devices do not make it safe to use cell phones while driving.  In January, the National Safety Council called on state and federal lawmakers to ban the use of cell phones and text-messaging devices while driving and also urged businesses to prohibit it.”

You may not be old enough to remember the old joke (when riding bicycles):

• “Look, Ma, No Hands! – Look, Ma, No Teeth!”
•  Now, when driving and talking or texting on the cell phone,
• “Look, Ma, No Hands! – Look, Ma, No ME!” 
•   Seriously, it’s not a joking matter. 

In your opinion, which do you think is the most risky thing to do while driving: 

1.      Talking to passengers in the car?

2.      Talking on the phone?

3.      Texting while driving?

4.      Using the internet on the phone? 

I would be interested in your answer.  In my opinion, it is all of the above.  Let’s don’t take chances.  I can’t even text well when I am in my home, (just can’t hit the right letters!)  Let alone try to do it while I am driving.  From experience, I know that it is hard to concentrate on driving safely if I am having a phone conversation with a friend.  It is just not worth taking the chance. 

So, parents, set the example: turn the phone off while you are in the car.  I know this will fall on a lot of deaf ears.  But if you show your kids that you have the willpower to do what’s right, let’s hope they will follow suit.  Drive safely, and keep that phone turned off!

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Do you know the difference between “Road Rage” and “Aggressive Driving?”  I thought the two were about the same, but here’s what the AARP Driver Safety Program says: 

AGGRESSIVE DRIVING – Usually involves traffic offenses such as following too closely, unsafe lane changes, speeding, failure to signal intent to change lanes, and other forms of negligent or inconsiderate driving, such as yelling, cursing, repeated blowing of the horn, rude or obscene gestures, etc. 

ROAD RAGE – Occurs when a traffic incident escalates into a far more serious situation.  For example, a person becomes so angry that he or she overreacts and responds with some type of violence, such as getting out of the vehicle and threatening you with bodily harm.  These acts may range from verbal abuse to physical abuse, or even to an assault with a weapon or motor vehicle (such as using their car to run you off the road.) 

Studies show that eighty-five per cent of angry drivers claim they would not have escalated the situation if they had gotten some sort of apology from the other driver.  Even if you are not at fault, apologize in order not to provoke an angry driver further.  Be courteous and avoid cutting others off, and stay with the traffic flow.  You know that you were in the right, but sometimes it pays to a little contrite, as you won’t gain anything from a confrontation with an irritated and angry person. 

There are probably not too many of us who can honestly say that something hasn’t happened as we were driving along the freeway or local street that ignited our tempers  to the point of triggering such an emotion, especially aggressive driving.  However, I have never felt such anger that I would want to ram someone with my car, (with the exception of the infuriating experience with my first brand new car, and a lady ran a stop sign. I thought she was going to hit me.  Later, I felt ashamed that I could let a material item make me feel so mad. 

Road rage is a horrible thing to have happen, especially if there are children in the vehicle.  Parents and grandparents must hold their tempers at all times and set a good example for their youngsters.  If you drive that way, chances are they will, too.  Here are some tips from AARP that will help you avoid aggressive drivers and help prevent road rage behavior: 

• Leave early in order to arrive at your destination on time.  Then you aren’t rushed.
• Avoid eye contact with drivers trying to challenge you. (Keep your eyes on the road.)
• Don’t block the passing lane.
• Don’t abuse your vehicle’s horn.
• Don’t make or return obscene gestures or words.
• Use turn signals when changing lanes.
• Don’t stop in the road to chat with someone.
• Don’t “tailgate” or follow too closely.
• Be courteous and remain calm.  Avoid conflict.
• Don’t get out of your vehicle to argue or challenge another motorist or pedestrian. 

If you feel there is a chance of road rage behavior, and you are unable to avoid a confrontation, drive your vehicle to the nearest lighted public area (a shopping center, mall, hospital, convenience store, police or fire station), and call for assistance from store owners, the police, or security personnel or other people before getting out of your vehicle.  If you can get their license number, give that to law enforcement.  You may save someone else’s life.  Get out of harm’s way as soon as you can. 

Remember, drive defensively, and stay safe!

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Regardless of your plans for this last long week-end holiday, which marks the end of summer, beginning of school and football season, make plans to take extra precautions to have a safe three-day weekend.  Yesterday, we issued some great tips from the American Trucking Association for travelers.  Who should know better than the ones who are on our Nation’s highways more than anyone else? 

Labor Day began in 1882 in New York City.  In 1884, the first Monday in September was selected to celebrate “a workingmen’s holiday.”  I’ve got news for history:  there’s a lot of working women who need to be honored alongside them!  Canada observes the same day to honor its workers; many other countries have a Labor Day celebration at different times of the year.  

One thing that will be different about the traditional Labor Day Muscular Dystrophy telethon: Jerry Lewis, age 85, will not be hosting this annual money-raising project this year.  He has hosted the telethon that is held during the Labor Day Weekend for the past 45 years, and it is dear to his heart.   We need to continue this worthwhile cause in helping those who suffer from this debilitating disease and be grateful for what Jerry Lewis has done for the telethon. 

You’ll probably hear your fair share of political speeches, or attend your local annual fair or picnic that volunteers work hard to make successful.  Some folks will go to the lake for that last outing, or participate  in other water sports, such as fishing, boating,  swimming, or hike their favorite lookout spot.   Whatever you decide to do, please keep safety in mind: water safety, camping safety, food safety, and take along that first aid kit,  just in case. 

Last, but not least, a friendly reminder from our nation’s law enforcement agencies.  Texas is participating in a nationwide impaired driving crackdown coordinated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), that combines high-visibility law enforcement with a public information and education campaign.  Between August 19^th (you may have already noticed more of them,) and September 5^th, thousands of law enforcement officers will be working overtime to stop and arrest impaired drivers on Texas roads and highways.  TxDOT is reminding Texans: if you’re caught drinking and driving, you are going to jail.  And, as we said, this is a nationwide crackdown.  

Do not get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking. (This applies to driving boats, as well.)  Designate a driver, call a cab, catch a bus, or get someone you trust to pick you up, or spend the night where you are.  A DWI arrest and conviction in Texas can cost up to $17,000 or more: fees include car towing, impoundment, bail, attorney fees, court costs, hearing and fees to regain and retain driver’s license, DWI fine, probation costs, fees for extended proof of insurance, plus insurance rate hikes.   The 2011 theme for Labor Day is: DRINK. DRIVE. GO TO JAIL.

Now that you are properly warned,  get out there and have a great Labor Day!  (We know that not everyone needs that warning.)  You have worked hard and deserve a day of rest and relaxation.  Just please stay safe – whatever you choose to do.

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Every fall, as parents send their youngsters off to college, it is the most natural thing in the world to be concerned for their safety.  We want to share tips that we have either written about in the past, to serve as reminders that the world we live in has its share of dangers.  College freshmen are ready to “try their wings,” and that may mean doing some things that they haven’t done while living at home.  They feel they must show their independence, although Mom and Dad are probably footing all the bills! 

Party time is just around the corner!  I’m not saying they all will do it, but some young people are ready to learn, not just about education, but also about “partying.”  Here are some “sobering facts” that we want to discuss with you first.  Think for a moment about how many missing young college students or other girls are being searched for right now.  They may have been out for a jog, or they may have been with a group and left with some stranger.  Warn your kids that their safety is foremost, and to be aware of their surroundings at all times.  Other unpleasant factors to consider are:

• “Date Rape” – An unfortunate statistic is that 90 per cent of rapes occur between people who already knew each other and that approximately half of rapes happen on dates.  The Journal of Studies on Alcohol reports that more than 70,000 students between the ages of 18 and 24 have been victims of alcohol-related sexual assault.  An illegal drug in the U.S. is Rohypnol, the “date rape drug” that can be slipped into a drink.  It causes drowsiness, loss of coordination, dizziness and memory loss.  Never take drinks from other people, and don’t leave your drink unattended!  Don’t take the chance.  Be sure when you go out to tell someone you trust the name of your date, destination, and planned time of return.  Take your cell phone and money for a cab just in case.
• Stay with a group. – You are responsible for your own safety.  Get acquainted with people you trust and feel comfortable with.  If something doesn’t seem quite right with a new date, remove yourself from the situation.  Usually your instincts tell you that you are taking a chance.
• Avoid excessive alcohol.  You can have a good time without drinking so much that it alters your personality.  You will like yourself tomorrow much better if you don’t overdo it the night before.
• Take a self-defense class. – Chances are you will have to take a gym class, so ask if there are self-defense classes.  It could be the smartest thing you ever do.  Think about carrying self-defense devices such as pepper sprays, tasers (if legal), or personal alarms.  Know how to use these types of devices and be committed to using them should a dangerous situation occur.  Through preparation and awareness you will enjoy increased “peace of mind” and confidence knowing you are protected.
• Be aware of internet predators. - Practice computer safety, either at home or away at college.    Never give out your personal information to someone online that you don’t know, and be cautious about what you say to a stranger.
• Use the “buddy system” anytime you can.  – Whether crossing campus, shopping in a mall, going out to eat, or going to a bar, don’t go alone, if possible.  There is power in numbers, so make that your policy.
• Never go to an ATM at night, or alone.
• Pay attention to everything around you. – A fun idea is to give yourself and a friend a test walk past someone to see how well you could describe him or her if something happened.  It may surprise you how much you don’t remember, or the different way you and your friend describe him/her. 
• Make copies of important papers.- Your credit cards, health ID cards, etc., should be stored  in a safe place.  Leave a copy with Mom and Dad. 
• Last but not least on our list, don’t drink and drive or text and drive! 

Speaking of Mom and Dad, call them at least once a week, to let them know how things are going, your plans for the coming week, and generally, just to touch base.  It is always a comfort to parents to hear from their kids and know they are alright.  There are many other suggestions we could make, and you have probably already heard  these from your parents.  Believe me, as you get older, you will realize just how smart Mom and Dad are.  They have learned from experience, and while they want you to have the college experience, they want your safety, foremost.  Just use common sense.   We wish for you a safe and happy college life.

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It’s hard to believe another school year is rolling around!  Parents are busy buying supplies and new clothes, ready to take that “first day of school” picture of their little students!  This is an important time for students, parents, and teachers to get the year started off with a bang.  It’s up to everyone to see that these kids are safe while they are on a school bus, crossing the street, or being carpooled. 

Drivers must pay special attention as they approach crosswalks and are in neighborhoods where kids are walking to school.  They may be busy talking to each other and forget to be as careful as they should.  That’s when we all must do our part to ensure their safety.  When you are backing out of your driveway, take it a little slower, just in case there are some small pedestrians in your drive.  Be watchful for children on and near the road in the morning and after school.  Take extra time to watch for children on medians, curbs, and at intersections.  Slow down and be alert.  Turn your cell phone off and concentrate on the road while you are driving in school zones. 

Until a child is 10 years old, they should cross the street with an adult.  If they walk to school, help find another child they can walk with.  Caution them to cross only at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks, or obey the crosswalk guard.  Kids should know never to run into the streets or cross in between parked cars. 

School bus safety is very important.  Tell your child to wait for the bus to stop before stepping off the curb.  They should stay seated while on the bus, and use lap or shoulder straps if the bus has them.  Children should always get on and off the bus at locations that provide safe access to the bus or school building.  They should always remain in the driver’s view. 

If they ride a bike to school, make sure they always wear a helmet.  They should ride on the right side of the road, with the direction of auto traffic.  Teach them to use the correct hand signals.  Wearing brightly colored clothing will increase visibility; also, there are high visibility stickers that could be placed on the bike or backpack to help be noticed. 

In several states, record-high temperatures continue to be recorded.  Consideration should be given about food safety, for children who take their lunch.  It’s been noted that foods that should be refrigerated spoil during the time they stay in lunchboxes.  Choose what you send carefully;  non-perishables would be best, or ask the teacher is if there is a small refrigerator in the room that your child’s lunchbox or sack lunch could be kept until lunchtime. 

Backpacks should have wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back.  Heavier items should be packed closer to the center of the backpack.  It should never weigh more than 10 to 20 per cent of the weight of your child.  Rolling backpacks are a good choice for students with a heavy load of books, etc.  Just be sure the school allows this type of backpack, and that it won’t have to be lugged up stairs. 

There are so many things to express about school safety.  We wish every child from Pre-K to 12 a very happy school year!  Good luck to the parents, too!

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The Memorial Day holiday weekend ushers in the beginning of warm weather outings, as most students have finished their school year.  There is always much anticipation in the air about planned trips, summer jobs, or whatever new things are to be enjoyed.  We want to remind you that the highways will be heavily travelled, so leave a little early in order to not be rushed.  Be careful if you are traveling alone about where you take rest stops.  It is wiser to stop at convenience stores, or where there are many people, than some of the public roadside rest stops.  Also, be aware that your friendly state troopers will be out in full force, with the sole purpose of keeping you safe!  Don’t let any distractions get in the way of safety, stay off the cell phone (hands free, only), NO TEXTING WHILE DRIVING, and don’t drink and drive!

One pesky little detail I’d like to mention is that, according to the travel organization, AAA, there should be almost 35 million Americans traveling either by train, plane, or cruises.  For those that are doing so, or staying in hotels, the National Pest Management Association advises people to keep bed bug prevention and detection tips in mind. “The good news is that summer is finally here; the bad news is that bed bugs continue to lurk in places people typically visit during a vacation,” said Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for NPMA. “Although bed bugs are a year-round pest, people have a greater chance of picking up this hitchhiker during the summer as travel increases. Bed bugs are a souvenir no one wants to bring home.”

Here are several NPMA tips to help travelers remain bed bug-free. More information can be found at AllThingsBedBugs.org.

• Pull back hotel bed sheets, inspect the mattress seams, box spring, around and behind the headboard, sofas and chairs for telltale brownish or reddish spots, shed skins or bugs.
• Avoid putting luggage on the bed or upholstered furniture.
• If changing rooms, be sure the new room is not adjacent to the possibly infested room.
• Use a large plastic bag to store luggage.
• Upon returning home, inspect and vacuum suitcases thoroughly before bringing them into the house.
• Wash and dry clothes on hot – whether worn or not or have them dry cleaned.
• Consumers suspecting an infestation should contact a licensed pest professional.

Many people are wondering if the high price of gasoline will affect travel, beginning this Memorial Day weekend.  The American Auto Club Association’s holiday travel projection that was released nationally, is that about 100,000 more Americans will be traveling this year than last.  According to the group, travelers will find other ways to compensate for the near record fuel costs by cutting down on other areas of their travel budgets.  Many may make the choices of less expensive vacations, such as hiking and other outings rather than more expensive meals and shopping.  And others may simply choose to stay home, maybe throw some ribs on the grill, and enjoy watching the big race, basketball playoffs, and baseball games.  That’s not such a bad idea.  Sometimes waiting to travel when it isn’t a holiday is safer.

It should be a long, hot summer, so stock up on sunscreen, and don’t forget those safety sunglasses, and earplugs for any loud events you plan to attend, say, the Indianapolis 500? Don’t overdo it in the sun.  A tan looks great until you get older, and then just adds to the wrinkles!

Most important of all, don’t forget the reason for this holiday.  Memorial Day is always celebrated in the United States on the last Monday of May.  This is a legal holiday that pays tribute to the memory of those who died while serving the United States in wars.  It was first observed in 1866.  We continue to honor those who gave their lives in the process of holding on to the freedoms that we enjoy.  We must also honor those who are now serving in far-away places, away from the celebration of family, and pray for their safe return.

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The world we live in is inhabited by many predators, some who prey on women; regardless of their age, females are targets, and must do all they can to be aware of their surroundings in order to be safe.  Women may be victims of domestic abuse – violence committed by a boyfriend or someone they know.  Some acts of aggression are drug or alcohol related.  Statistics show that many acts of crime against women go unreported. 

According to the National Crime Victims Rights Resource Guide, the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs and Office of Victims of Crimes, statistics from 2007 show that in the next hour, somewhere in the United States, the following will happen:

• 900 thefts;
• 189 violent crimes;
• 124 assaults;
• 66 robberies;
• 24 sexual assaults;
• 12 rapes; and
• 2 murders.

Note: these numbers were from a 2007 report; without doubt, the totals have increased since that time.  Of course, not all these will result in crimes against women, but our focus for today is to help women understand how to live more safely.  One suggestion is to wear expensive jewelry on special occasions only, when you are not alone. 

In vehicles, remember:

• Stepping out of the car either at home or in an isolated area can be a danger area.
• Check your car before entering it.
• Always be alert in parking lots, especially if it is dark.  If you are at a mall, don’t be shy about asking security to walk you to your car.
• Never leave the car unlocked, even for a few minutes.
• If someone pulls up beside you and points to a tire, don’t pull over.  Drive to a police station or busy place before you get out of your car.
• Be sure your doors are locked and windows are up when you stop at an intersection.
• If someone is pointing a knife or handgun at you from inside the car, don’t get into it, but run and scream.  More than likely, he will drive off, but if you enter the car, he has a better chance to harm you. 

If you take public transportation, remember:

• Wait inside a coffee shop until the bus or train arrives.
• Don’t sit by a window, in order to avoid someone sitting beside you and blocking your exit.
• Choose train compartments carrying the most passengers or sit directly behind the driver.
• Sit behind the bus driver or next to the door for a quick exit. 

At work:

• Be thoughtful about the clothing you plan to wear.  You don’t want to get the wrong kind of attention.
• Be friendly and polite, but be attentive for signs of “odd” behavior.  Do not flirt.
• Be firm about unwanted attention.
• Do not share personal information such as living alone, marital status, etc.
• Trust your instincts. 

While walking or jogging:

• If you are in an isolated area, don’t use your music headset; stay alert.
• Change your routes on a regular basis.
• Don’t be temped to use your cell phone while walking; don’t become distracted.
• The “buddy system” is always best; don’t go alone.  There is safety in numbers.
• If you feel as though someone in a car is following you, turn around and take another route.
• If you walk/jog in your neighborhood, find houses that you feel you are welcome to use as a “safe house,” – one that you can find refuge in, owned by a friend or acquaintance.
• Always have your cell phone with you. 

In social settings:

• Do not drink excessive amounts of alcohol, or take drugs that can alter your personality and actions.
• Stay with your group.
• Do not leave with strangers.
• Never leave any food or drink unattended where it could be tampered with. 

Keep in mind, that you need your cell phone with you at all times.  There are safety items that may be purchased to give you a little peace of mind, such as pepper spray, or a personal alarm, which is a small but loud device that will draw attention to an emergency situation.  The pepper spray causes pain to an attacker, and lasts about 20-30 minutes but causes no permanent damage.  In many states, it is unlawful to use something such as pepper spray or mace unless it is for self-defense. 

Many sexual acts are committed by people that the victims know, or thought they did.  An attack is usually preceded by a visual sign, which is often preceded by a verbal approach before the physical action.  Recognize the sequence: the look – the talk – the attack.  Most women think this can never happen to them, but it can occur anytime, anywhere, to all ages.  Recently, a 60-something year-old  lady was kidnapped and assaulted for days by a 58 year-old man.  He had been asking her out, but she was not interested.  After telling her family about the man, he took her hostage, burning her house and car.  Because she had mentioned the man to her family, law authorities found both of them in his home several miles away.  Because he tied her up, she was virtually helpless.  Now he is in jail, and hopefully, will be put away for a long time, where he cannot hurt or threaten anyone else.

Be aware of your surroundings at all times.  Stay in touch with family and friends so they know where you can be reached.  We just can’t be too careful!

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