Holiday Shopping Self Defense Tips

In this article, personal safety experts share tips about self-defense that will help protect busy shoppers!

Holiday shopping can distract anyone’s brain. Shoppers are trying to remember whos gifts have been purchased, while calculating whether it is better to use a 20% coupon or sign up for an in-store credit card for extra savings. Personal safety at the mall and in the parking lot is the last thing on most people’s minds. Poorly lit parking garages, arms full of packages, keys buried in the bottom of an overflowing purse, and other factors can make women particularly easy targets for predators. To help women stay safe this holiday shopping season, Senshi Karate Gaithersburg has gathered a quick a list of personal safety tips and self-defense techniques to keep in mind when shopping this 2018 season.

1. STAY AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS BY SCANNING YOUR ENVIRONMENT.
No matter how busy you are, do not allow your mind to wander. It might seem important in the moment to be making a to-do list in your head, but if you are worrying about whether you will have time to stop at the specialty food store on your way home to pick up appetizers for tomorrow’s party, you might not notice someone following you to your vehicle.

2. PARK IN WELL-LIT AREAS, EVEN IF IT MEANS THAT YOU HAVE TO WALK A BIT FURTHER.
It is best to avoid shopping after the sun has gone down. But if you must, try to bring a friend or family member along with you. When you park, avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows. You want to keep your car as visible to as many people as possible and as such you should also avoid parking next to tall shrubs or plants that could block views of your vehicle.

3. DON’T WEAR YOUR PURSE SO THAT THE STRAP CROSSES YOUR BODY.
Wearing a purse strapped across your body makes you more connected to your bag. If someone tries to steal your purse, you will be pulled with the strap. You can become unbalanced and put into a vulnerable position or you could end up in a physical altercation with the assailant. If your purse is draped on one shoulder you can easily let go of it

4. DRESS CASUALLY AND COMFORTABLY.
The mall during holiday shopping season is not the time to make a fashion statement. It is better to leave the high heels and flashy statement-making pieces at home. Jeans and sneakers will help you blend in and if needed enable you to make a quick getaway. Also, avoid wearing large and expensive jewelry that can draw additional attention to you.

5. DON’T HESITATE TO ASK A SECURITY GUARD TO WALK YOU TO YOUR CAR.
If you are shopping at night and the crowds at the mall have thinned out, taking an extra step to stay safe is always a good idea. There’s no shame in asking a security guard for help, that’s what they’re there for! Or, plan ahead and pay the few extra dollars to valet park your car so you do not have to walk to it alone with your arms full of bags.

ABOUT SENSHI KARATE DO
Senshi Karate Gaithersburg is a Traditional Family Martial Arts Academy. We offer a Traditional program for all ages teaching Character and Discipline from day one. We strive to build champions in life. Our team of Instructors are a credited Black-belts, Olympic Coaches & Referees. We invite you to explore our website and find out how our programs can benefit you and your family

For Class Times and Information Call 301-820-0041

Article Resources: Krav Maga Worldwide