10 Safety Tips for Females From Local FBI Agent

Fort Bragg is a military community where many females are often alone due to a deployed spouse, or simply choosing to go out alone to meet up with friends. The Fort Bragg Patch collaborated with a local Special Agent with the FBI to come up with some precautionary measures for females.

Timothy Gannon, Special Agent, provided safety tips for females. He foremost recommends not doing things that call attention to yourself. This could include choosing clothing that is flattering without being overly provocative.

Don't flaunt flashy jewelry or bring large amounts of cash when going to a bar. If you plan to drink, you are an easier target for criminals.

Have your cell phone and know its' capabilities. Does your cell phone have GPS tracking capability? If you are missing and the cell phone has the GPS tracking it's a plus for law enforcement. Know where you have coverage if you are alone. Keep your battery charged up.

Invest in pepper spray and keep it within range. They make them for your key chain or to keep in your car.

Take a basic self-defense course for confidence. Know how to throw a punch, it could give you that window of opportunity to escape from a dangerous situation.

Sign up for a concealed carry weapon permit class. Most establishments that serve alcohol do not permit you to carry it inside.

Don't take rides from strangers - how well do you know someone's background?

Don't go out alone, bring a friend, it makes you less of a target.

Be aware of the time you are out, more crime seems to occur after midnight.

Be careful about using an ATM in the middle of the night - people could be staking out the ATM, even in well lit area, but if they know you are alone, you are a target.

Always let someone, a neighbor, roommate, or children know your intentions before you left. Leaving a starting point and an estimated time of return can help investigators later.

Ladies, have a plan and make others aware of it. Do you have an emergency 'code' word if you are in danger. Something that simple via text or in a conversation could make a difference. Go over scenarios with your family or friends and be ready to act. If a stranger started walking over to your car, late at night as you were getting in, what would you do?