Avoid Being Mugged at the Mall

Dear Linda:
       
I’m 78 years-old and a seeming target for violence. I’ve been mugged at the mall twice. What can I do to protect myself?

Scared to Death

Dear Scared:
      
The most unscrupulous in society prey on those they believe to be weaker. There are precautions to prevent being vulnerable and actions to take if attacked.
      
Remember nothing is worth risking your life. If someone wants your belongings, don’t refuse, but don’t just give them over. Toss them as far away as you can, then run in the other direction.
     
Make yourself a difficult victim. Before leaving the store, consolidate packages, so they’re manageable. Have keys in hand. Walk purposefully and quickly to your car. Check underneath and inside before opening the door. Get in, lock up and leave immediately. No one will have time to get in beside you with a weapon.
      
If someone’s in the car when you get in, don’t drive off, even if they have a gun to your head. Gun the engine and speed into anything. The airbag will protect you. When the car crashes, get out and run.
      
Refuse to be taken to a second location (where a person’s often tortured, raped and killed). Instead scream, spray maze, hit the other person’s body parts with your elbows (the strongest point on your body), kick where you know it will hurt. Be as uncontrollable as you can, so the perpetrator will give up.
      
Enter your car from the passenger door if you’re parked next to a big van. Serial killers pull women in as they are attempting to get into cars.
      
If you’re thrown into the trunk, kick out the tail lights, stick your arm out the hole, and wave like crazy. Other drivers will see you and report the car license and description.
      
If you’re at all uncomfortable, call a security guard or policeman to escort you to your car. Be paranoid, be careful and be safer.