Creating a sense of empowerment among women begins with ensuring safety, being well-informed, and looking out for one another in everyday life.
The month of August celebrates the women in our communities, emphasizing the importance of awareness around safety.
As we celebrate women, we invite you to explore essential guidelines for your safety:
Stay Connected but Conscious: We know life is a whirlwind but it’s essential to take a moment to ground yourself. Whether walking, driving or even at home, resist the temptation of drowning in gadgets. Using your smartphone and earbuds can divert your attention from potential risks. Keep your ears clear, and eyes wide, and stay alert to your surroundings.
Intuition is Insight: Barker believes that intuition is as vital as any insurance policy. It’s a primal defense mechanism. If something feels off, trust that instinct.
- Familiarity is not Safety: Don't confuse the comfort of what's familiar with genuine safety. Even though the streets you know may feel like home, they aren't necessarily sanctuaries. Whether it's your local store, daily walking route, or even your own neighborhood, they demand the same level of vigilance as places unknown to you. Stay alert and practice the same caution in familiar surroundings as you would in unfamiliar terrain.
Strength in Numbers: Whenever possible, journey with company because safety is certainly better when shared. Avoid solitary outings during vulnerable hours and if you must be alone, we recommend choosing a populated area as well as using tracking services or notifying someone about your whereabouts.
Preparedness is Power: A true Barker client is always prepared! Carry a self-defense tool such as pepper spray, and have it accessible and ready for action, not hidden in your handbag.
Subtlety Over Showmanship: Flaunting expensive items and essential documents is like rolling out the welcome mat for trouble. Keep your valuables discreet when you're out and about and maintain discretion to avoid unwanted attention.
On the Road Vigilance
Your car is a space where safety should never take a back seat. At Barkers, we want to equip you with strategies to ensure that your car remains a sanctuary of security:
Be Key-Ready: Before stepping out of a building, have your car key in hand. A fumbling search for keys can make you vulnerable; being key-ready allows a swift, confident move to your car.
Lock-In Safety: Once inside your car, lock the doors immediately and start driving. Lingering in an unlocked car with diverted attention is a risk easily avoided.
Seek Trusted Company: If you’re feeling uneasy, ask for accompaniment from a store employee or security guard. Safety is a collective responsibility, and there's no shame in seeking support.
Offer Help from a Distance: If a stranger requests assistance with their car and you're alone, compassion doesn't require compromise. Stay inside your vehicle and offer to call for professional help. Your safety comes first.
Ready Your Vehicle: Before departure, ensure your car is in optimal condition, with enough fuel and a properly inflated spare tyre. A well-maintained car is less likely to leave you stranded.
Out of Sight, Out of Danger: Secure your belongings by locking them out of sight. An uncluttered car is less tempting to prying eyes and keeps your focus on the road.
In Case of Trouble
Should adversity confront you, it's paramount to take the reins:
Stand Tall, Speak Loud: When harassed, don't hold back. Announce the situation clearly, and make your way to populated areas, seeking assistance.
Flight Over Fight: Your safety is a priority. If an opportunity arises, create a distraction by screaming and distance yourself immediately.
Defend with Determination: If escape isn't an option, channel your inner strength to defend yourself. Prioritise your well-being over concerns about potential legal implications.
Guard Against Deception: If your aggressor claims they mean no harm, exercise caution. It's better to assume that deceit is part of their arsenal.
Let’s unite in the mission of ensuring a safer tomorrow for every woman in South Africa.
Awareness is the first step to mitigation. Let us spread the word and ensure that all women are not just celebrated but also informed, empowered, and safe.