Staying on top of crime

IT used to be unsafe to carry oversized, designer handbags, wear flashy gold jewellery and walk to the shops late at night.

Today, it seems that it's just as dangerous to carry a paper bag, put on costume jewellery, or sometimes, even just drive to work.

Although people may be more careful with their belongings, thieves and crooks are more valiant and ruthless these days. Hence, women must be mindful of the factors that put them in danger before stepping out of the house.

Venovox security and investigation chief operating officer Rebecca C. said there were several factors contributing to the rise in crimes against women in the country, one of which was the lax attitude of security companies.

"Women are the easiest target for quick cash or valuables by means of snatching or extortion.

"Also, women are more independent now and they're part of a wider social circle. This means, many working women are out shopping more and having frequent late night outings -- spending a great amount of time behind the wheel, making them ideal targets.

"The security industry, too, is to blame as it's marred by foreigners, guards with criminal records and those above the age of 55. It doesn't help that buildings also have poor lighting and camera surveillance systems that don't work.

"Nevertheless, this should not serve as an excuse for the authorities to take the matter lightly."

She said it was imperative for women to take extra precaution.

"Many times, women forget where they've parked their cars, especially in shopping malls or office buildings. As a result, they wander around, exposing themselves to unnecessary danger. Instead, women should walk straight to their vehicle using the shortest route possible as soon as they exit the mall.

"Also, they must keep their remote and key in hand, and lock the car the moment they step into the vehicle. They shouldn't depend on the car's in-built auto lock system, which only takes effect when the brake pedal is engaged or when the car moves past 20kph.

"Many women are also easily distracted by their smartphones -- checking emails, updating social networking sites, replying SMSes and even playing games.

"You may not be a target the first time, but if you visit the same place many times, such as your bank, favourite shopping mall, restaurant or fitness centre, your attackers will start noticing a pattern. They'll realise that your attention is on your gadgets and not your surroundings.

"Women also tend to ignore their surroundings while driving; they feel safe in a box with four wheels on the road. Usually, they don't even notice if someone is trailing them in a car or motorcycle for 10 minutes.

"Most women won't even turn to see the drivers in the cars on their left or right, while waiting at traffic lights. They're worried that the other person may get the impression that they're checking them out. It is possible to look curiously without smiling and sending the wrong message.

"Although it's impossible to predict misfortune, it's best to be prepared," Rebecca said.

"You can deter an attacker by being aware of your surroundings at all times. You're unlikely to be attacked if you're walking with your head held high and eyes alert.

"Although self-defence and martial arts classes will unlikely be of any help if one is caught by surprise, it can serve as a tool to strengthen the body, keep the mind alert and build stamina."

Possessing gadgets like stun guns could cause more harm than good, she added.

"Besides the fact that most of these gadgets are illegal, it can also be used against you by the attacker. It's better to have something practical like a big, yellow whistle attached to your designer handbag, even if it means you're not as fashionable as the next girl.

"It serves as a deterrent and will be easily reachable in an emergency. If all else fails, shout for attention and create a scene. That usually throws an attacker off his game."

Martial arts practitioner and fitness centre manager Phoebe Lim tells how to fight back

Question: How effective is martial arts in fending off would-be attackers?
Answer: Martial arts practitioners have a better sense of awareness of their surroundings. They’re usually alert and suspicious. These traits will definitely influence their actions and reaction time when caught in unfavourable situations.

Practising martial arts helps women think ahead by assessing the situation and planning their next best move instead of faltering in their steps.

However, if a weapon is involved, little can be said about fighting back as most criminals now do not hesitate to hurt their victims first before robbing them.

Question: Should the study of martial arts be made compulsory for schoolchildren?
Answer: Yes, definitely. I think it’s good to start them young as martial arts is not something you can pick out of the shelf in a supermarket.

Practice needs time and character builds confidence. Most criminals prey on the weak and vulnerable. Looking tougher forces a criminal to think twice about approaching a potential victim.

Question:  When attacked or approached by an assailant, what’s the best thing for a woman to do?
Answer: The best approach would be to delay the demands of the assailant and at the same time look for a way out.

If it’s just one assailant, the best advice I learned from my master was to fight back by hurting the assailant where it hurts most.  That will buy you some time to run to safety.

If they’re demanding any of your belongings, just let them have it. But if what they want is your physical body, by all means please fight back.

It’s been reported that rapists tend to lose interest if a victim is hard to control.

Question:  What are some of the most effective moves in fending off attackers?
Answer: The golden rule is to kick them where it hurts most,  such as the groin, rib cage, throat, nose and jaw. If a woman manages to grab hold of an assailant’s finger, swing it wildly and strongly. A broken finger will slow him down.

Another strategy is to attract attention by shouting at the top of your lungs and straight into your attacker’s face.

Psychologically, shouting empowers you, telling your attacker that you will not give in to his demands easily.

Also, don’t allow your attacker to force you into a car, alley or house — diminishing all chances of you getting immediate help.

Practise good balancing skills to avoid being knocked down easily, and keep a self-defence weapon with you at all times, be it a pepper spray or panic alarm device.

Most importantly, be aware of your surroundings, do tell a close friend or family member of your whereabouts and never take shortcuts.