Perhaps it’s because women are so good at multi-tasking - they can talk on the cell phone, drink a diet cola, push a baby in a stroller and juggle half a dozen packages and bags all at once - that they are also the most susceptible to crimes that occur in parking lots. Yes, women can do all those things, and still be able to click the little button to unlock the doors to the minivan. But, being the trusting souls that women are, they are not thinking of predators who are looking for a distracted and busy woman to harass or assault. No, women are thinking of getting the baby and packages and stroller into the car and going home to cook dinner.

Predators count on the element of total surprise. It’s important for women to be vigilant and protect themselves, and their family, at all times; it needs to be a part of her very being. That being said, if women are aware of the tactics these predators use, they are forewarned, and therefore, forearmed.

• Try to always keep a hand free. It’s amazing how much stuff one arm can hold, and all you need in the other hand is your car keys. To that end, have them in your hand before you even leave the mall - don’t stand next to your car searching for them.
• Walk with confidence. See your objective, walk to it with purposeful strides and get your treasures inside quickly.
• Lock your doors immediately once inside the vehicle. If you have an electronic key lock, and it’s only you who needs to get in the car, then only unlock the driver’s side door.
• Be sure that your interior lights work, especially if you drive after dusk. You don’t want to enter a darkened car.
• Peek into the back seat before you open the door, and be sure no one is already inside.
• Pay attention to the vehicle that is parked next to you - a big van with darkly tinted windows should raise a yellow flag. Ask a security guard to escort you to your car, or just ask another couple to keep an eye on you. There’s no shame in paranoia.
• Don’t even go near your car if there is a single male who is loitering in the vicinity. Yes, he may be there for a perfectly innocent reason, but you can’t be absolutely certain of that unless you’re a mind reader.
• Once in your car move, especially if you’re in a secluded area of the parking lot. Whatever you need to do inside the car - make a phone call, feed the baby, eat your lunch - find a busier, well-lit area to do it in.

Your car should be your safe haven. Make sure that it stays that way.