To put it simply, every predator has one main fear – he doesn’t want to be caught. Predators don’t commit crimes because they want attention or because they want to spend time in jail. Predators commit crimes to fulfill some sort of convoluted psychological need, to exert power, and with the assumption they will remain in control at all times.

So what does this mean to you?

It means that if a man approaches you in a bar and won’t leave you alone, you should take out your cell phone, ask the guy to repeat his name, and begin dialing 9-1-1.

It means that if a person (or group of people) in a car try to follow you or block your path you should make a show of taking out a pen, writing down the license plate number, and then showing them that you are preparing to dial 9-1-1.

It means if you have a camera or Polaroid handy you should take a picture of the offending vehicle or individual. It’s actually better to keep a Polaroid under the front seat of your car. If you do end up contacting police you can give the photos directly to the police.

Have a cell phone? Use it to take pictures. Does your cell phone have a video recording device? Even better! Take video and narrate what is happening at the same time.

Are you nervous about a date with a new guy? Make sure a friend or trusted relative knows where you are going and arrange to call them periodically. Or, when you get to his house, use your cell phone to call your own home answering machine. Leave yourself a message explaining where you are, who you are with, and when you expect to return. Make sure your “date” is within ear shot as you leave the message.

Prove to those around you that you are in control of your situation. If a potential predator sees that you are consciously aware of your surroundings and/or feels you may fight back with any form of self defense he’ll likely leave you alone and go in search of easier prey.

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