TV and comic book writer Amanda Deibert started a conversation around an everyday problem that women face. Going out running early in the morning or later at night when one has the time or when there are fewer people around presents obvious challenges. The dangers that lurk in the dark, stranger danger… lone women can present easy targets for predators and so have to be cautious about all these while they are out running.
Pepper spray, an alarm whistle or necklace are some of the objects that women can easily carry upon their person as they head out of doors for a workout. This can help to raise the alarm and protect if accosted or attacked.
This commentator spoke about carrying knives, a loud whistle worn around the neck and a phone that tracks one's GPS location for when she goes hiking along a trail.
A running buddy is a good idea, simply because there is safety in numbers and a single assailant would hesitate to attack two people. Running with a dog is a great idea too – there is a warm, affectionate, friendly presence of a beloved canine and also the deterrence that the creature with sharp teeth presents to a would-be attacker.
This commentator shared pictures of her dog. She also recounted how when she ran alone, she would be greeted with whistles, jeers and comments, vis-à-vis respectful comments about her pet when she went out running with her dog.
While dogs may be the most delightful of creatures, they can be very protective of their loved ones. They can look like this… scary enough!
Obviously there is a demand for such kits and there are manufacturers who are fulfilling those requirements.
Even women who don’t run, choose to carry around a handy object such as this keychain, which can double as a weapon if need be.
Some commentators shared tips to be more vigilant while out alone. Rather than carrying a weapon, which could cause a situation to escalate quickly, some women choose to be watchful; reducing distractions and recognising potential attacks.
Some women spoke about safe spaces where they didn’t feel threatened, nor did they feel the need to remain vigilant or carry weapons of any sort.
Every woman on earth probably has a story about being groped in a crowded place, public transport etc. A safety pin can be a simple but marvellous tool of vengeance: a quick, painful jab. If the groper cries out, they are quickly identified and easily shamed for their behaviour. Even if they suffer in silence, that is a small victory for the person who was groped.
This woman relies on her self defence skills to thwart any would be attacker. It is telling that she feels less threatened by a wild animal than a human stranger.
This runner carries what appears to be a torch that no one sees as a weapon. It contains a strobe and is sturdy enough to be used to hit a would-be attacker.
A mace bracelet and knives are weapons of choice for this runner. While she shares her ideas, she also regrets the fact that such protection is necessary just to go out running.
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