Retired U.S. Navy Commander Pauline Bullock, a local representative of the national organization Damsels in Distress gave a variety of tips on self-defense to members at the October networking breakfast.
Bullock said although her message was aimed at women and girls, the overall presence of mind and “situational awareness” advice can be used by everyone to keep themselves safe.
She said “Damsels” has been around for eight years, and in that time, the organization has received four major awards for safety training and products.
“My passion has become making people aware,” said Bullock, telling the Chamber that she finally agreed to join the organization after retiring from the Navy. “My joy is to make you aware of what’s going on around you so you can stay safe,” she said.
She presented various scenarios to the Chamber of women leaving businesses, going to work and others where “situational awareness” becomes critical to keeping themselves safe. Moreover, she demonstrated several new safety products now sold by the organization that give women an advantage in the event they are threatened or attacked.
Here are the key safety tips presented by Damsel in Distress:
- Always have your mobile phone and keep it fully charged
- Have a “buddy” – “the buddy system is not just for kindergarten.”
- Avoid alcohol – it will impede your judgement.
- Never get in a car with anyone who has been drinking.
- Trust your own judgement – “if it feels wrong, it generally is.”
- Plan your outing – make sure you AND your parents know where and with whom.
- Have a Plan B – have a plan to get home if your initial plan goes awry.
- Never leave with someone you just met and alert friends when you leave the group.
- Always stay together with your group and ALWAYS let your parents know when you are coming to be late, even just 10 minutes.
In other action, Chamber Chairwoman Dawnette Palmore thanked the members for the success of their first ever “Heroes Appreciation Luncheon,” inviting Judy Klabouch of Green Street Interiors, who individually thanked many of the businesses within the Chamber thanked contributed the event’s success.
Courtesy photo