Thursday, September 17, 2009

And on a serious note...

Forgive me for going way off-topic, but my Baby Girl's about to fly away, leaving a very empty nest and I don't mind telling you I'm more than slightly freaked out.

She's a good kid. I trust her to make good choices, but I read the news. And I've got a cousin who's a cop. She told us there's a persistent problem with young women getting drugged and raped. This scares the hell out of me.

Anyway, we had lunch with Officer Suz and her husband, Officer Chris today for a little self-defense 101. The best defense is a good offense, they said. Instead of opting for a powerful pepper spray, they advised us to get a strong flashlight. Shining it in somebody's eyes if you feel threatened is instantly disarming.

I know this has nothing to do with dining. It's food for thought, though, in this scary world. Am I being a paranoid, over-protective mother? Excuse the cliche, but better safe than sorry!

3 comments:

Jan said...

You are NOT being overly paranoid. These are necessary precautions.

I hope your daughter also received the advice that, when walking after dark (or any time in a strange environment, really), she should be alert to her surroundings, head held high, prepared to take evasive action.

Now...take deep breaths and repeat after me, "everything's going to be alright."

David Hinske said...

I imagine she took it seriously considering her father being carjacked a few years ago. My lovely bride recommends the Tarus 8mm for smaller hands.

Jeanne said...

I think the problem of women being drugged and raped is a little overblown. The best advice I have (as a former university student development director) is to tell your daughter that she should be aware of what she's drinking and who's giving it to her. And to always go with friends who watch out for each other.

Also, Jan's advice is very important--don't walk like a "victim" (i.e.,someone who doesn't look like she knows where she's going). Walk like a confindent, aware person.

She'll be fine, I'm confident of that :).