When i was 17 and my friend was 16, we worked at a pizza hut. We lived four blocks from work. We worked the four to midnight shift and the owner called us a cab. We said no its only four blocks. He said my girls are never going to be in a unsafe situation. The whole year we worked there he sent us home in a cab. The pizza place was connected to a bar. Im 69 now and still think of that owner being so kind and caring
I (as a 23 y/o female) was once at night followed by a guy with a mask. I had nothing on me to defend myself and nowhere to run. I decided to take a chance and act like I had gone completely insane. Making loud roaring noises while rolling my eyes into my head and baring my teeth I turned to approach him like I was going to attack him with my bare hands. The guy stood there frozen for a moment, then ran for it. Man I was lucky 😂
I did the same "insane"-act a couple of times when I was attacked in i.e. Barcelona and India in the early 90s. I went ALL IN (haha) and bc of that escaped rape by seconds. I am trained in throat growling (A Norwegian thing) so that helped a lot😀
I was at an outdoor mall in Eugene one summer day with my two young daughters. We saw a girl about 13 years old, and a grown man walking about 10 ft behind her. She turned around and faced him and yelled very loudly, "Get away from me! Stop foilowing me!" She yelled that a few times and he turned and walked away fast. There were many other people in the area, all ready to help her. I told my girls, "And that is how that is done."
Oregon? I live outside Eugene. ❤ I've always told my girls make as much noise as you can if someone is following you or grabs you. Most of the time they are looking for someone who will go quietly
I moved recently from Eugene to southern Oregon in a rural place. Good idea with your girls! In martial arts I learned many girls won't scream because we're taught to be quiet, not make a fuss. So role playing helps, doing it with them actually practicing the yelling until it becomes a reaction.
When I was in my 20s, I was in a parking lot in San Francisco, and a guy followed me, drove where I drove, so I decided to drive to a fire station. The fire fighters on duty ask why I drove in... as soon as I told them... they saw a guy just drove off. They told me to wait it out a while, when the coast is clear...I drove home. Never drive straight to your home when you feel you are being followed.
My father told me to drive to the police station or firehouse, whichever is closer and blow my horn if this happens. He said the firefighters are good guys and will come out. I only have had to take the advice once when in my 30s, coming home from a club, 4am. I drove blocks to get to the police station but when I was in front of it and it was obvious I was going to turn in, my brake lights I suppose, he did a U turn behind me and sped away.
@@yellowleaf28 that was before the advent of smart phones and cameras 😔. It helps a lot to know the lay out of your community, where the nearest fire station and police precinct in your area. When you are nervous and driving, GPS will not be much of help. So knowing in advance your community's layout helps a lot.
My friend and I were being followed by two young teen men. We were in our mid 20s. I held my purse in my hand in case they just wanted to rob us. They did not make a move but kept following. It was late at night. I looked up and saw a light on in a house and went and rang the bell. A man came down and I told him we were being followed. He came out and the two young men were sitting on the next porch. He yelled at them, clearly they didn't live in the neighborhood, and he yelled at them then asked where my car was parked. He waited until we were gone. Also,his wife asked if she should send the dog down. Very grateful for these people.
Thank goodness you noticed the light! I love the wife’s suggestion “ should I send the dog down” my Pitty is a nice dog but not if he feels something is off about someone.
I live in UK once a man was following me and I walked up to a house where the lights were on and rang the doorbell. A woman answered and I told her I thought I was being followed, she called her husband and he walked me the rest of the way home, about another half mile.
My best tip EVER : If you are walking around houses or buildings and someone suspicious walking towards you …ALWAYS wave up and call out past them “HI JOE IM HERE” up to ANY Window dark or lit , it’ll look like someone (a man) is waiting and watching you . The suspicious person will not be able to tell where and who you’re waving to. And they won’t take the chance on you. Use it! Brilliant!
@deniselasalle9545 perfect. The main objective is to make yourself difficult or confusing any way you can so they decide you aren't worth the risk. They will wait for an easier victim. That's why you can and should do or say anything you want that you think will throw him off whatever plan he has. There are no rules or morals when it comes to self-defense.
Great idea. Use a definite man's name for best effect. Joe could be Jo (a woman's name). Use Dave, Mike, Jeff, Steve, Paul, something that leaves them in no doubt they are male.
If I find myself walking behind a lone female or parent/guardian with a child, I immediately cross to the other side and then walk slightly faster to get ahead of them so it is not apparent that there is any threat. In other cases I have changed my route altogether. I began doing this in my twenties (many years ago!) but over the years I have spoken of this habit and you might be surprised by the number of men who have admitted to same. We are animals and our senses are on heightened alert when alone. Once, walking home loaded down with groceries, a young woman was walking toward me. She looked straight in my eyes and said “Mr. Jackson! I didn’t know you were in this neighbourhood!” My name is not Jackson and it was a signal that she needed an “out” from the two men following her and my situation must have let her know that I was not a threat. I stammered a believable response, the two men disappeared and I was able to walk with her to her bus stop. It was a gamble for her but I am glad to have been there at that moment. I know this is a daily concern for millions out there and I wish everyone peace and thanks for this video.
I really appreciate that there are men who think this way. There is a Ryssian youtuber who convincingly dresses as a woman and shows how women are treated when just walking around a crowded city or beach resort town. He was pleasantly surprised to find out that very very few men harassed him. The ones who approached mostly took no for an answer. This is a starck contrast to the world I remember as a kid. Modern men on the whole think and act far differently now. But it is the remaining dinosaurs that make life dangerous for women. These men tend to have nothing to lose.
This brought back a frightening memory - I was in my early 20’s - it was nighttime- a man had followed me and got off the bus behind me (I had noticed his distinctive shoes when I got on the bus). He tried to engage with me but he wouldn’t take no for an answer. Finally he said “I’m not going to hurt you… but I might”. That did it… I marched into the middle of the street and waved down a car - explained to the two men inside what was going on and asked for a ride to my house a couple of blocks away. They said “Sure honey, get in” without thinking I jumped into the back seat. Out of the frying pan and into the fire… ? They unexpectedly were undercover police and chased and arrested the guy who ended up having a record for assault. Trusted my gut that night and luckily I was safe. Still haunts me. 1970’s Oakland CA
I’ve been in that situation- where I asked 2 men that looked like they were gang members for help and I realized I might be putting myself in a worse situation but I had to get away from the creep that was following me 🤷♀️
I’ve said this on multiple posts but there is this amazing book by Gavin DeBecker, The Gift of Fear. It’s about trusting instincts by a man who has serious credentials. One of the things he said that stuck with me is that no man should approach a woman at night to help her and you are safer choosing the person that helps you than allowing the person who chooses you to “ help” you. I always think, they are less likely to view you as prey and less likely to have plans for you.
When I was a teenager, I was walking down a quiet street in the afternoon when a guy in his 40s approached me. He started out by saying how pretty I was and then began telling me obscene things he did with past girlfriends who were pretty like me. Then he brushed my hair off my shoulder and I'll never forget the feeling of his fingers brushing against my neck and how scared I felt. That part of the street was wooded on either side but there were houses just up ahead. I said I lived up ahead (I lied) and I walked in the middle of the street in case he tried to drag me into the woods. He kept walking with me and as soon as I reached the first house, I said I lived there and walked up the driveway to the door and knocked. A lady answered, and I was crying as I explained what happened. She let me in and I called my dad to come get me. I'm 45 and will never forget that moment.
Always trust your gut. I was walking home around 9:30pm from work when I was 17. I was pretty sure I was being followed. I kept an eye on him and went a different route that kept me along a well lit/traveled road. He eventually came up behind me and grabbed me. I started screaming, “WTF are you doing!?!” and shoved him into the street as hard as I possible could. He was stunned. It was clear that he expected to me whimper and say please don’t hurt me. He paused for a minute and then started to lunge at me again so I started screaming and ran to the first house I could and started beating on the door. He took off. Be aware, be loud, be rude, fight back, ask for help bust most of all… trust your gut.
Omfg so glad that you were safe... it's crazy how desperate some people are these days and it's not cool at all. Wishing safety and prayers to any one being stalked outside in the world, because it's a dangerous world out there with people who have ill intentions to harm others. Stay safe from now on
@@mwahha6965 The creator of this video has some very good advice. I've used a couple of these tactics over the years -- blending into a crowd, and staying in a store for a long time until the person following me finally gave up and left.
@@denlaf omgosh! I just remembered: ( and I ve already replied but this just now has come to me..) My Mom Marian (RIP) walking , arm-in-arm singing on 11th Street, South Philadelphia, going to meet Dad a the car after a meal at Cous’ ( Cousins’ ?) Little Italy oblivious to everything. ( year: early 1980’s /79?) Suddenly a yank on the purse. Mom loses her bearings starts to go down . I leaned into that guy - WT…! Freaked out . For one nanosecond as he started to explain that he tripped. I ALMOST gave him the benefit of doubt. “ oh, ok, you tripped…NO. NO NO u didn t ..!” Freaked out all over again. Phew! ( actually there were 2 guys/villians . I stated I forgot about this assault until just now. )No Broadway show tune singing, but I kept my wits about me- TG! ) “ they could have had a gun,” Mom says. Well, they didn t was my reply. We continued to sing but it was edgy! Stay safe all. Praying for the World. ( and I m not a prayiN’ man or mantis! - The can t be funny all the time, but I m going to try! ) Seriously. Seriously praying and funny! When appropriate. Ha!
True story. I was leaving Publix and this guy was just walking too fast in my direction as I headed to my car. I whipped around and looked in dead in the face. It through him off. He was maybe one foot away from me. He bolted in the other direction. Ladies don’t be afraid to OFFEND someone!!! It may save your life!!!
A woman was giving a lecture about protecting yourself. She suggested trying to offend the person, this included yelling at them and if possible, even passing gas!
Bruh I had a similar instance...by sheer coincidence also at a Publix, after i had just bought a couple of groceries and I wasn't sure if I was being followed by a dude (my husband was waiting for me in the car) but he sure looked shady af. Turns out they were. I was in the mood to murder that day, the moment i got to my car, I told my husband loud and clear "found another one!", grabbed my curtain rod and closed the door behind me, turned around with a real big grin and stared into that guys soul. I legit thought to myself "We gon settle this one way or another. Lets see how many sentences I can rack up in one minute" (this is not the first time some man has tried to take advantage of me...) Never seen someone run away so fast that dude must've thought I was some serial killer😂😂 I in no way intended to fight this dude, I just wanted to scare the ever living crap out of him by bluffing because that usually seems to work for some reason. Also I was in the military and I WAS wearing a uniform at the time so that might've helped my case
@@angelacarbon4010I had some really great self-defence classes at high school. One of the tips was, if you happened to vomit from fear, or needed to poop, do it and smear it over you. Because hopefully the smell would put them off, maybe draw attention.
It happened to me one night. Coming back from a dinner at a friend, 30 min walk from my house, on top of the Avenue. At one point, there is no light and the area is pretty isolated, only a retirement house hidden in a large wooden area. I was walking slowly up the hill and from the wood a van started to follow me. I looked and the windows were dark. I continued up, and it was driving very slowly, following me. I had all alarms and red flags ringing, and a bad gut feeling, and was so scared. I assessed the situation: absolutely no one in the street by night, a very desolated point. But feet away a bus stop with light. I hurried there and started to study the schedule. Meanwhile, the van had stopped two feet away and was waiting. My heart was banging in my chest. Miraculously, a young guy appeared to the bus stop and waited with me. The bus arrived minutes later and we both went up and left. I was scared that the van would follow us and catch up when I was going to get out, but it did not. It was a very scary experience….
Another tip: Have your keys ready to get into your car. Get into your car quickly and lock the door immediately. AFTER your doors are locked, THEN settle in: put on your seatbelt, get your sunglasses on, credit card out to pay the lot, etc. I once attended a seminar by a woman who worked in the same building I did and who parked in the same parking ramp that I did. She shared that she had gotten into her car but did NOT lock the door, and started getting herself organized. A guy opened her door and dragged her out. She fought him tooth & nail, and thankfully prevented being raped. She DID have to go to the hospital. Since her seminar, EVERY time I get in my car, I lock it immediately - day or night.
I knew a woman who told us she never locks her car door around men because she doesn't want to hurt their feelings. As though any man will die from hurt feelings.
@@aprilzcornerSubaru’s fob do that…you have to press longer to open all 4, even a different button for the hatch back. Also re-lock before you go to push your shopping cart to the cart pen. You Cannot be too careful.
I was at a cafe once with a friend. A man was sitting at the back of the cafe and was staring at me. I moved my chair so he wouldn't be in my line of view. He moved his chair and kept staring at me. I was pissed off. So I stood up and very loudly said to him across the cafe, "Excuse me, you in the corner, I don't like you staring at me, I'd like you to stop". He looked very embarrassed to have been called out in public. My friend and I left soon after and I never saw him again.
I HATE guys that do that! It always seems to be middle aged and old men that do that too. I had an old creep follow me and stare at the Boise WinCo store in 2011 once. I glared at him and flipped him off. Stopped instantly
My VOICE saved my life! When I was 50, I parked and started walking a few blocks to a music venue one night. I looked around first and saw no one. I walked fast, but instinctively turned around (I heard nothing) and a man was tailing about 7 ft behind me (with a 2nd man standing by their car 30 ft away). He grabbed me in a bear hold, pinning my arms. I had no weapons and couldn't use my hands anyhow, so I started *screaming* ! Twice he said, "Don't scream," but I kept on as loudly as possible. He finally let go and ran towards the other man (their car). I'm lucky to be alive!
You definitely had the right idea to keep screaming. Most of the time they just say, thinking you are too scared to continue. But if you carry yourself with confidence and keep screaming, they'll realize it's too risky to harm you.
It is utterly disgusting how two men can plot and carry out crimes against a girl or a woman, knowing full well they're bigger and stronger! I'm glad you got out of that situation and may you have continued safety wherever you may go. 🩷
@Wishpool It sounds like you’re old now, please give Jesus an honest look before it’s too late. If he’s for real, you have eternity to gain and only some time to lose.
Another tip for the bear hug type situation is to drop your weight. You're a lot harder to pull to another location if they have to fight gravity as well.
A body guard who had been a Police Officer told me when someone acts crazy then you act even crazier back. Nobody wants to follow a crazy loud person… trust me.
@@elisadelaurenti2516 I was once told if someone is attacking you, "shout fire, fire!" and people will come running but if you shout "help" everyone will ignore you...
What I love about RUclips is the comment section. So many people sharing their experiences allows the story of this video to extend beyond the author could tell. It’s given me so many more ideas and examples of what to do if in this scenario. Thanks to all who have shared and know that your voices are heard ❤
My husband and I were walking a trail and there was a group of older teenagers ahead. My gut just felt like something wasn’t right. So I told him, start slowing your pace. They slowed their pace. Ok, this isn’t right. So I stopped to look down into a ravine and point down at the River as a pretend distraction. They too stopped and were waiting for who knows what. I knew if we kept on ahead, where the trail bends further into the woods, past houses, we were doomed. When they started to walk away, I said NOW, and we ran the opposite direction and got out of there really fast. Trust your gut people!
My parents got swarmed by teens in Moscow on a bridge. They had a group behind them and a group in front of them and eight lanes of traffic on the side. They did get mugged but not hurt but I was sad knowing there was nothing they could do beyond stepping into traffic!
@@alrightyruI have actually walked into traffic and walked along the centre line when being followed by a group. It's scary, but it draws the attention of drivers, which makes it extremely difficult for anyone to attack. Even the act of pausing at the roadside while obviously looking for a way across reduces the likelihood of assault, as you clearly have a purpose, which drivers subconsciously notice. The person following you also pauses, because they don't want to follow you into traffic. It works. The group had made their intentions very clear with what they were calling out to me.
Not quite a "followed home" story, but I had a man strike up a more than friendly conversation on a train ride home one afternoon. He wouldn't take the hint, and other passengers were giving me sympathetic looks. I was worried he would follow me off the train at my station. I had a big toolbox with me, and once I got to my station, I quickly got up, and he pointed out the box. "That's a nice toolbox. What's in it?" I turned back and casually said over my shoulder. "Just my knives." The look on everyone's faces was priceless. He was shocked; other passengers just looked at me like, "Oh, she had this!". Should not have been a surprise, I was wearing my chef pants after all.
Heart wrenching news it is to hear of a young woman who went jogging alone on a jogging path through the woods. It’s lovely, I’m sure. Tragically, deadly too. Thank you for the reminder of how to handle this. Especially the eye contact thing. I would have thought total ignoring was best, but I see the sense of staring at him, however briefly, to let him know that you know he has nothing good on his mind, and you’re not having it. True story: A friend worked overtime in a large, multistory city building. She took the elevator to the parking garage. As the doors opened, a gut level feeling rushed over her. She quickly pushed the button for the first floor. To the night security guard there she said “I know you’re going to think I’m just being silly, but would you walk me to my car? I had a bad feeling when I tried to go.” He did so, as she apologized for bothering him several times. The next day he told her “After you left, I thought I should check it out. On one of the levels I heard a noise and then saw him in the distance. I shouted to him and he ran. I didn’t catch him, but from now on I’ll check the garage floors and not just assume everyone’s gone home. And you call and let me know when you’re working late.” How many women are dead because they “didn’t want to bother someone.” Do more videos like this, please.
Virtually every man will be willing to provide a woman with some measure of protection if she's feeling threatened. As long as we're not victimizers ourselves, and most of us are not. Listen to your gut. We won't think you're being silly, and we won't consider your request to be an inconvenience. You are not bothering us.
As a young Aussie girl in the 70’s aged about 10 I was doing my local paper round job when a man driving a car tried to block me in a driveway. I pushed through the bushes blocking the way before he had time to get out of the car and ran to the next house screaming to let me in. Thank goodness someone was home. They called my parents, put my bike in their boot and drove me home. First time I ever had a ride in a Mercedes. 😂 Oh, and I never did the paper-round again. 👍🏻
I was followed by a guy through the centre of London the other month - very busy and at first I thought I was being paranoid but I was not. I crossed the road, I went into a shop and he came in the shop and walked right passed me staring at me. I left the shop - I was freaked out. Now it’s London, it was busy but I was still worried. Next thing, he’s walking at the side of me matching my pace and kept looking g over at me. So at this point I was getting angry. I pulled my phone out and slowed right down it kind of forced him to continue because he would have made it obvious he was following. Then when he was ahead, he looked back a couple of times and I had decided to completely stop outside a shop I know. He then went into another shop just ahead of me - at this point I shot passed and was ready to FaceTime my boyfriend who lived nearby if he came out. But luckily I didn’t see him again.
When working late at night several of us women would all walk to one of the girls car and all of us would get in. The woman driving would then drop off the other girls one by one at their cars thereby seeing everyone was safely in their own car.
Buddy system all the time! I literally don't care if your car is a block away or if you think the area is safe. If you're walking by yourself in the dark, I'm coming with you.
As a young twenty something barber who also did ladies hair I worked at a mall. I had to walk out into a somewhat dark parking lot when I worked late in winter and it got dark early. I was always cautious but my secret weapon was my scalding hot curling iron I heated up to maximum heat every nite before I left. It accompanied me to my car and I never did have to use it. Not sure if everyone knows what that burn feels like but it’s definitely life altering !😂
I was attacked by a guy outside my little hotel in the heart of Paris when I was 21. I was ringing the doorbell for the employee to open as it was 2 am…a guy came from behind and grabbed me by my neck and tried to pull my underwear down…I was in heels and minidress.. I screamed , clawed and stood on his foot and just went wild, punching him…I’m a petite girl, but holy shit I was wild with fear…he ran away.. I’ll never forget that experience. After that, I trained in Muay Thai and carried a stun gun for 6 years..whilst living in Paris and London. I have 2 teenage daughters. Both are trained in Krav Maga, and carry pepper spray. All women should have some basic self defence training… it has truly saved me and given me a lot of confidence. I’m very hyper aware of my surroundings at all times..which is from the trauma..
That is the thing, you know? any man, can, at any time be the one, who is attacking you, dont want to come off as being paranoid, just cautious. always be aware of your surroundings, and the men in there..... Dont be afraid, Bé AWARE! and have some sort of selfdefence with you, on you, even if it is your voice! Be proud of yourself that you stood up to him fight him, any way you could!
@@sunflowersandsand Sure, it is illegal, to carry weapons, In europe too, i just made myself a monkey`s fist it is a very nice "toy", You should look it up, Y T is your teacher! i carry a rather impressive knife, i am petite too, Oh, a small canister hairspray and a lighter will do magic, when used on the eyes, selfdefence style
I (female) always used to walk everywhere, even a bit too late in the evenings as a young (typically naive) woman. I found myself w/o a ride home one night from a party, so I walked through the nice n'hoods alone. A man stepped out from the hedges exposing himself. "Hah!", I said & kept on striding (I always did know the importance of confident posture, at least). He didn't follow me, TG, & I found a big sturdy stick to carry. But then I came upon a young couple who (bored & mean) started mocking me, "Ooh, look at her carrying a weapon... " etc. I was just a teen but thought "to hell with you". I kept the stick, ignored their taunts & got home safely. Women tend to weaken &/or care too much what others may think. If you aren't confident, at least Fake It Till You Make It!
Abraham Lincoln is quoted as having said: Walk softly, and carry a big stick. Don't lead with your face is the softly part. If a "mountain of a man" thought a stick was good... it's good enough for me. Lincoln is respected as a great leader for many reasons. I am not American, and I think he was an excellent role model. People in times past often carried a stick/ cane and knew how to use it. Any chemical in a spray bottle/ can you can weild. Hat pins, long ones with a decorative end are excellent. Hard to disarm you and whether you hit the hand or the groin that person WILL feel it. Give yourself time to get clear.
I totally agree with you that the last thing one should do is to show fear or run. The men who follow (usually) women, are weak and get a thrill out of the hunt if the women turns into 'prey' behaviour. I was followed by such a person in Britain on my way home late at night. I crossed the road and then back to be sure that the person was following. Then I turned around and faced him. I asked 'Are you following me?' He then looked down and shuffled his feet before saying 'Yes!' defiantly. I then saw red and launched into a speech starting with 'WHAT RIGHT do you have to follow me at night etc etc etc. Finally, he said 'Look lady, you go this way and I'll go that'. The second time was in Italy where I was followed by a gang of young men - late teens. I used the same technique with the head of the gang. In this situation he did not want to lose face in front of his 'friends' and started to take a step towards me. I instinctively knew that if he moved, so would the others follow. I immediately took a leap forward towards him, crouched and took up a martial arts stance with my hands ready to attack and made a loud warcry. I did not have any idea of a follow up and was relying on the fact that they didn't know that! I had merely copied what I had seen in films! Luckily, they didn't want to risk it and all turned around and went looking for easier prey. This is not rocket science if you use your brain - if you run you'll defenitely lose and be attacked, in my opinion.
When I was a college student I had to walk home from my job on campus very late at night. I used to carry a very large pair of pointed scissors at the ready.
And maybe lets not embrace the naive lable, Why do we have to be naive for just wanting to have the freedom to exist outside without being terrified of men?
@@CJDane-rf1je Exactly! it is just right down crazy, that we women have to think of objects to defend ourselfs, before we even enter the streets!? So much women hatred! be aware!
I had a therapist who worked at a prison for many years (before working at the outpatient hospital where I met her), who really emphasized how important eye contact is for safety. I was needing help making contact because of my anxiety, but she told me it's important to be able to make eye contact because it shows confidence, like you aren't going to go down easy if someone tries to mess with you. Never forgot that.
one time a loud bus harasser just started to complain about a lady getting on who only had coins to feed the machine and was taking up "precious driving time' b/c the bus couldn't take off with her standing there feeding coins; this lady wasn't apologetic, didn't shrink - she just gave the person on the bus eye contact, and he shut the f*ck up. The rest of the passengers (like me) silently cheered. And I was IMPRESSED, never seen someone shut a loudmouth on the bus up before with a single calm look (she held it). She didn't continue what she was doing, ignoring him, and hoping it would go away. She straight up eye-contacted him. And boy if i could read her look and what she sent out, because it wasn't mean or angry or loud, her eye contact was just calm and something else, and it shut him down quick.
I used to work in an incredibly homeless saturated city where I regularly had interactions with them. I found that the more eye contact I made with those I wanted zero interaction with the more confrontational and willing to follow me they were. So I quit making eye contact and I was more pleased with how I was treated. Another time I was followed to my car and assaulted; I had previously made eye contact with him and said I am not interested in speaking/interacting, trying to show confidence in a public setting. Now I am extremely situationally and self aware wherever I go and always carry a firearm/train with it often. Pepper spray is handy as well. Eye contact is not a cure all and those that wish to harm you could care less about your confidence. I won't say all of them, but in my experience that seems to be the case. Please be careful with what "confidence boosters" you are handing out to people for their safety. I understand that not everyone can just carry around pepper spray and a firearm in the workplace but please think twice before you make eye contact with someone. Value your safety and life by taking more precautions.
Hahahaha ...no.. no no.. no lol if u look someone bad, angry or deranged in the eyes they're going to get aggressive n be like ' what? What u looking at' ... worst suggestion I've ever heard lol
When I was in my 20s I had some night classes and walked to my car fairly late at night. One night when I was walking back to my car, a guy behind me was calling to me and waving to me as though he knew me. I did not know him. I ignored him and continued walking to my car. I got into my car, locked the door, and started my engine. He walked up to my car and motioned for me to roll down my window. I ignored him, put the car in drive and drove off. He got really mad and threw a rock at my car. I learned long ago not to be afraid of offending someone.
I was followed once and didn’t know it. I wasn’t alone either, but was shopping with my parents and my brother. I noticed my brother kinda falling behind and walking behind me a ways. Then I eventually asked my brother why he was doing that and he told me there was a guy watching me and started following me. Thanks to my brother getting in between him and me, that was enough to keep him away. I’m so thankful for my brother.
@@valeriew4833 I am too! Boy, I didn’t even think of that, that he could have been snatched. We were already adults, so he’d be a bit too big to snatch.
oh, i read that you were all together walking; you must've been separated from your family or walking loosely at one point. b/c i didn't understand the loser who would stalk a girl when her family's around
If you're in a densely populated area this could be impossible, for me I live in suburbia so I can key in on somebody acting suspicious or whatever. (Phoenix AZ).
@@americafirst9144 A ploy so common that both criminologists and convicts have coined a term for it. The first calls it an "interview" and the second, a "feel-out". It allows them into control range under the guise of normalcy, occupies your thoughts and hands at the moment of attack, and tests your submission and surrender to further escalated demands...
When ever walking, especially when alone, turn around every minute or so, and make sure no one is following you. I learned this from a native New Yorker - she came up to me and told me that a man has been following me for blocks. She immediately knew I wasn't a native New Yorker and I am forever grateful for her tip which may have saved my life.
A note on 5:03 ; I was taught when younger to only carry weapons I can use well and without panicking or hurting myself. A blade, pepper spray, firearm, etc can be turned on you by an attacker if you’re flimsy with it. If you’re carrying something, make sure you’re trained to use it if you have to.
also be aware of local legislation. Using a knife to fend off an unarmed attacker may lead YOU to be charged. Are you allowed to carry pepper spray or knives? In what situation are you allowed to use force?
You should definitely know how to use any weapon you are relying upon for your own protection, but many women hear this and think "well, if I'm not a police officer/former army/competitive marksman then I'm better off with nothing". This really isn't the case at all. Obviously being competent with your weapon will make you more effective with it, but you don't need some secret esoteric "military grade" training at a specialized school. An afternoon at the gun range with your gun-owning boyfriend/brother/father/uncle/redneck sorority sister is enough to be pretty damn well assured that your gun won't be worse than nothing. Once the bad guy is close enough to use your weapon against you, you're fucked anyways.
When I was in college I went for a run one morning; it was a little after dawn and already light. As I was running a car drove past me very slowly, and I’ll never forget the expression in the eyes of the two men in the car as they looked at me. When the car was about 20 feet ahead of me, I ducked behind some bushes in someone’s yard along the sidewalk. The car turned around and started back past me. They had the window down and I heard one of them say, “Where did she go?” I stayed hidden until the car turned and then I sprinted away as fast as I could. I could hear that car trawling up and down other streets until I was far enough away. I ran straight back to my dorm; I worked out in the gym after that.
I also want to say there is safety in numbers and ask for an escort. I was walking around in a store and a man started to follow me so I asked a big man could he escort me to my car. He was happy to do it and seemed proud of a chance to be a hero.
I’m from NYC. My husband taught me to turn around without breaking stride, look the person up and down and turn back around and continue walking. I had to do this twice. It was terrifying, but it works. People with bad intentions do not want to be identified. Great video, cheers everyone!
I have instinctively done that..looked them straight in the eye and said "Is there something I can help you with?" in a commanding tone. Knocks them off guard and puts you in charge. But even before that, keeping distance is KEY.
I think it's eye contact because you can't identify them if you're unalive. I was in a situation where my life was in danger, and I was about to look down, and a voice said, "Look him straight in the eyes. It worked his demeanor change, and he left. They are looking for you to be weak and scared. I think that's what men get off on. I was scared but I did my best not to show it.
@@Abena_Goddess87 You are correct. They want you to feel fear and it’s no fun for these type of guys if you are not scared of them. They are cowards as well as perverts.
I've been followed twice. Both in my 20's before mobile phones, I managed to go into a shop & shouted really loud, pointed at him " that man is following me, call the police!" He ran! In the UK we don't have weapons. After that I learned my lesson. I always have a small can of hairspray in my coat pocket & carry a long umbrella 🌂. 2nd time it went on too long, did the eye contact & crossing the road, he followed me from town centre shopping & I was only 500m from my car. I had no choice but to turn around & confront him, stood strong, authoritative voice! Spray in hand pointing at his eyes, umbrella pointed at his neck & giving me distance. Told him "I'm ex army do you really want to continue this, you'll end up in A&E (ER), turn around & walk away!" His reply "f*ck, sh*t, alright I'm going!" I was shaking afterwards, I'm not ex army, total B/S.😅 However, I noted his features & what he was wearing & reported him to the police when I got home!
if it's life or death / kidnapping / robbing / car-jacking / rape / gangs of thugs / weirdos .... going to do YOUUU "Harm" ... you Neeed "Somethingggg" that Willl Stoppp them !! just Remember this (and Tell those that you "Care" about, ... "It's better to be Judged by 12 - than Carried by 6 !!" .... Life vs Death ! - ... i choose Life, every time !! hope you have a "Safe" and Happy New Year !! 👍🎉🎇🎊🎆 🙏
Same in Australia, no weapons, but we can make our own like your hair spray. Always carry something that can disable a person's eye sight, hold car keys in your hand with the point of the key between your fingers securely, wear large rings that can tear at skin. I've been followed several times, both in the city and isolated country areas. Each time I got out of the situation without the need for a true weapon.🇦🇺
@@krisushi1Keys in your fingers will do absolutely nothing. They will rip them from your hand and break your fingers. I suggest carrying a metal ball point pen on your shirt. It’s inconspicuous and will do damage if you aim for the soft spots: eyes, cheeks, throat. Speaking from experience.
You would be labeled rac1st or islamophob1c if the sh1t was one of the two types! Look what happened to that British school b0y and the Syr1an abus£er-turned-v1ctim!Tommy Robins0n investigated the story, exposed the truth, and is now in a solitary cell! UK is going downhill!😢😮
I was in a bus station at night in rochdale in the early 90s and i had missed my last bus so i was going to walk home as i didnt have money for a taxi..as i started to walk i noticed a man in the facing terminus walk the same way watching me..i stopped and he stopped..i walked the other way and he did too and he was smirking, i will never forget his menacing face..it was very quiet and i was really scared..i noticed an empty bus pull in and i jumped on it and asked the driver for help. He watched the man and radioed security and he drove me off the bus station and up onto the main rd close to my home. I dont know who that driver was but i will never forget his kindness getting me home safe. X
Back in the late 80’s, I was a sophomore in college, and very dumb and naive. My then roommate and I decided to take a study break, during an all-nighter, at 2am to go for a walk around our off campus housing neighborhood. I still remember the man. He wore a brown leather jacket and white pants with longish brown hair. At first, I thought he was also just taking an early morning stroll but after a few zig zag paths around the neighborhood, it was clear he was following us. We were so frightened and saw an apartment complex with a wide stairway leading up to a brightly lit area in front of the complex. The complex had an open atrium but had metal bars and doors for security. We stood there not knowing what to do. My roommate started nervously whistling as the man started up the stairs. All of a sudden a voice in the darkness of the atrium said “what is all this whistling noise”! The man scrambled down and ran off as soon as he heard the voice. It turned out the land lady lived on the first floor of the complex near the atrium, and heard the whistle echo in the atrium while she was going to the bathroom. She invited us into her unit and let us call our other roommate to pick us up. I truly think God was watching out for us! Since then, I never take safety for granted.
One tip I learned in a self-defense class: always have an imaginary set of two males behind you or in front of you whose names you call if you are attacked. For example, if someone approaches you from the front, turn and yell behind you "Mike, Dave!" If you have this in mind, it will look like it's true when you do it if you don't hesitate, and they will think there are two males not too far away. I also sometimes do a fake wave to an imaginary person in the distance if it seems plausible in the situation.
I am in the UK and I arrived near my university for an open day - I was a mature student helping to show potential new students around. It was 9am on a Sunday morning, and a man started following me. No-one was around , so I started swinging my arms and walking with purpose, he carried on following me. I turned around to face him , staring at him , looking him right in the eye, and said in a low rough cold voice - ' can I help you?' He turn round and started walking the other way again... job done! I am a 5 foot 1 inch tall female , but he wasn't going to intimidate me...
Unfortunatley, the "can I help you?" doesn't always work. I once got into the stairways of my apartment building as a student and was creeped up by a drunk stranger. He mistook this for a genuine question despite me being really cold and confronting, and his answer was that he wanted me to give head. Luckily I managed to get out of this situation with a full display of aggression (much like a very hissing and angry cat), wriggling past his drunken self when I was backed up into a corner and taking my mobile phone, dialing 110 (police in Germany) on the way outside. He then ran away, but not without yelling "I didn't want you anyway", of course. 🤦♀️
Might want to shout, "Have you met Jesus?!? Lemme tell you about Jesus cos I can tell you need to meet your Maker!" If someone said that to me I'd be out of there, and I'm not a bad guy but a retired woman. There's no nut like a religious nut.
I was 13 years old. Alone. Walking 3 blocks away from my home. Going 3 more block to the candy store. I had permission to spend my babysitting money on sweets. It was shortly after 1pm on a hot summer day. I was walking in my neighborhood . On the sidewalk going with the flow of traffic. The street was lined with the houses of friends all around me. Just a usual long, lazy, hot summer day. I was dressed in a matching short and top outfit, popular in the early 1980s. Got it for my birthday, just days before. I had on tennis shoes with no socks. Lots of waist length flowing, pretty blonde hair. A car pulled up to the curb. The lone male driver called out to me from his car for help. I innocently walked over. He unlocked the front passenger door and asked me to hop in. I hesitated . He said I was so pretty and that he could take good care of me. He showed me a very pretty necklace. He said it could be mine . Just get in. I was frozen. Suddenly, another car appeared on the street. The lone male driver talking to me panicked. He closed the car door and left me scared, confused, speechless and still frozen on the curb. That unknown driver of the other car saved me that day. By just showing up. It took years for me to realized how close I came to being abducted. In my OWN neighborhood. Just 3 blocks from home. SAFETY TIP: I now ALWAYS walk AGAINST traffic…and so should you!
As someone who has experienced being followed only to be told by my (then) partner that I must have imagined it, I just want to say a huge thank you for believing your wife. When I was in my twenties, I was followed around a busy London park. I had gone there to enjoy a packed lunch and to spend the afternoon sketching the wildfowl. It was while changing location and looking around that I became aware of a guy who appeared to be following me. As it was very busy, it could have been that he was simply strolling in the same direction so, I crossed a broad, busy footbridge, looked back to see him crossing the bridge as well then I doubled back over it. When he did the same, it was all the confirmation I could ask for and I decided that I needed to just get away because, if he caught up with me in such a crowded park, I sure as hell would have caused a scene but, I knew that he would be able to either deny what he was doing or just melt back into the crowd. The park flanked a wide, open road that led up to Buckingham Palace and I figured that if there weren't any taxis on the road, I would surely find a policeman as I neared the palace (this was the 80s, mobile phones, if they existed at all, were still at the housephone-and-car-battery stage of development). To reach the road, I had to cross a broad expanse of open lawn, that at least made me visible to passing traffic and enabled me to get a good view of the park. I walked at speed to reach the road, looked back and there he was, still at walking speed but cutting across the grass towards me to catch up. All I had weapon-wise were pencils but, even though I was scared, I was also furious that this absolute creep had robbed me of my right to enjoy the park and made me feel unsafe. I was almost tempted to just turn around and charge right at him, I felt that angry. Anyway, not a policeman in sight but I did manage to flag down a cab and get away. I felt frightened, frustrated and just wanted to go home. At least (I thought) I had the comfort of a thoughtful, supportive partner to turn to, once I got home but, no. He flatout accused me imagining it and overreacting. After the experience I'd had, to be let down the one person I thought I could rely on for support was crushing. It was easily two decades before I felt confident enough to enjoy being in a park by myself again but I don't think that I've ever fully trusted a partner to not let me down sooner or later again. I know that it's not the focus of this video but, believing someone when they tell you about any kind of harrowing experience that they've endured, means so much to that person and makes a huge difference to their moving on from it.
Definitely, the callous response of an ignorant, unsupportive, disillusional partner can be just as bad as the horrifying ordeal you just escaped. Seriously traumatizing to be discredited after that. That hurt lasts longer, because he's _not_ the "bad guy."
I was driving a city delivery route and stopped at a convenience store. My doors we're locked and I sat there organizing before I went in to get something. I glanced up and saw a guy standing at the right corner of the building. I continued what I was doing but immediately knew something was wrong. I glanced back up and he turned to the darkened left corner of the building, gave one head shake to a guy there. They both looked at me sitting in my car, I put it in reverse and left. I believe I was going to be robbed or car jacked. Mom taught me to always be aware of my situation.
If we walk out to our car, or are driving in a lot, we really watch the loiterers, we avoid them if possible. We make sure we change course if they’re hanging too close to our car..or wait til a group comes out with you..
I'm extra-aware when I'm returning to my parked car, or when I'm in a gas station. If I'm at a gas station and it's nighttime, I try to choose a pump close to the convenience store. When I'm filling the tank, my doors are all locked, and if I'm carrying a purse, it's out of sight under the front seat. When I lock the doors, I do it manually instead of using the key fob. That way, when I'm getting in afterward I open the driver's door with the key, which allows all the other doors to remain locked. (Using the fob would unlock all the doors, and someone could jump in). While I'm pumping the gas, rather than looking at my phone or watching the commercial playing on the pump, I remain aware and observe everyone around me. I lock my doors the same way in parking lots. Especially during the holidays, there are sometimes people walking around the lot scoping out cars and likely up to no good. This includes people who are walking around "selling fruit." I won't go near my car if someone like that is nearby. If they remain near my car, I would go back to the store and ask for an escort. I actually did this one time at a fast food restaurant in Arizona. My truck was parked fairly close to the door and I could clearly see it, but some people that had obviously been asking for handouts in the lot were standing around my truck and not leaving. That made me uneasy, so I asked one of the fast food workers if they could walk me to my truck, which they gladly did. As soon as we came out together, the beggars walked away.
The first time I felt I was being followed was late at night, I ducked into a pub, explained the situation, the police were called, and they gave me a lift home. The second time was in the afternoon. I saw the guy a few times in the supermarket, I noticed he came out after me without purchasing anything, he got on the same bus, and got off at the same stop. When I crossed the road, he did too. The whole time, his focus seemed to be on me, and I don’t want this guy knowing where I live. Thankfully, I knew my neighbour, Pete, fairly well, knew he was likely to be home, and had his number (my first mobile phone... yes, I'm that old!), so I phoned him, but continued to walk. I figured I was safer if the guy following didn't realise I'd rumbled him because there's not many houses, only fields across the road, and far too many places I could be dragged to out of sight. So, when Pete answered, I said I'd just got off the bus, so he knew where I was, I've got X beer ("I think you have the wrong number") they only had the large pack ("you in trouble?) yes, it's really heavy, could you come help carry it? ("Stay on phone, keep talking.")... How he managed to get out, down the side road and around the corner into view so quickly I don't know, but I'm very grateful he did! He said that when he came into view, the guy following stopped, looked around, and then ran off down a side track.
a female comedian - rachel feinstein - was in one of those middle of state states doing a show and staying at a random hotel - the maintenance guy talks to her at the front desk as she was talking to reception and says he needs to fix something in her room - they go up the elevator together, they walk down the hall together with him trailing her, and when they get to the door of her room, she takes out her phone and starts checking her tour dates - he asks her if she's going to come inside and look at what's wrong, she says no, you go ahead and fix whatever needs fixing, and continues to check her phone (all the while getting all sorts of danger signals regarding him). He openly drops the act, doesn't "check on what needs checking on" in her room, and simply leaves to go back downstairs.
That's so creepy. I was once on the bus and could feel a guy at the front of the bus staring at me. I looked up to make sure my spidey senses were correct and, yup, a guy about my age was just intently staring at me. I looked back up at him a couple of minutes later with a look that said, "why are you staring at me?" but of course, this didn't deter him, and he kept staring. So I decided I was going to stand at the back exit (which is toward the middle of the bus) as if my stop was coming up and sure enough he got up and stood at the front exit where he was sat by and that's when he started smiling while staring at me. The bus comes to a stop and I start to go down the couple of stairs of the exit but stop before getting off, and I see him exit the bus. Then I turned around and sat back down and this man looked so dumbfounded and stupid as he watched the bus leave with me still on it 😂😂
I can’t help being desperately sad that women have to think this way - what is wrong with society that we can’t feel safe walking to our car, home or work???!!! What is heartening is all those good people who have helped when asked.
67 female now but at 15 yrs old I was walking to my grandma's 2.5 blocks up the street. She called at around 9 p.m. wasnt feeling well so I told her I would come spend the night and leave mom a message at work knowing she would stop and check on us when she got off at 11 p.m. I had one block to go and was nervous as the same car drove by 3 times. Gut told me hide. There was a house 3 doors away that was empty. I ran into a backyard and crossed 2 yards to get to that home. Luckiest day of my life, door was not locked. I ran in, locked the door, cried so hard. After about 15 minutes no longer heard any car, looked out windows on all sides of home that had windows and hit the street running, 3 doors to grandmas. Made it but since that day I never walk alone especially at night. Never know where the creeps are.
@eileeneamon9070 it's such a crazy world out there. I would be afraid to live in the US. I'm female, short, thin, not driving, I walk a lot. Everytime I hear or read stories like this, I almost paralyze, I feel what the target (don't wanna say victim) feels.
Bahahahahahaha! It was me that night! I’m now 87! Na,sorry love,it not funny& glad you alive to post story.Im not from the States but from NZ& read so many horror stories of crime of all sorts in America!
I live in NYC and I just got off the train making my way out the subway. I noticed this dude that was in the same car I was in got off too and was walking behind me. He kept walking up the stairs and kept right behind me. He did this for a bit until I turned around and yelled as loud as I could, why are you following me!!!! The look of terror on his face said it all. He ran. I had a few folks come up to me to ask if I was okay. Not gonna lie I was scared but I was mad as hell too. I no longer walk with headphones on either and I am very aware of my surroundings. Stay safe and alert folks! Happy New Year!!
My daughter was followed by a crazy guy from manhattan to Brooklyn. She ducked into a bodega and they called the cops. Glad you’re ok, you did the right thing.
I did that once too but I was getting into my car and they asked for money, I told then no they then tried to come closer to me forcing me back into my car with them on the other side of the car door and instead of getting in, I pushed my door open into them and yelled get the eff away from me and they turned and left quickly lol
@@CuriousandCultured Well, I only reiterated cuz she said she no longer walks with headphones on. --- but yes, people should be more vigilant and aware of their surroundings. And looking at your phone is not being aware of your surroundings.
Excellent advice, Daniel. I’d like to add that people also shouldn’t distract themselves with texting or listening to music while walking or even when stationary, such as waiting for a bus. Besides decreasing situational awareness, these activities can actually attract criminals in the first place because they signal that you’re distracted and hence easier to sneak up on.
I shop in a sketchy commercial area always at 6am. I carry a bogus "shopping list". When ever I fell someone staring at me, with ill intent, for no good reason, I break psychic contact, by looking down at my list. It has served me well, until now...Of course, when looking down, my radar is on high alert.
I don't blame victims EVER. It's always the criminal's fault. But that is something I am wondering too. When you go outside you listen music with your earphone's😮😮. I never ever do that. Only In a buss or city full of people In daylight. Not on my walk's and not In the dark. Coz I want to sure I can hear everything all the time and listening music people usually dissapear In they're own world. And i walk middle of the road/sidewalk so if someone is gonna attack me I will see them corner of my eye and have time to react and I have really small scissors with me😂.
I was a kid in Phoenix AZ, in the 80"s. I hadn't lived there long. I went to PV mall with my mom and my sister. I walked away from them to do my own thing, I was a total geek and I walked super fast so when a grown man was keeping up with me it was very disturbing. I went into a book store and stood next to the register until he left. My heart was racing I knew he had bad intentions. I was 12 at the time. I am glad I listened to my intuitions.
Thank God you listen to your intuition could have also been your angels guiding you and giving you full warning that this guy is some kind of scum pervert
I was once followed in a quiet shopping center, by two men. The moment I walked out of the Bank, I saw them watching me as I was walking in their direction. As I turned around one of the corners in the shopping center, I could feel that they were following me. What happened next was an absolute miracle from God. As I was walking, I heard Holy Spirit commanded me to "Turn around!!!" I knew if was to give another step, then they would grab me. So, immediately I turned around and they were right behind me and I walked right in between them. They could've easily grabbed me, but it was such a swift move, that I caught them by surprise. I then turned around again to see what they were doing and saw the two men had split up in different directions. I quickly went into the nearest shop and stayed there until I felt it was safe to get to my car. All glory to God!
It'd be a lot easier if a kinder god didn't create feelings like that in people. My sister was Christian and attacked by 2 men as a teen and still has scars. All those poor kids attacked by priests. Hmmm I guess god just prefers you and let's the rest suffer. Lucky you.
I was riding a bike on a quiet neighborhood street a car turned onto the street behind me. I felt afraid of this car from that moment i knew they came this way because they saw me. So, I went on the sidewalk. He pulled past me stopped and got out walked to the back of the car. I went back on to the street to make a wide arc around him. He said excuse me in a friendly tone, and then lunged at me as i steered around him just out of reach. Lucky my gut had me strategizing from the first moment. Never ignore that feeling. Its clear as a bell.
@@StasiaLund-uc8oq similar experience--i was driving in a rural area and came upon a kid on a bike who was cornered by a man in a truck. I just pulled up and asked the man if he needed directions finding someone and the kid took off like he was shot out of a cannon. Having had many experiences with pervs in my youth I just recognized the kid was scared and alone --always been glad I gave the kid an out and if the man wasn't a perv no harm was done
A million years ago...back in the 80s my friend and I worked for the same gas station company. I worked at the west side store, Bill worked at the eastside right on the interstate. He was shot in the head and killed at work in a robbery, guess that was 1982. Two years later, I was filling in at that exact station. At closing time, midnight, a monte carlo pulled up slowly, sat for a few minutes near the farthest pump, then slowly drove off. It did this 3 times. The last time, I let them see the revolver I had. They drove off for good. I quit soon after
Many times when a person decides to attack someone, they aren’t picky about who they attack, they just want to attack somone (they may be looking for someone of a certain sex, age range, and possibly race but they may not care if it’s one particular person or another). If they can tell right away that there’s something about you that may make you harder to attack while they remain unscathed, they may leave you alone and look for another potential victim. During a study, inmates that were serial attackers were asked if there were ever times that they had chosen a person to attack but then noticed something that person was carrying and decided not to attack that person and look for another victim. Most said “yes”. The number one item that an attacker had observed that made them decide to move on to some other potential victim?: an umbrella. Especially a long umbrella (not the compact kind). (A closed one is best).
Excellent advice. As a young lawyer, I worked very late nights in a very urban setting and parked in a multi-level parking garage. I walked standing tall to maximize my confident body language. I, too, on more than one occasion crossed the street. Like your wife, once the man crossed the street after me. I greeted a business man (not the perp) like I knew him and joined him as he walked toward me. He understood immediately and played along. Whenever possible, I tried to get someone from the firm to walk with me (most of us parked in the same structure which was 2 blocks from our building). I carried a Kubaton in my hand, as this was before pepper spray was readily available. I, too, stopped and turned around and made eye contact and once said "Back off" in a very loud voice. I think that not appearing to be weak or an easy target probably saved me more than once, as well as seeking safety in numbers. Excellent advice and thank you for this video.
A few years back I watched an interview with a female FBI agent talking about this topic. She said people are raised to be congenial/Polite and agreeable to strangers out in the world. She said because of this fact people often ignore their uneasy gut feelings and wind up being victimized or worse - killed. She said if you are getting a weird vibe, don’t hesitate to make a scene because at the end of the day you don’t know this person who is making you uncomfortable. Better to be alive than dead. With that said her advice took me back many many years ago when I was living in Boise Idaho. I met up with friends downtown. I’m not a drinker and I was driving and alone. I had to park a bit a ways away from our meetup. On my way to my car at 1am I was walking on the left side of the street sidewalk. I looked over and this guy was on the opposite sidewalk getting ready to cross over slightly ahead if me. As soon as I saw him veer off the sidewalk I yelled over “Don’t even think about it, don’t come over here!” I said it a couple times. He stopped in his tracks and got back on his side. Funny thing is it was more of a knee jerk reaction on my part or projectile vomiting. There was no stopping me from yelling at this guy. Always, always listen to that small voice.
Exactly on point. I can attest I have done the same as you mentioned. A few times I have turned around and yelled, crossed the street and maintain posture and brisk walk. I will often have a key between the fist to strike a blow if necessary. Vigilance and how you carry yourself make a difference.
@@Supportfreespeech That is really awesome advice. And yes, we are taught to be 'nice' to people and see the best in them. The truth is that screaming at someone who might be a threat, and is a stranger, has absolutely no down side. For others who are interested in why you should trust that little alarm in your head, read the book "The Gift of Fear, Survival Signs that Protect us from Violence." It is written by Gavin de Becker and there are lots of cheap, used copies out there. It is one of the best books I've ever read and a must read for women. You also cannot put it down!
I was " mobbed by a group of male teens ranging from id say 13 up to 20, there were 11 to my count, as i got out of my car in my apt buildings secure underground parking garage. 60yrs old, 5ft 4 woman, and this group suddenly surrounded my car and back talking at me. I worked as an ER Nurse for many years so I just put on my authoritive loud voice saying, " you dont belong down here. WHY ARE YOU HERE. Others trying car doors joined them. The youngest kids headed for the stairs out, but the older bigger guys said " we can do what we want"... with that i slid into my car, id not closed the door yet, and started it and threw it in reverse, and started backing up .. the entire mob ran for the exit with me following in reverse. I dont have a cell phone, so i drove to the nearest police station, and made a report. Describing the 2 leaders best i could. The cops escorted me back, roused the apt landlord, whom we cant bother after 5pm. He knew which apt one of the leaders was visit8ng his grandmother in, because hed had issues with him. So i took a cop and re parked. And the other cops and landlord advised the grandmother of eviction, and got nane of most of the mob. Never saw them again.
I was followed once while taking out the garbage at a Mall I worked at in Phoenix, Az. I was in my twenties back then. I went through an employee entrance that led to the dumpsters in the back of the mall. I didn't know at the time that someone had been watching or following me. I just remember when I was throwing away stuff I got a creepy crawly sense and turned back a few feet to see why and a white man who looked to be in his 30's-40's, in blue jeans, a long sleeved shirt and Winter type vest with dark sunglasses on, and a beard, was leaning against the back entrance doors where I had just come from...and he wasn't an employee. The hallway where the stranger was blocking the entrance back, is long and secluded and he had just came out of it. He must have figured I had to go back that way. He was leaning against and guarding the doors that lead back into the mall while staring at me with a grin as I was throwing trash away. But he didn't know there was also another employee exit that was right behind me just inches where I stood. I knew the whole Mall as I worked at two stores in it. I noticed there was a security guard parked close to the area talking to some customers and the man kept glancing back and forth between the guard waiting to get back in his vehicle and drive away and also me. Then I noticed that parked next to the dumpster, like it was a truck making a deliver, was a huge Diesel truck, very nice, with one of those sleepers in the back, it also had a back too like it was hauling goods. The man kept looking at that too. The truck was parked so close to the dumpsters. That's when I turned around and opened the door behind me and ran to the other store exit where I also worked and went into a back entrance that led into a very populated food court area. The man was far enough away from where I stood that he could not reach me fast enough while the security guard was in the area as well, even if busy and far away, mall security was still screaming distance away. I don't know what that stranger was up to, but it made my skin crawl that day I was throwing trash away. I just felt like something was watching me and sure enough someone was. He had no business being in the employee hallways, and the way he stood there with arrogance blocking my way back in...that was especially creepy. Never ignore your God given instincts.
@@corinneyaworski-mh9uc I forgot to add that when I walked through the back way into the food court from the employee hallway, I was at the other end of the food court and away from the customer entrance, that is when I saw the man walking ahead of the food court looking around from the customer entrance, so as soon as I took off from the dumpster he must have walked through the dumpster area. Why go back into the mall?, why was he around that area to begin with? Who ever he was, he was using the wrong hallways to get through the mall, he wasn't an employee. The mall is like a small city withing itself, everyone knows everyone, even who the guys are who deliver goods. This guy was creepy. I never saw him after that day, I believe he was a traveling trucker and he must have been walking around when he saw me going through the secluded employee hallways and followed me without me knowing at that time. I didn't even go back to the original store I came from, I went to the other store I worked at and told everyone what happened. I was being extra safe so the guy didn't know where I originally came from. I watched him from behind as he walked through the mall and then left, he didn't know I was behind him at that point. It is like being followed when you are driving home, if that happens, never take them to where you live, drive to a police station or busy area and call the cops
This brought back horrible memories. I was travelling solo and twice in two different cities I was doggedly followed by men, on each occasion I made eye contact to let them know I saw them, and I could see they didn't care. I even shouted loudly for them to stop following me, and they smiled and I could see it became a game for them, at this point I was close to tears because I could see my 'NO' wasn't valid and what would they do when they had access to me. On one of the occasions I saw a taxi going towards a different direction I ran in front of it. He didn't; want to take me, I started crying and pointing, he didn't speak English but understood. He took me to my accommodation and waited until I got inside the gates. The man that was following me stood outside my accommodation for over an hour just staring. We had security on the door if we hadn't I have no idea what he would have done, the second occasion I knew it was either going to be him or me and I got myself as tough as I could to the point I thought I would rip him apart if I had to or go down fighting and when I turned to address him with that energy, he was gone, a police car had just driven by, I think it may have saved me. Guns and pepper spray are illegal in the UK where I live, and I daresay this happens to women more often than you might think.
I am also in the UK and am worried about the fact we can't hold weapons and the culture (see the comment from someone in London) that people don't help others in this situation. I was followed and pestered by a weirdo just a few days ago but I was in Spain. A weird guy was following me and he was saying stupid things to me. I speak Spanish but pretended I didn't understand to get rid of him. He still kept on. I shouted at him to go away. He did, then returned a minute later walking right next to me saying the same things over and over again. I changed direction and he still followed me. This was day time and it was just bad luck nobody was on the same path. Then I spotted a group of women. I shouted to them in Spanish what he was doing and he started saying stupid things to them and they told him to get lost. They told me to walk with them and we walked the opposite way and one had a dog and said she will set the dog on him if he came back. I heard that pepper spray is legal in Spain but there's no way I'd get on a flight with that from the UK. Maybe someone else in the comments can give us ideas. We can't carry guns, knives or pepper spray :(
I had a paper route in a downtown neighborhood when I was young and learned a lot as some of my fellow paperboys had been mugged. A few things when walking alone which I still do to this day: 1. Never go more than 100 yards or so (less if you suspect something) without looking back. 2. Never walk too close to the buildings....give yourself a bit of space in case someone is waiting in a doorway, behind a building abutment etc. The couple of seconds a few feet of space gives you can be the difference between your life and your death. 3. Make sure you know how to punch. You can lose your balance with kicking. In a sudden encounter one swift very hard punch and a quick gettaway can save your life. 4. Be careful with weapons unless you have training in how and when to use them. A weapon taken from you can be used against you. 5. Never never never let a cell phone, ear buds, etc. distract you. 6. Just because you have a friend or two with you, don't completely let your guard down. Criminals know how to gang up on people. All the best and stay safe!!
I love to hike. Iwas hiking with my young 1 1/2 year old Rottie was with me. I felt like I was being watched on the trail, she was getting skittish. She kept looking behind us. I listened to her, we took a path that took us back, another way. We got in the car,locked the doors and left. It was a State park, though I never saw anyone, I am to this day sure we were being followed. She was a young Rottweiler, but still a protective. Years later, same park, but older male Rottweiler, well trained. We were stopped on a path, stood aside on the trail while 2 men passed. My dog sat in front of me with a low growl, he alerted them that he was watching. They moved on and didn't bother me. Dogs are great in this situation.
Years ago, the same thing happened to me when I was hiking with my dog. In our case I'm pretty sure we were being watched by a mountain lion. My dog was a retired guard dog and was not shy, but he just acted "different" that time. Maybe it was a young one, or maybe it just wasn't hungry, because we were able to get out of there. We never hiked in that area again.
@@TwistedQuestionMark Yes, actually it would. All that yapping and looking back and restless behaviour will draw attention and the person who follows you. Dachshunds usually have the bark of a bigger dog and that may surprise whoever is following you. Also your dachshund will realize someone has ill intent and following you before you do. Remember the potent poison comes in small bottles.That's the real answer but yea it's funny too, I get it.🐕💞
Yes I’ve been in this situation. Late at night. I sped up and hooked on to the shoulder of a large guy walking in front of me. I just kept walking right behind him. He looked down at me and I smiled up at him at which point he glanced behind him and saw the dude following me. I think he understood what was going on and turned his head to really look at the guy behind us - who then vanished.
@ they might be. But if you end up in a situation like this your ability to read energies enhances so high it’s like reading a book. The first guy was “locked” onto me. You feel that. It’s how you know you’re being followed. The second guy had no idea I was there. If he was working as a pair I’d have felt the connection to me.
Be careful trying this!, I was once being followed by a man in a store, I turned around and started following him in return, he seemed shocked, turned around and walked quickly out of sight . These type situations depends, there is no one size fit all solution
I did that too one time. Really startled the guy and he took off the other direction. I was on a deserted neighborhood street in the middle of the day, didn't have much choice but to try that one. I stopped walking alone like that afterwards in lonely areas. Really shook me.
Also, here’s a nice thing that people can do to help each other feel safe, when my husband goes walking in the neighborhood and he sees a person approaching or especially if he ends up behind a woman, he crosses to the opposite side of the street. My son in law (who IS the brute squad LOL) does the same, these are guys who have listened to our stories and have taken us seriously, and yeah, my husband was followed so he knows how it feels.
isn't that nice, it is so nice when men cross the street when they see a woman. I have never seen men do that to me, they seem to be totally ununaware that women get scared if a man runs from behind them or gets too close. My bf was followed by a man from the toilets
I'm an older 5 foot tall woman, living in Australia. Late one night, I got off a train. Walking home in the dark, I heard footsteps behind me, getting closer and closer, then a man's voice say "Don't be afraid. I'm just going to pass you" and I saw the figure of a tall young man with his long legs, walk past me. Even though I wasn't afraid, I was very touched by how considerate and respectful he was, knowing that there are a lot of good men/ people in this world.
Assume you are being followed anytime you are out and make it a habit to turn around to confirm you are not. As a woman walking alone, this is the best advice I've gotten and still use today. There have been times I was indeed being followed or being closely monitored from afar and wouldn't have noticed until it was too late. I also leave and enter my building from different exits so no one can keep track of my schedule. Never tell strangers you live alone. Pretend you are on the phone and say, "Ok meet you outside/downstairs" if someone is making you uncomfortable in a store or mall. You can also say, "I just sent you my location" if you are actually talking to someone or pretending to. You can always approach other people and ask them to pretend you know each other if someone is making you feel unsafe. Carry a compact pepper spray with a clip in your bra or inside your jacket in case your purse is stolen with some loose cash and/or a credit card when walking alone especially at night. Pepper spray at the bottom of your purse won't help you. It must be ready to deploy at any moment. Stay safe.
I was walking to a friends house from the subway in south philly and ended up behind a local teen, and I'll never forget - he just casually turned around to check who was coming up behind him. As a suburban white chick in my 20s at the time, I had still had this feeling of "maybe it's rude if I turn around to look at someone," but when this kid did it in his own neighborhood I realized there is nothing rude about being safe. I do it no matter where I am and never feel bad about it.
I’ve had this happen multiple times and I’ve done what you’ve suggested. What was scarier was when I was on a hiking trail and this happened. I’d like to hear your thoughts on that. For me I happened to be carrying a 9mm that I was proficient in using and if it wasn’t for that I think I would have lost my sh*t in fear. I happened to know the trail and hid in a spot that if he saw me I’d have a clear shot but he passed by. After he passed by I booked it. When I got back to my car he wasn’t too far behind me and showed up out of the trail head into the parking area. So he had doubled back looking for me. I was young and way out in the middle of nowhere Oregon wilderness. I never went alone again. I got spooked again just writing this. There’s times when you know you’re being tracked by someone.
In a self-defense class many years ago, the officer teaching it told the story of his wife in a frightening situation. Fearing rape, she squatted down and shat her pants, making it an unwelcoming idea. One of the smartest things I've heard. Messy, yes. Smart, absolutely. Don't ever stay in danger because you don't want to bring attention to yourself. Yell, make noise, etc. All better than really bad things that could happen. And every female should attend self-defense classes before high school and college. I hate that this is true, but it is. Be aware, ladies. And thanks to the gentlemen who realize how scary this is and take steps to make us feel safer.
Interesting, I always thought people who are sick enough to do something like that anyway wouldn’t care if things got “messy.” I guess they have some standards
When I was definitely followed as a teenager by grown up man. I crossed the street and all but he was really following me, i turn towards nearest bigger shop. They were selling clothes. I quickly mingled between people, grabbed 2 hoodies from nearest rail and disappeared into fitting room. from there I could see him, looking for me as I watched him. When he was far from my place a went out and got safely on the bus. I am so happy that I had this reaction!!
So many mentally ill out there in the world They are everywhere.... Sometimes I think it's 50% of the population... What I mean is 50% of the population has some sort of mental issue even if it's just anger or extreme anger, not that 50% of the population follows women
Just a funny quick story! Back in the 70’s I was in my mid twenties. I had long hair a little past my shoulders. I was followed home after leaving a bar with friends one night. I was armed and knew I was being followed. I pulled up in front of my home. The guy following me pulled up right behind me. When I got out & he saw my facial hair, he pulled away rather quickly. Guess I wasn’t his type! 😂
Be as intimidating as you can you. I've been followed multiple times in my life. My favourite move is when they're stalking subtly bit behind opposite side of the street. I stopped, stared him out then proceeded to turn and cross the street towards him yelling "you thinks it's effing cool to follow a single woman all creepy?" He spun on his heel and ran off. One time dude was actually innocent and told my friend that I was so aggressive he thought I was going to rob him or something
yep I've always said this.. you might have the physical prowess of wet cardboard, but if you are actually scary aggressive people back off. Yes it might not affect all of them but most of them are cowards (which is why they sneak about following you)
very well said. I think as we get much older we get more vulnerable ie easy targets for crims. we need to be alert. I also carry a body camera with me.
My older brother shared a story with me that back in the 1990s he and my sister-in-law were vacationing in North Carolina and walking down a street (I want to say the city of Raleigh) one evening heading to a restaurant. My brother noticed an unsavory character began to follow them at a short distance. So, my brother and sister-in-law crossed the street, and this stranger did the same. To test it more, they hooked a right and left, but the guy stayed on their heels. Then my brother verified his gut feeling and tried one last thing. So, they started walking faster, and so did the guy. So, my brother told her to keep walking, and my brother spun around after a hard stop and told the guy he was onto his game. This freaked this guy out, and he quickly scampered away into the darkness. My brother didn't have any tools on him, but his keen awareness and confrontational attitude prevented an event from unfolding. Maybe he just got lucky, I don’t know because this dirtbag may have had a weapon on him.
I accidentally did this once but its because I was lost, it was dark out, I thought they knew the way out, and also didnt want to be left behind and alone 😅
I could be wrong, but I feel that acknowledging a person that you’re aware of them (w/o escalating) works 99% of the time. So many people think “If I just ignore them they’ll go away, “ but that can make you more vulnerable in their eyes. Just my two cents.
Well, even if that's what my instinct would tell me to do also, I read that it's a bad idea because once the stalker knows you've seen their face, they'll want to disable you even more, because you could report him. I'd rather go into a crowded place, find a police man, call a friend, get a cab etc. I don't think I would confront a stalker alone. I'm a female and quite small, it wouldn't end up well if we were all alone.
When i was young & naïve, i decided to head home late at night , alone! I caught the night bus & then started walking the last 5 minutes home , as i walked i could here a light dragging sound behind me , i stopped & the noise stopped, i was terrified, i sped up & so did the noise, i raced into my gate & hammered on the door, my brother let me in & as i turned around i realised my bag strap had broken & my bag had been dragging across the floor behind me , like a stalker, what a relief. As a woman i would never go out alone at night .
I've been followed twice. First was in the day on a busy street, so I was confident to confront the guy. He admitted he was following me and wouldn't leave till I got other men to chase him off. Even in such a low danger environment, it was still very frightening. 2nd time was at night on a quiet street but near homes. I stopped, faced him, took out my phone, and started dialing police. He ran off right away. I was very lucky both times that I wasn't isolated and had resources at hand.
My friend and I were walking in an affluent older neighborhood back in the early 1970s when a man started following us. We zigzagged our path, but he continued to follow us. It was all residential, no businesses within a half mile at least. In desperation, I picked a house and told my friend to follow me without hesitation and that we were going to walk up its steps, open its front door and walk right into that house like we lived there. And that’s just what we did. Luckily the door was unlocked. The older couple sitting in the living room were of course surprised, but not threatened by two teenage girls, especially after my explanation. They watched the stalker pass by their house, and also noticed he looked up at their house as he passed. We waited a few minutes before leaving, heading in a totally opposite direction to reach our bus stop. Whew!!! Yes, I took a chance the homeowners could have been unwelcoming or the door might have been locked, but what else was there to do?
We all kept our doors unlocked back then. Its too bad things are different. I lock my doors always. Even when i let my dogs into the dog run and daylight i lock my doors. Its sad we have to do that
I was pushing my infant daughter in stroller down the street. It was daylight and people were outside. I know this sounds crazy, but it was like I felt a demon monster was following behind me. The skin around my ears became sensitive and it was like I could hear a monster breathing. I stopped immediately and turned around and stared that man directly in the eyes. He snapped out of it and walked past me. I was shocked and scared. I waited a moment and surveyed my surroundings before I walked into my apartment and up 4 flight of steps to my apartment. Whew! Glad my instincts kicked in.
I had similar experience. Had uneasy feeling and turned around to see a dude following me closely with a empty fixed stare. Our eyes met ..he knew I knew.(thinking back it wasn’t his first time at all) He followed me from the metro down the street. He smirked when I looked back to face him the second time. I’ve slowed down and let him pass. Then dunked through the bushes via a shortcut to the parallel street. But when I’ve turned a corner towards my house, he was there .. spotted me across the street, crossed it and walked directly on me. There were other ppl , it wasn’t that late. It’s like he knew his game is up and he cant stalk me anymore .. but he thought that I’m running away and he was ready to enjoy my fear. But , in my 30s it wasn’t my first time with the predators. (Being short, blond and on a feminine side , I might look like an easy mark) Looking straight into his face I kept walking in a calm pace in a straight line. When we were about to collide his smirk got crooked, the face was like of a cat that just discovered that his mouse got rabies. He stepped aside just a little, still on my way and I just crashed in him and walked through with my elbow first. Turned my head and loudly cursed at him .. Glanced back but kept going straight at the same pace. His face was very confused and .. exposed, he didn’t like the noise the trouble .. and the lack of my fear. He quickly, but calmly walked away. He was on a hunt and it definitely wasn’t his first one. There is something, that cold chill on the back of your neck when one senses that a predator is fixed on you. But absolute majority of them are opportunistic, they don’t like too much trouble, exposure or victims that do not act like victims. They know they are perves to be hunted down themselves.
There should be a discreet code word we can use for being followed , when running into a supermarket or bar or anywhere where there's people. They have a special code for when online dates turn creepy,so they should have something in place for general creepy stalking .
One thing I learned in my cpr courses was that people are less likely to help first with larger groups of people present, known as the bystander effect. An effective way to call out for help is to call out an individual person. Use identifying factors “you with the blue shirt, you with the green hat, etc.” as it places an urgency on them to help
I believe that we should always listen to that little voice/instincts whatever you want to call it. When I was 18, working a fairly late shift at a grocery store, I had a man approach me and tell me he would be waiting for me when I got off. I didn't know this guy, so I told my manager I was creeped out by his statement. The manager told him to leave and the man refused, so my manager called the police. I called my dad who came to get me prepared with my brother. The police were arresting the guy when I left with my dad behind me in his vehicle and my brother with me. Now, as an adult with four children under 10, this is a scenario I've thought of, what would I do. Thanks for going over this.
My father taught me how to walk the street in Manhattan in the eighties. Walk fast, no eye contact, OR eye contact that is NOT friendly. Once at the port authority, he did have to get physical. Nothing like a father protecting his son. I learned a lot that day, I can still visualize it
My mom grew up in kc mo, she said the same thing..don’t make eye contact, but be aware and don’t go off alone where no one else is ( alley shortcuts, off beaten path
As a teenager in the 70s, I was sitting on the front steps of my building at 1 AM waiting for a friend, when I saw a car drive by. A few minutes later, I recognized the same car drive by again. At that point my gut put me on alert. Across the street I noticed I could see the reflection of his tail lights in some windows. I watched to see if he would drive away. Instead, I saw his brake lights come on, so I knew he was coming for me. I bolted into the front foyer and was halfway up the stairs behind the inner locked door when a man ran into the foyer with his pants open. I never forgot how I escaped a close encounter by watching his reflection in some windows. Keep your eyes open and use everything at your disposal to know what’s going on around you. And yes, I never sat outside alone late at night again!
Absolutely good advice, I’m glad your wife kept herself safe, smart lady! I walk for exercise through my neighborhood in my small town and have had this happen a number of times. I never speed up my pace, I start to walk basically like a man and I always make eye contact. I carry pepper gel and taser combo as well as a quick release lanyard heavy with metal keychains that I’ve practiced with. I’ve even had a creeper follow me at walking pace in his car, I pulled out my phone and pointed it towards him, and yes, I’m still here. Awareness is the best weapon. In addition, if you like to listen to music or podcasts while walking, only use one earbud and use a volume that allows you to be aware of noises around you. Thank you also for doing this talk about people and not just women, my husband had a big truck follow him for two blocks while walking once, it was really scary, he called me to describe the truck as it was happening and they drove away once they saw him on the phone. Stay safe friends!
I had almost the exact same experience. I got off late from work one night around 11pm. I lived just a couple blocks away. A teenager I worked with was having trouble getting a ride home so I stayed with her while a cab came. While we were waiting for a cab I noticed I had seen the same young man pass us a couple of times just walking up and down the same street while we were waiting. This already had me on alert but I didn't mention anything to my young coworker because I didn't want to scare her. To my horror, but not surprise, when my coworker left in the cab he started following me as I walked home. It was late and the streets were pretty dead but I got lucky and noticed a group of women across the street. I quickly walked across the street and started walking with them. When I turned around the young man was still watching me but he gave up following me. Stay alert everyone. I'm still extremely grateful I noticed him early on
When I enter a new space -- exiting store, exiting elevator, etc -- I like to pause, take in my surroundings. Helps my situational awareness and let's any creep know I might not be the easy target he's looking for.
That is a good video. Thank you. I was followed when I went on a hike in a lonely forest. First, I realized that someone was following me, was when I received an intuitive perception about it. I started to feel a painful feeling in my solar plexus which got worse by the minute. I had the urge to hide behind a bush, but then I tried to be rational and pushed these feelings away. The bad vibes but got worse and worse when I all of a sudden saw a tall man in a beige suite (that was so weird, to wear a beige suit in a mountain forest). He appeared on the path that I was on. There was a turn on the path, that is why I only saw him then. He was about 20 meters away from me and when he saw me we locked eyes, and my blood felt as if it was freezing. I had a strong sensation that this man wanted to harm and kill me. He started to look for a stick. My first instinct was to simply run away from him, but where? As it would only lead me deeper into the forest. In that instance, what I did, as I had no weapons of any kind with me, I started to pray for help and a voice told me to turn towards that man, walk towards him, and not look into his eyes but pass him calmly and then run for my life into the direction of the mountain settlement that was about 15 minutes away from. Due to my prayer, I felt a strong LIGHT wall around me all of a sudden. I held on to that awareness as I was completely scared. So I pushed my enormous fear away, slowly walked towards that man, who was standing there with that stick, and I did not look into his eyes, he did not move an inch when I passed him, but then I started to run, and it felt as if I run for my life. When I did run along the forest path, I avoided to look behind me as I was afraid that if I see him, the fear will slow me down. I reached the settlement and entered a restaurant. I was shaking. The first person seeing me, was startled and said " What on earth happened to you? _ and she helped me and calmed me down. Also informed authorities. This experience changed my life. Since this day, I always listen to my hunches and intuitions and not try to rationalize them even if direct physical proof is absent.
Sounds like he saw you elsewhere and followed, maybe why he was in suit. I have often wondered what was it that day that transpired between me and a stranger. Trust your gut, your intuition and feelings.
@@gerismith1218 I never thought about that he could had already followed me when leaving the little settlement. It was a November day, very foggy. No tourists on that high plateau in the Austrian Alps. When I entered the forest, already after about 250 meters I started to receive weird impressions. A bird let out a sound and the thought popped up in my head " This is a messenger of death". It was so weird but I still walked on, when I seemed to see BEINGS standing in my path telling me to turn around and not go into the forest this day. I actually thought I have a vivid phantasy and ignored that. I walked on and the path turned left when it got intense. I suddenly SAW little earth-colored gnomes in front of me, screaming hide behind that bush, hide behind that bush. I understand if many people might not believe me, and I have never experienced anything similar before and I myself did not believe what I was experiencing (but I experienced it later a few times again when I was hiking with a group of friends up a high mountain and we took the wrong path and it got completely dark and we there was someone guiding us and similar). I thought in my head, that cannot be that I see gnomes, I am not clairvoyant, so this was my self-talk. Then there was a HUGE pain in my solar plexus, I turned my eyes back to where I was coming from, but there was nothing there to see on the earthly level, but I SAW a MONSTER coming towards me on a finer level, with knives, bloody, a gorilla-like figure, primitive. Then that man appeared with that beige suite. Yes, we need to listen to our intuitive warnings as it can help us evade a lot of harm. All the best.
@@MaggyKN Thank you for your comment. Yes I know. The inner voice told me also other things in the one minute I made my decisions. It told me for example, that I am at a Crossroad on that day, and I will either die or live. I have to proof today that my Faith in God is strong.
I appreciate that "follow your gut feeling" is stressed. If you change your route and it turns out they were simply walking in the same direction, the only thing you've lost is a few steps. "The Gift of Fear" book makes a similar point - trust your gut.
I’ve definitely been followed, the most surprising incident being recently in my 30’s, in a tourist-y area of Canada. I thought they were for sure just walking in my direction, but after the 2nd or 3rd time stopping to “check” my phone, he stopped as well and I knew something was up. I did an about face and high tailed it to a nearby pub, sat outside, and looked and behold the guy followed. I was ready to go in the pub and ask for help/ if someone could help me call a taxi to my hotel, but luckily, *luckily* , 2 wonderful girls (whom I passed walking earlier) noticed what was going on and came to make sure I was ok. I explained the situation (we switched to speaking in Spanish at that point so the guy couldn’t understand), and they offered to walk with me. They said this was incredibly rare there, but since they saw everything they were adamant about making sure I was ok. I was so grateful for them! 🙏🏼
LISTEN TO YOUR GUT!!!! DO NOT WORRY ABOUT BEING PARANOID!!! IS BETTER TO BE PROACTIVE THAN FIND OUT YOU WERE WRONG IN YOUR ASSESSMENT OF THE SITUATION.
"Just because you're paranoid don't mean they're not after you. " You cannot turn a decent man into a rapist by being 'rude' .... and no decent man would mind you keeping yourself safer
This is good advice, women always have to be alert. Although I have never gotten any assistance from the police when I did ask for help. My ex military neighbor started stalking me in a subtle way, walking by or riding his bike by my condo, showing up at the library, used a drone to fly by my balcony and car and flying when I walk. I reported it and you're right, often no one will help you!. I confronted him, changed my phone number, quit talking to him, and made 2-3 reports but was not hurt physically. Stalkers are like bulldogs, very, very persistent and undeterred. (Dan Tim Erlich).
Had the vice president of Otis elevator say to keep your floor that you're going to button pushed in during the whole ride with your finger on the button.,... It will express your elevator and not allow it to be stopped for others wanting to get on... Great tip and he should know!
One of my daughters at age 14 was grabbed by an Eastern European man on a “tube train” in London and screamed like mad…NOBODY on the train helped her but when at a station a black guy getting on saw what was happening and STOPPED IT - eternal thanks to the guy….police found the guy responsible and TRUE TO UK POLICE TYPE THEY GAVE HIM A CAUTION. My daughter and family learned a VERY VALUABLE LESSON THAT DAY….police do NOT HELP SO HELP YOUSELF.
This is what I worry about in the UK - that nobody will help and we can't carry guns, knives or pepper spray as a defence. I was followed in Spain by a weirdo who didn't care that I knew what he was up to. He kept saying stupid things to me, I loudly told him to go away, I changed direction and he followed right next to me. It was in the daytime too. I then saw a group of women who helped me get away. One had a dog and she said she'd set the dog on him. This was in Spain, luckily I speak Spanish to ask for help. If it was in the UK, I'm not sure if anyone would have helped. :(
Bingo. Situational awareness is the one thing that would have changed 99% of peoples encounters. You’d be surprised how many people have NO situational awareness at all.
I was being followed by a guy on a bicycle, there was no doubt about it. I indeed went into a store, a bakery. There I told the people this guy was following me. He cycled by twice in both directions, clearly proving my point. Once he had just cycled past and could no longer see into the store, they quickly let me pass through their kitchen and out the back. I ran across the street into the neighborhood behind my house. There I checked whether or not I'd lost him. I thankfully discovered my action had been successful and I was able to safely walk home.
Always trust your gut! I used to ride my bike to work. One dark, cold December evening I was riding back home. A guy on a bike was behind me in the bike lane, and as I made a left onto a residential street, he had kept on going straight on the original street. But then, a few seconds later there he was, alongside me. He had turned around and come back to turn on my same street. He passed me on the left (sizing me up, perhaps?), and then fell back abreast with me again. Big red flag, so I immediately began sizing HIM up! He was shorter than me, quite thin, and oddly wearing a long, lightweight dark coat that couldn't possibly have kept him warm on a night where the temps were in the mid 30s. (I was wearing a ski parka, and I was cold). I also had a much bigger, heavier bike than he did. I figured if I had to, I could kick his ass. We were riding along a divided street that had a wooded creek running down the middle of it. Just before we came to where I was going to make another left across a bridge over the creek, he asked me in broken English if I would have sex with him. I laughed out loud, and told him in Spanish how ridiculous that was - and that I was older than his own mother. I think that really surprised him, and he didn't know how to react. He kept going straight along the creek, and I turned left and crossed the bridge. That time he didn't follow me. So, fast forward a couple weeks, and there was a local news story about a young man that had been arrested and identified as a serial rapist, with several of the attacks having happened along that very same creek, in the same block! The description exactly matched the guy I had encountered, including the bike. I guess I dodged a bullet that night. But then again, maybe HE dodged the bullet, because I was in no mood to be messed with.
@@magicunicorn6535 sounds like you still dodged a bullet, it can't be fun having to physically fight a person who wants to 🍇 you. You really had good instincts and acted in a way that shifted him out of his internal narrative of what he was going to do to you in probably a predator/prey story. How you responded actually kind of reminds me of my husband being approached by someone at gunpoint, asking him to give over his wallet. My husband said: no thank you. And then just continued walking - as he was internally freaking the hell out. He still walked normally, until he turned the next corner and only then started running. He figured the robber might come to their senses and come after him and that showing signs of distress might set the robber off to try and get his wallet again. Anyway, you go!
a guy sat next to me in the subway and kept staring at me while eerily smiling. eventually got off the subway and he followed me in the streets. by that point i was very scared, i lived in a very deserted area so i couldn't lead him where i lived. went into a drugstore, waited 20 minutes in there, pretending to shop. never in my life have i felt more like a prey and i hated that feeling with my entire being.
Situational awareness from the start. I’m a woman in San Francisco. You guys have heard how crazy gets around here. Well, I haven’t been victimized because I use situational awareness. If I go out, I’m back at home before midnight. If you ever have to yell for help, don’t say help scream FIRE. Nobody is going to come and help you most likely but they will certainly come around because they think their house or car might be on fire.
I always carry a whistle on my car keys. Most often when screaming out 'fire' or similar words, it can be seen as a joke. A whistle is piercing and makes everyone turn around.
@@krisushi1 Like a whistle, I carry this gadget that when you pull this tab out it gives out a sound with decibels as loud as an airplane. I also carry my keys with each key between my fingers as a weapon. More than sad that we can't walk without thinking about such things.
If I have to walk down a quiet street with no traffic I always walk in the middle of the road, never the edges. I think this saved me once as some creeps are afraid of open spaces. Hiding is great as well
Used to take our puppy for morning walks while alone, when the traffic has calmed down and it's quiet. There's a largely open field with just a few homes across from us. Would usually walk up and down that road a few times. The one morning while walking down the road, I saw a man at the bottom end of the road walking up. Something felt off, so I kept watching his reaction while stopping to give puppy a treat. He was still far away and while I gave the puppy a treat he moved into high grass beside the road where he stood in hiding. Because the road goes down in his direction I could see him, but he didn't realize he was visible. Being so far away, I just picked the puppy up and walked back home fast. We live in a complex, so he wouldn't know which house is ours, if he could see where we went. Since then I take our puppy for walks inside the complex whenever I'm alone and do the walks outside of the complex only whith someone else.
I treat it the same as driving a car. Distance, space, keeps you safe. And drive (walk) as though everyone else's car is a missle out to get you. That last part was my dad's advice.
My grandmother told me that my grandfather told her (this could be almost 100 years ago!) that, if he was taking the bus home, and a lady got off at his stop, he would always hang back for a couple of minutes and, maybe, light a cigarette or slightly change his route home and give the young lady time to be on her way and out of sight. I have lived all my life in New York City; sometimes, a lady might be in front of me and I knew we were heading for the same place, I would take my keys out and make noise - just enough to alert her that I was there. Also, if it is possible, if she is wearing heels, she might want to remove them and carry them and run without shoes - but, again, there would have to be quite a distance between the lady and the person she feels is following her for her to have time to do that.
@@ti3167 it might be helpful to reread this. First part was Grandpa telling Grandma what he does so a female understands he means her no harm. The second was Grandma saying what she herself would do if she felt threatened
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
When i was 17 and my friend was 16, we worked at a pizza hut. We lived four blocks from work. We worked the four to midnight shift and the owner called us a cab. We said no its only four blocks. He said my girls are never going to be in a unsafe situation. The whole year we worked there he sent us home in a cab. The pizza place was connected to a bar. Im 69 now and still think of that owner being so kind and caring
@@heatherumpherville6641 that is so sweet 😭♥️
Wow, that's so nice!
That’s nice ❤
God bless him/her! ❤
Amazing Human Being ❤
I (as a 23 y/o female) was once at night followed by a guy with a mask. I had nothing on me to defend myself and nowhere to run. I decided to take a chance and act like I had gone completely insane. Making loud roaring noises while rolling my eyes into my head and baring my teeth I turned to approach him like I was going to attack him with my bare hands. The guy stood there frozen for a moment, then ran for it. Man I was lucky 😂
That's what king David in the Bible did once - feigned insanity to scare off the enemy.
I did the same "insane"-act a couple of times when I was attacked in i.e. Barcelona and India in the early 90s. I went ALL IN (haha) and bc of that escaped rape by seconds. I am trained in throat growling (A Norwegian thing) so that helped a lot😀
RABIES 😂
@@leelunk8235 Yes this works. Has done for me three times in 70 odd years. My mother taught me but you have to mean it.
I have often thought I would do exactly that as well! So happy it worked out for you.
I was at an outdoor mall in Eugene one summer day with my two young daughters. We saw a girl about 13 years old, and a grown man walking about 10 ft behind her. She turned around and faced him and yelled very loudly, "Get away from me! Stop foilowing me!" She yelled that a few times and he turned and walked away fast. There were many other people in the area, all ready to help her. I told my girls, "And that is how that is done."
Oregon? I live outside Eugene. ❤ I've always told my girls make as much noise as you can if someone is following you or grabs you. Most of the time they are looking for someone who will go quietly
I moved recently from Eugene to southern Oregon in a rural place. Good idea with your girls! In martial arts I learned many girls won't scream because we're taught to be quiet, not make a fuss. So role playing helps, doing it with them actually practicing the yelling until it becomes a reaction.
Yes!!!! 🙌🏼
But, there's not always someone else around...🤔
Maybe that man with the 13 year old girl was a sex trafficor You could have called the police
When I was in my 20s, I was in a parking lot in San Francisco, and a guy followed me, drove where I drove, so I decided to drive to a fire station. The fire fighters on duty ask why I drove in... as soon as I told them... they saw a guy just drove off. They told me to wait it out a while, when the coast is clear...I drove home. Never drive straight to your home when you feel you are being followed.
Or drive to the Police station!
My father told me to drive to the police station or firehouse, whichever is closer and blow my horn if this happens. He said the firefighters are good guys and will come out. I only have had to take the advice once when in my 30s, coming home from a club, 4am. I drove blocks to get to the police station but when I was in front of it and it was obvious I was going to turn in, my brake lights I suppose, he did a U turn behind me and sped away.
Thank God for men like you
too bad the fire station didn't have cameras to catch the guy's license plate. Dude will definitely keep stalking until he victimizes.
@@yellowleaf28 that was before the advent of smart phones and cameras 😔.
It helps a lot to know the lay out of your community, where the nearest fire station and police precinct in your area.
When you are nervous and driving, GPS will not be much of help. So knowing in advance your community's layout helps a lot.
My friend and I were being followed by two young teen men. We were in our mid 20s. I held my purse in my hand in case they just wanted to rob us. They did not make a move but kept following. It was late at night. I looked up and saw a light on in a house and went and rang the bell. A man came down and I told him we were being followed. He came out and the two young men were sitting on the next porch. He yelled at them, clearly they didn't live in the neighborhood, and he yelled at them then asked where my car was parked. He waited until we were gone. Also,his wife asked if she should send the dog down. Very grateful for these people.
Thank goodness you noticed the light! I love the wife’s suggestion “ should I send the dog down” my Pitty is a nice dog but not if he feels something is off about someone.
I live in UK once a man was following me and I walked up to a house where the lights were on and rang the doorbell. A woman answered and I told her I thought I was being followed, she called her husband and he walked me the rest of the way home, about another half mile.
@@ReltubTheWizthere are still sacred males who protect us, so much gratitude for these sacred men. A big thank you from my heart 💕🌻
Glad to hear someone helped you.
@@ReltubTheWizgood thing he was nice. Know someone raped by the security guard she asked to walk her to her car. Sick.
My best tip EVER : If you are walking around houses or buildings and someone suspicious walking towards you …ALWAYS wave up and call out past them “HI JOE IM HERE” up to ANY Window dark or lit , it’ll look like someone (a man) is waiting and watching you . The suspicious person will not be able to tell where and who you’re waving to. And they won’t take the chance on you.
Use it! Brilliant!
good points
@deniselasalle9545 perfect. The main objective is to make yourself difficult or confusing any way you can so they decide you aren't worth the risk. They will wait for an easier victim. That's why you can and should do or say anything you want that you think will throw him off whatever plan he has. There are no rules or morals when it comes to self-defense.
Thank you! 😊
Smart thinking
Great idea. Use a definite man's name for best effect. Joe could be Jo (a woman's name). Use Dave, Mike, Jeff, Steve, Paul, something that leaves them in no doubt they are male.
If I find myself walking behind a lone female or parent/guardian with a child, I immediately cross to the other side and then walk slightly faster to get ahead of them so it is not apparent that there is any threat. In other cases I have changed my route altogether. I began doing this in my twenties (many years ago!) but over the years I have spoken of this habit and you might be surprised by the number of men who have admitted to same. We are animals and our senses are on heightened alert when alone. Once, walking home loaded down with groceries, a young woman was walking toward me. She looked straight in my eyes and said “Mr. Jackson! I didn’t know you were in this neighbourhood!” My name is not Jackson and it was a signal that she needed an “out” from the two men following her and my situation must have let her know that I was not a threat. I stammered a believable response, the two men disappeared and I was able to walk with her to her bus stop. It was a gamble for her but I am glad to have been there at that moment. I know this is a daily concern for millions out there and I wish everyone peace and thanks for this video.
Thank you. It’s great that there are decent men like you around in this world. Stalking sadly is getting worse for women alone
We can all approach and say things like that, thanx
Thank you for offering that lesson. And as a woman myself, thank you for helping her!!
I really appreciate that there are men who think this way. There is a Ryssian youtuber who convincingly dresses as a woman and shows how women are treated when just walking around a crowded city or beach resort town. He was pleasantly surprised to find out that very very few men harassed him. The ones who approached mostly took no for an answer. This is a starck contrast to the world I remember as a kid. Modern men on the whole think and act far differently now. But it is the remaining dinosaurs that make life dangerous for women. These men tend to have nothing to lose.
Thank you.
This brought back a frightening memory - I was in my early 20’s - it was nighttime- a man had followed me and got off the bus behind me (I had noticed his distinctive shoes when I got on the bus). He tried to engage with me but he wouldn’t take no for an answer. Finally he said “I’m not going to hurt you… but I might”. That did it… I marched into the middle of the street and waved down a car - explained to the two men inside what was going on and asked for a ride to my house a couple of blocks away. They said “Sure honey, get in” without thinking I jumped into the back seat. Out of the frying pan and into the fire… ? They unexpectedly were undercover police and chased and arrested the guy who ended up having a record for assault. Trusted my gut that night and luckily I was safe. Still haunts me.
1970’s Oakland CA
Wow! Cool!! 😮 That's the best outcome!!
@@La.SummerGOD was looking out for you…wow glad you escaped. I know Oakland :/
I’ve been in that situation- where I asked 2 men that looked like they were gang members for help and I realized I might be putting myself in a worse situation but I had to get away from the creep that was following me 🤷♀️
Maybe you should look into the story of Sarah Everard
I’ve said this on multiple posts but there is this amazing book by Gavin DeBecker, The Gift of Fear. It’s about trusting instincts by a man who has serious credentials. One of the things he said that stuck with me is that no man should approach a woman at night to help her and you are safer choosing the person that helps you than allowing the person who chooses you to “ help” you.
I always think, they are less likely to view you as prey and less likely to have plans for you.
When I was a teenager, I was walking down a quiet street in the afternoon when a guy in his 40s approached me. He started out by saying how pretty I was and then began telling me obscene things he did with past girlfriends who were pretty like me. Then he brushed my hair off my shoulder and I'll never forget the feeling of his fingers brushing against my neck and how scared I felt. That part of the street was wooded on either side but there were houses just up ahead. I said I lived up ahead (I lied) and I walked in the middle of the street in case he tried to drag me into the woods. He kept walking with me and as soon as I reached the first house, I said I lived there and walked up the driveway to the door and knocked. A lady answered, and I was crying as I explained what happened. She let me in and I called my dad to come get me. I'm 45 and will never forget that moment.
Wow so close to danger, I'm glad you were OK!
The sad fact is now, it is harder to get someone to open the door and help because they could be working together!
Luckily the lady let you in.
Imagine if she was not there
What a sicko! 😭
What happened to the predator. Did the police get him?
Trust that feeling ladies, it is a God given gift. Stay safe out there.
You mean trust your gut.
I agree with you! God gave men muscles, but he gave us intuition!
Men too, sadly.
Best book on self defense for women:the gift of fear. Should be required reading for all young women
I'm OK👍 I'm not attractive unfortunately😂thank god😂
Always trust your gut. I was walking home around 9:30pm from work when I was 17. I was pretty sure I was being followed. I kept an eye on him and went a different route that kept me along a well lit/traveled road. He eventually came up behind me and grabbed me. I started screaming, “WTF are you doing!?!” and shoved him into the street as hard as I possible could. He was stunned. It was clear that he expected to me whimper and say please don’t hurt me. He paused for a minute and then started to lunge at me again so I started screaming and ran to the first house I could and started beating on the door. He took off. Be aware, be loud, be rude, fight back, ask for help bust most of all… trust your gut.
Omfg so glad that you were safe... it's crazy how desperate some people are these days and it's not cool at all. Wishing safety and prayers to any one being stalked outside in the world, because it's a dangerous world out there with people who have ill intentions to harm others. Stay safe from now on
You know you have a better story and advice than the creator of this video 😂
@@mwahha6965 The creator of this video has some very good advice. I've used a couple of these tactics over the years -- blending into a crowd, and staying in a store for a long time until the person following me finally gave up and left.
@@denlaf First sentence most valuable! Trust your gut. Now I ll finish reading your reply. . . .
@@denlaf omgosh! I just remembered: ( and I ve already replied but this just now has come to me..) My Mom Marian (RIP) walking , arm-in-arm singing on 11th Street, South Philadelphia, going to meet Dad a the car after a meal at Cous’ ( Cousins’ ?) Little Italy oblivious to everything. ( year: early 1980’s /79?) Suddenly a yank on the purse. Mom loses her bearings starts to go down . I leaned into that guy - WT…! Freaked out . For one nanosecond as he started to explain that he tripped. I ALMOST gave him the benefit of doubt. “ oh, ok, you tripped…NO. NO NO u didn t ..!” Freaked out all over again. Phew! ( actually there were 2 guys/villians . I stated I forgot about this assault until just now. )No Broadway show tune singing, but I kept my wits about me- TG! ) “ they could have had a gun,” Mom says. Well, they didn t was my reply. We continued to sing but it was edgy! Stay safe all. Praying for the World. ( and I m not a prayiN’ man or mantis! - The can t be funny all the time, but I m going to try! ) Seriously.
Seriously praying and funny! When appropriate. Ha!
True story. I was leaving Publix and this guy was just walking too fast in my direction as I headed to my car. I whipped around and looked in dead in the face. It through him off. He was maybe one foot away from me. He bolted in the other direction. Ladies don’t be afraid to OFFEND someone!!! It may save your life!!!
Looking at someone shouldn't offend them. If it does, they need to toughen up.
A woman was giving a lecture about protecting yourself. She suggested trying to offend the person, this included yelling at them and if possible, even passing gas!
Bruh I had a similar instance...by sheer coincidence also at a Publix, after i had just bought a couple of groceries and I wasn't sure if I was being followed by a dude (my husband was waiting for me in the car) but he sure looked shady af. Turns out they were.
I was in the mood to murder that day, the moment i got to my car, I told my husband loud and clear "found another one!", grabbed my curtain rod and closed the door behind me, turned around with a real big grin and stared into that guys soul. I legit thought to myself "We gon settle this one way or another. Lets see how many sentences I can rack up in one minute" (this is not the first time some man has tried to take advantage of me...)
Never seen someone run away so fast that dude must've thought I was some serial killer😂😂
I in no way intended to fight this dude, I just wanted to scare the ever living crap out of him by bluffing because that usually seems to work for some reason. Also I was in the military and I WAS wearing a uniform at the time so that might've helped my case
I've done that!
@@angelacarbon4010I had some really great self-defence classes at high school. One of the tips was, if you happened to vomit from fear, or needed to poop, do it and smear it over you. Because hopefully the smell would put them off, maybe draw attention.
Don't walk past parked vans at night
Also during the day
In New Jersey, that would be almost impossible
Almost every Dateline starts with a white panel van....
It happened to me one night. Coming back from a dinner at a friend, 30 min walk from my house, on top of the Avenue. At one point, there is no light and the area is pretty isolated, only a retirement house hidden in a large wooden area. I was walking slowly up the hill and from the wood a van started to follow me. I looked and the windows were dark. I continued up, and it was driving very slowly, following me. I had all alarms and red flags ringing, and a bad gut feeling, and was so scared. I assessed the situation: absolutely no one in the street by night, a very desolated point. But feet away a bus stop with light. I hurried there and started to study the schedule. Meanwhile, the van had stopped two feet away and was waiting. My heart was banging in my chest. Miraculously, a young guy appeared to the bus stop and waited with me. The bus arrived minutes later and we both went up and left. I was scared that the van would follow us and catch up when I was going to get out, but it did not. It was a very scary experience….
@@odilegabayengel4192 Wow! I'm sorry to hear that. I'm glad that guy was there to help you! God was with you! :)
Another tip: Have your keys ready to get into your car. Get into your car quickly and lock the door immediately. AFTER your doors are locked, THEN settle in: put on your seatbelt, get your sunglasses on, credit card out to pay the lot, etc. I once attended a seminar by a woman who worked in the same building I did and who parked in the same parking ramp that I did. She shared that she had gotten into her car but did NOT lock the door, and started getting herself organized. A guy opened her door and dragged her out. She fought him tooth & nail, and thankfully prevented being raped. She DID have to go to the hospital. Since her seminar, EVERY time I get in my car, I lock it immediately - day or night.
I knew a woman who told us she never locks her car door around men because she doesn't want to hurt their feelings. As though any man will die from hurt feelings.
@ Women need to just get over ‘hurting’ men. They hurt us every day and don’t think anything of it, or worse, laugh about it.
same! i set up my keyless entry system to only open the driver's door so that i only have to worry about locking one door
@@aprilzcornerSubaru’s fob do that…you have to press longer to open all 4, even a different button for the hatch back. Also re-lock before you go to push your shopping cart to the cart pen. You Cannot be too careful.
Always lock it at gas stations, too, because they could open the opposite door and grab your purse
I was at a cafe once with a friend. A man was sitting at the back of the cafe and was staring at me. I moved my chair so he wouldn't be in my line of view. He moved his chair and kept staring at me. I was pissed off. So I stood up and very loudly said to him across the cafe, "Excuse me, you in the corner, I don't like you staring at me, I'd like you to stop". He looked very embarrassed to have been called out in public. My friend and I left soon after and I never saw him again.
I have a feeling that would be my exact reaction too!
he got embarrassed! Meathead
I like that very much
I HATE guys that do that! It always seems to be middle aged and old men that do that too. I had an old creep follow me and stare at the Boise WinCo store in 2011 once. I glared at him and flipped him off. Stopped instantly
Love this
My VOICE saved my life! When I was 50, I parked and started walking a few blocks to a music venue one night. I looked around first and saw no one. I walked fast, but instinctively turned around (I heard nothing) and a man was tailing about 7 ft behind me (with a 2nd man standing by their car 30 ft away). He grabbed me in a bear hold, pinning my arms. I had no weapons and couldn't use my hands anyhow, so I started *screaming* ! Twice he said, "Don't scream," but I kept on as loudly as possible. He finally let go and ran towards the other man (their car). I'm lucky to be alive!
That’s my worst nightmare! I’m so glad you’re okay 💖
You definitely had the right idea to keep screaming. Most of the time they just say, thinking you are too scared to continue. But if you carry yourself with confidence and keep screaming, they'll realize it's too risky to harm you.
It is utterly disgusting how two men can plot and carry out crimes against a girl or a woman, knowing full well they're bigger and stronger! I'm glad you got out of that situation and may you have continued safety wherever you may go. 🩷
@Wishpool It sounds like you’re old now, please give Jesus an honest look before it’s too late. If he’s for real, you have eternity to gain and only some time to lose.
Another tip for the bear hug type situation is to drop your weight. You're a lot harder to pull to another location if they have to fight gravity as well.
A body guard who had been a Police Officer told me when someone acts crazy then you act even crazier back. Nobody wants to follow a crazy loud person… trust me.
Speaking from decades of experience using this tactic, I can verify.
It's effective and efficient.
@@elisadelaurenti2516 I've seen it work.
@@elisadelaurenti2516 I was once told if someone is attacking you, "shout fire, fire!" and people will come running but if you shout "help" everyone will ignore you...
@kitchenworker446 btw..... Who is "Kitty Genovese"?
It's referred to as "The bystander effect".
@@elisadelaurenti2516 She was a woman stabbed to death while many looked on and did nothing to help her.
What I love about RUclips is the comment section. So many people sharing their experiences allows the story of this video to extend beyond the author could tell. It’s given me so many more ideas and examples of what to do if in this scenario. Thanks to all who have shared and know that your voices are heard ❤
yes, alot to be learned / used from the COMMENTS !! 👍
same...💛 comment sections are the best - it shows each one of us that we all are humanity , well all are into this together
if i'm not sure whether i want to watch a youtube video or not, i read some comments first. they are truly a measure i go by before deciding.
My sentiments, EXACTLY!
Powerful info! 🙂
Same
My husband and I were walking a trail and there was a group of older teenagers ahead. My gut just felt like something wasn’t right. So I told him, start slowing your pace. They slowed their pace. Ok, this isn’t right. So I stopped to look down into a ravine and point down at the River as a pretend distraction. They too stopped and were waiting for who knows what. I knew if we kept on ahead, where the trail bends further into the woods, past houses, we were doomed. When they started to walk away, I said NOW, and we ran the opposite direction and got out of there really fast. Trust your gut people!
Excellent maneuver to safety.
My parents got swarmed by teens in Moscow on a bridge. They had a group behind them and a group in front of them and eight lanes of traffic on the side. They did get mugged but not hurt but I was sad knowing there was nothing they could do beyond stepping into traffic!
@@alrightyru that's awful, so sorry that happened to your parents.🤦🏾 were they tourists or they live there?
That had to be scary for you. Good to follow your instincts. There are no regrets later.
@@alrightyruI have actually walked into traffic and walked along the centre line when being followed by a group. It's scary, but it draws the attention of drivers, which makes it extremely difficult for anyone to attack. Even the act of pausing at the roadside while obviously looking for a way across reduces the likelihood of assault, as you clearly have a purpose, which drivers subconsciously notice. The person following you also pauses, because they don't want to follow you into traffic. It works. The group had made their intentions very clear with what they were calling out to me.
Not quite a "followed home" story, but I had a man strike up a more than friendly conversation on a train ride home one afternoon. He wouldn't take the hint, and other passengers were giving me sympathetic looks. I was worried he would follow me off the train at my station. I had a big toolbox with me, and once I got to my station, I quickly got up, and he pointed out the box. "That's a nice toolbox. What's in it?" I turned back and casually said over my shoulder. "Just my knives." The look on everyone's faces was priceless. He was shocked; other passengers just looked at me like, "Oh, she had this!". Should not have been a surprise, I was wearing my chef pants after all.
Heart wrenching news it is to hear of a young woman who went jogging alone on a jogging path through the woods. It’s lovely, I’m sure. Tragically, deadly too. Thank you for the reminder of how to handle this. Especially the eye contact thing. I would have thought total ignoring was best, but I see the sense of staring at him, however briefly, to let him know that you know he has nothing good on his mind, and you’re not having it. True story: A friend worked overtime in a large, multistory city building. She took the elevator to the parking garage. As the doors opened, a gut level feeling rushed over her. She quickly pushed the button for the first floor. To the night security guard there she said “I know you’re going to think I’m just being silly, but would you walk me to my car? I had a bad feeling when I tried to go.” He did so, as she apologized for bothering him several times. The next day he told her “After you left, I thought I should check it out. On one of the levels I heard a noise and then saw him in the distance. I shouted to him and he ran. I didn’t catch him, but from now on I’ll check the garage floors and not just assume everyone’s gone home. And you call and let me know when you’re working late.” How many women are dead because they “didn’t want to bother someone.” Do more videos like this, please.
Great comment. “How many women are dead because they didn’t want to bother someone?”
@@pcfrivera6023or, how many women are dead because of men
@@Lomie32well the security guard was a man!
Virtually every man will be willing to provide a woman with some measure of protection if she's feeling threatened. As long as we're not victimizers ourselves, and most of us are not. Listen to your gut. We won't think you're being silly, and we won't consider your request to be an inconvenience. You are not bothering us.
Thank you, better safe than sorry
As a young Aussie girl in the 70’s aged about 10 I was doing my local paper round job when a man driving a car tried to block me in a driveway. I pushed through the bushes blocking the way before he had time to get out of the car and ran to the next house screaming to let me in. Thank goodness someone was home. They called my parents, put my bike in their boot and drove me home. First time I ever had a ride in a Mercedes. 😂
Oh, and I never did the paper-round again. 👍🏻
Good!
That sounds terrifying. I'm so glad you got help.
THANK GOD YOU ARE OK 💜🙏💜
🙏
I was followed by a guy through the centre of London the other month - very busy and at first I thought I was being paranoid but I was not. I crossed the road, I went into a shop and he came in the shop and walked right passed me staring at me. I left the shop - I was freaked out. Now it’s London, it was busy but I was still worried. Next thing, he’s walking at the side of me matching my pace and kept looking g over at me. So at this point I was getting angry. I pulled my phone out and slowed right down it kind of forced him to continue because he would have made it obvious he was following. Then when he was ahead, he looked back a couple of times and I had decided to completely stop outside a shop I know. He then went into another shop just ahead of me - at this point I shot passed and was ready to FaceTime my boyfriend who lived nearby if he came out. But luckily I didn’t see him again.
When working late at night several of us women would all walk to one of the girls car and all of us would get in. The woman driving would then drop off the other girls one by one at their cars thereby seeing everyone was safely in their own car.
Smart!
My friends and I do this all the time, even when just out for dinner.
What a great idea!
Excellent
Buddy system all the time! I literally don't care if your car is a block away or if you think the area is safe. If you're walking by yourself in the dark, I'm coming with you.
As a young twenty something barber who also did ladies hair I worked at a mall. I had to walk out into a somewhat dark parking lot when I worked late in winter and it got dark early. I was always cautious but my secret weapon was my scalding hot curling iron I heated up to maximum heat every nite before I left. It accompanied me to my car and I never did have to use it. Not sure if everyone knows what that burn feels like but it’s definitely life altering !😂
😂😂
YOOOOO wait!!! That is CRAZY SMART!!! 😮😮😮😮
@@TheAngryMarshmallowthank you ! I guarantee it would work !
I love that!!!!!
🤣🤣🤣🤣
I was attacked by a guy outside my little hotel in the heart of Paris when I was 21. I was ringing the doorbell for the employee to open as it was 2 am…a guy came from behind and grabbed me by my neck and tried to pull my underwear down…I was in heels and minidress.. I screamed , clawed and stood on his foot and just went wild, punching him…I’m a petite girl, but holy shit I was wild with fear…he ran away.. I’ll never forget that experience. After that, I trained in Muay Thai and carried a stun gun for 6 years..whilst living in Paris and London. I have 2 teenage daughters. Both are trained in Krav Maga, and carry pepper spray. All women should have some basic self defence training… it has truly saved me and given me a lot of confidence. I’m very hyper aware of my surroundings at all times..which is from the trauma..
And men sneer at women who say they’d choose the bear to meet in the woods!
It's illegal to carry weapons in the UK. So what did you use then?
That is the thing, you know? any man, can, at any time be the one, who is attacking you, dont want to come off as being paranoid, just cautious. always be aware of your surroundings, and the men in there.....
Dont be afraid, Bé AWARE! and have some sort of selfdefence with you, on you, even if it is your voice!
Be proud of yourself that you stood up to him fight him, any way you could!
@@sunflowersandsand Sure, it is illegal, to carry weapons, In europe too, i just made myself a monkey`s fist it is a very nice "toy", You should look it up, Y T is your teacher!
i carry a rather impressive knife, i am petite too,
Oh, a small canister hairspray and a lighter will do magic, when used on the eyes, selfdefence style
Unfortuntely we're not allowed pepper spray in the UK.
I (female) always used to walk everywhere, even a bit too late in the evenings as a young (typically naive) woman. I found myself w/o a ride home one night from a party, so I walked through the nice n'hoods alone. A man stepped out from the hedges exposing himself. "Hah!", I said & kept on striding (I always did know the importance of confident posture, at least).
He didn't follow me, TG, & I found a big sturdy stick to carry. But then I came upon a young couple who (bored & mean) started mocking me, "Ooh, look at her carrying a weapon... " etc.
I was just a teen but thought "to hell with you". I kept the stick, ignored their taunts & got home safely.
Women tend to weaken &/or care too much what others may think.
If you aren't confident, at least Fake It Till You Make It!
Abraham Lincoln is quoted as having said: Walk softly, and carry a big stick.
Don't lead with your face is the softly part. If a "mountain of a man" thought a stick was good... it's good enough for me. Lincoln is respected as a great leader for many reasons.
I am not American, and I think he was an excellent role model.
People in times past often carried a stick/ cane and knew how to use it. Any chemical in a spray bottle/ can you can weild. Hat pins, long ones with a decorative end are excellent. Hard to disarm you and whether you hit the hand or the groin that person WILL feel it. Give yourself time to get clear.
I totally agree with you that the last thing one should do is to show fear or run. The men who follow (usually) women, are weak and get a thrill out of the hunt if the women turns into 'prey' behaviour. I was followed by such a person in Britain on my way home late at night. I crossed the road and then back to be sure that the person was following. Then I turned around and faced him. I asked 'Are you following me?' He then looked down and shuffled his feet before saying 'Yes!' defiantly. I then saw red and launched into a speech starting with 'WHAT RIGHT do you have to follow me at night etc etc etc. Finally, he said 'Look lady, you go this way and I'll go that'. The second time was in Italy where I was followed by a gang of young men - late teens. I used the same technique with the head of the gang. In this situation he did not want to lose face in front of his 'friends' and started to take a step towards me. I instinctively knew that if he moved, so would the others follow. I immediately took a leap forward towards him, crouched and took up a martial arts stance with my hands ready to attack and made a loud warcry. I did not have any idea of a follow up and was relying on the fact that they didn't know that! I had merely copied what I had seen in films! Luckily, they didn't want to risk it and all turned around and went looking for easier prey. This is not rocket science if you use your brain - if you run you'll defenitely lose and be attacked, in my opinion.
When I was a college student I had to walk home from my job on campus very late at night. I used to carry a very large pair of pointed scissors at the ready.
And maybe lets not embrace the naive lable, Why do we have to be naive for just wanting to have the freedom to exist outside without being terrified of men?
@@CJDane-rf1je Exactly! it is just right down crazy, that we women have to think of objects to defend ourselfs, before we even enter the streets!? So much women hatred! be aware!
I had a therapist who worked at a prison for many years (before working at the outpatient hospital where I met her), who really emphasized how important eye contact is for safety. I was needing help making contact because of my anxiety, but she told me it's important to be able to make eye contact because it shows confidence, like you aren't going to go down easy if someone tries to mess with you. Never forgot that.
one time a loud bus harasser just started to complain about a lady getting on who only had coins to feed the machine and was taking up "precious driving time' b/c the bus couldn't take off with her standing there feeding coins; this lady wasn't apologetic, didn't shrink - she just gave the person on the bus eye contact, and he shut the f*ck up. The rest of the passengers (like me) silently cheered. And I was IMPRESSED, never seen someone shut a loudmouth on the bus up before with a single calm look (she held it). She didn't continue what she was doing, ignoring him, and hoping it would go away. She straight up eye-contacted him. And boy if i could read her look and what she sent out, because it wasn't mean or angry or loud, her eye contact was just calm and something else, and it shut him down quick.
❤
@@yellowleaf28 Whoa. That lady had some serious cool in that situation. That is inspiring
I used to work in an incredibly homeless saturated city where I regularly had interactions with them. I found that the more eye contact I made with those I wanted zero interaction with the more confrontational and willing to follow me they were. So I quit making eye contact and I was more pleased with how I was treated.
Another time I was followed to my car and assaulted; I had previously made eye contact with him and said I am not interested in speaking/interacting, trying to show confidence in a public setting.
Now I am extremely situationally and self aware wherever I go and always carry a firearm/train with it often. Pepper spray is handy as well.
Eye contact is not a cure all and those that wish to harm you could care less about your confidence. I won't say all of them, but in my experience that seems to be the case. Please be careful with what "confidence boosters" you are handing out to people for their safety. I understand that not everyone can just carry around pepper spray and a firearm in the workplace but please think twice before you make eye contact with someone. Value your safety and life by taking more precautions.
Hahahaha ...no.. no no.. no lol if u look someone bad, angry or deranged in the eyes they're going to get aggressive n be like ' what? What u looking at' ... worst suggestion I've ever heard lol
When I was in my 20s I had some night classes and walked to my car fairly late at night. One night when I was walking back to my car, a guy behind me was calling to me and waving to me as though he knew me. I did not know him. I ignored him and continued walking to my car. I got into my car, locked the door, and started my engine. He walked up to my car and motioned for me to roll down my window. I ignored him, put the car in drive and drove off. He got really mad and threw a rock at my car. I learned long ago not to be afraid of offending someone.
You dared to ignore him and his delicate little ego got the better of him and he took it out on your car
Perfectly done 👏
I was followed once and didn’t know it. I wasn’t alone either, but was shopping with my parents and my brother. I noticed my brother kinda falling behind and walking behind me a ways. Then I eventually asked my brother why he was doing that and he told me there was a guy watching me and started following me. Thanks to my brother getting in between him and me, that was enough to keep him away. I’m so thankful for my brother.
Jeez luckily he didn't snatch your brother! I'm grateful that your brother was there to watch out for you and take action ❤️
@@valeriew4833 I am too! Boy, I didn’t even think of that, that he could have been snatched. We were already adults, so he’d be a bit too big to snatch.
oh, i read that you were all together walking; you must've been separated from your family or walking loosely at one point. b/c i didn't understand the loser who would stalk a girl when her family's around
I really cant relate to this bc i dont have such a good family tree but im glad your brother loves you to the point he prioritizes you
Wow! God bless good brothers.
NEVER let anyone walk too close to you. KEEP DISTANCE IS THE KEY!!!
Often muggers will come up and ask an innocuous question before mugging you.
If you're in a densely populated area this could be impossible, for me I live in suburbia so I can key in on somebody acting suspicious or whatever. (Phoenix AZ).
Situational awareness is the first thing…so many people have no clue what is going on around them.
@@americafirst9144 A ploy so common that both criminologists and convicts have coined a term for it. The first calls it an "interview" and the second, a "feel-out". It allows them into control range under the guise of normalcy, occupies your thoughts and hands at the moment of attack, and tests your submission and surrender to further escalated demands...
@@americafirst9144like asking for the time when we all mostly have mobile phones.
When ever walking, especially when alone, turn around every minute or so, and make sure no one is following you. I learned this from a native New Yorker - she came up to me and told me that a man has been following me for blocks. She immediately knew I wasn't a native New Yorker and I am forever grateful for her tip which may have saved my life.
Rap 🍭
A note on 5:03 ; I was taught when younger to only carry weapons I can use well and without panicking or hurting myself. A blade, pepper spray, firearm, etc can be turned on you by an attacker if you’re flimsy with it. If you’re carrying something, make sure you’re trained to use it if you have to.
also be aware of local legislation. Using a knife to fend off an unarmed attacker may lead YOU to be charged. Are you allowed to carry pepper spray or knives? In what situation are you allowed to use force?
@@electron-Volt Yeah, 100%. Where I live, carrying concealed weapons is illegal.
Good point!
You should definitely know how to use any weapon you are relying upon for your own protection, but many women hear this and think "well, if I'm not a police officer/former army/competitive marksman then I'm better off with nothing". This really isn't the case at all. Obviously being competent with your weapon will make you more effective with it, but you don't need some secret esoteric "military grade" training at a specialized school. An afternoon at the gun range with your gun-owning boyfriend/brother/father/uncle/redneck sorority sister is enough to be pretty damn well assured that your gun won't be worse than nothing. Once the bad guy is close enough to use your weapon against you, you're fucked anyways.
When I was in college I went for a run one morning; it was a little after dawn and already light. As I was running a car drove past me very slowly, and I’ll never forget the expression in the eyes of the two men in the car as they looked at me. When the car was about 20 feet ahead of me, I ducked behind some bushes in someone’s yard along the sidewalk. The car turned around and started back past me. They had the window down and I heard one of them say, “Where did she go?” I stayed hidden until the car turned and then I sprinted away as fast as I could. I could hear that car trawling up and down other streets until I was far enough away. I ran straight back to my dorm; I worked out in the gym after that.
Scary! Glad you got away. So many women who are kidnapped/murdered are attacked while they're running. It's definitely not safe anymore.
I’m so happy you got away. Your story reminds me of Laken Riley, who wasn’t as lucky.
Damn…… so much evil in this world
So glad you got away safely. I will never understand how a grapist/potential grapist can convince a buddy to go along with that. What a disgrace!
I also want to say there is safety in numbers and ask for an escort. I was walking around in a store and a man started to follow me so I asked a big man could he escort me to my car. He was happy to do it and seemed proud of a chance to be a hero.
I’m from NYC. My husband taught me to turn around without breaking stride, look the person up and down and turn back around and continue walking. I had to do this twice. It was terrifying, but it works. People with bad intentions do not want to be identified. Great video, cheers everyone!
I have instinctively done that..looked them straight in the eye and said "Is there something I can help you with?" in a commanding tone. Knocks them off guard and puts you in charge. But even before that, keeping distance is KEY.
I think it's eye contact because you can't identify them if you're unalive. I was in a situation where my life was in danger, and I was about to look down, and a voice said, "Look him straight in the eyes. It worked his demeanor change, and he left. They are looking for you to be weak and scared. I think that's what men get off on. I was scared but I did my best not to show it.
@@Abena_Goddess87 You are correct. They want you to feel fear and it’s no fun for these type of guys if you are not scared of them. They are cowards as well as perverts.
If he is out to kill you, it won’t work if you can ID him or not…..
They just off you if you can identify them
I've been followed twice. Both in my 20's before mobile phones, I managed to go into a shop & shouted really loud, pointed at him " that man is following me, call the police!" He ran! In the UK we don't have weapons. After that I learned my lesson. I always have a small can of hairspray in my coat pocket & carry a long umbrella 🌂. 2nd time it went on too long, did the eye contact & crossing the road, he followed me from town centre shopping & I was only 500m from my car. I had no choice but to turn around & confront him, stood strong, authoritative voice! Spray in hand pointing at his eyes, umbrella pointed at his neck & giving me distance. Told him "I'm ex army do you really want to continue this, you'll end up in A&E (ER), turn around & walk away!" His reply "f*ck, sh*t, alright I'm going!" I was shaking afterwards, I'm not ex army, total B/S.😅 However, I noted his features & what he was wearing & reported him to the police when I got home!
if it's life or death / kidnapping / robbing / car-jacking / rape / gangs of thugs / weirdos .... going to do YOUUU "Harm" ... you Neeed "Somethingggg" that Willl Stoppp them !!
just Remember this (and Tell those that you "Care" about,
... "It's better to be Judged by 12 - than Carried by 6 !!"
.... Life vs Death !
- ... i choose Life, every time !!
hope you have a "Safe" and Happy New Year !! 👍🎉🎇🎊🎆 🙏
Good thinking!!
Same in Australia, no weapons, but we can make our own like your hair spray. Always carry something that can disable a person's eye sight, hold car keys in your hand with the point of the key between your fingers securely, wear large rings that can tear at skin. I've been followed several times, both in the city and isolated country areas. Each time I got out of the situation without the need for a true weapon.🇦🇺
@@krisushi1Keys in your fingers will do absolutely nothing. They will rip them from your hand and break your fingers. I suggest carrying a metal ball point pen on your shirt. It’s inconspicuous and will do damage if you aim for the soft spots: eyes, cheeks, throat. Speaking from experience.
You would be labeled rac1st or islamophob1c if the sh1t was one of the two types! Look what happened to that British school b0y and the Syr1an abus£er-turned-v1ctim!Tommy Robins0n investigated the story, exposed the truth, and is now in a solitary cell! UK is going downhill!😢😮
I was in a bus station at night in rochdale in the early 90s and i had missed my last bus so i was going to walk home as i didnt have money for a taxi..as i started to walk i noticed a man in the facing terminus walk the same way watching me..i stopped and he stopped..i walked the other way and he did too and he was smirking, i will never forget his menacing face..it was very quiet and i was really scared..i noticed an empty bus pull in and i jumped on it and asked the driver for help. He watched the man and radioed security and he drove me off the bus station and up onto the main rd close to my home. I dont know who that driver was but i will never forget his kindness getting me home safe. X
Back in the late 80’s, I was a sophomore in college, and very dumb and naive. My then roommate and I decided to take a study break, during an all-nighter, at 2am to go for a walk around our off campus housing neighborhood. I still remember the man. He wore a brown leather jacket and white pants with longish brown hair. At first, I thought he was also just taking an early morning stroll but after a few zig zag paths around the neighborhood, it was clear he was following us. We were so frightened and saw an apartment complex with a wide stairway leading up to a brightly lit area in front of the complex. The complex had an open atrium but had metal bars and doors for security. We stood there not knowing what to do. My roommate started nervously whistling as the man started up the stairs. All of a sudden a voice in the darkness of the atrium said “what is all this whistling noise”! The man scrambled down and ran off as soon as he heard the voice. It turned out the land lady lived on the first floor of the complex near the atrium, and heard the whistle echo in the atrium while she was going to the bathroom. She invited us into her unit and let us call our other roommate to pick us up. I truly think God was watching out for us! Since then, I never take safety for granted.
He sure was . Amen❤
god shows up in many different ways.
One tip I learned in a self-defense class: always have an imaginary set of two males behind you or in front of you whose names you call if you are attacked. For example, if someone approaches you from the front, turn and yell behind you "Mike, Dave!" If you have this in mind, it will look like it's true when you do it if you don't hesitate, and they will think there are two males not too far away. I also sometimes do a fake wave to an imaginary person in the distance if it seems plausible in the situation.
thats not gonna work with me
🍭
I am in the UK and I arrived near my university for an open day - I was a mature student helping to show potential new students around. It was 9am on a Sunday morning, and a man started following me. No-one was around , so I started swinging my arms and walking with purpose, he carried on following me. I turned around to face him , staring at him , looking him right in the eye, and said in a low rough cold voice - ' can I help you?' He turn round and started walking the other way again... job done! I am a 5 foot 1 inch tall female , but he wasn't going to intimidate me...
brilliant. My friend was followed by a male in London. I hope you reported this to police and on street safe
Never underestimate short people, we are the Chihuahuas of the Human world.
YES!
Unfortunatley, the "can I help you?" doesn't always work. I once got into the stairways of my apartment building as a student and was creeped up by a drunk stranger. He mistook this for a genuine question despite me being really cold and confronting, and his answer was that he wanted me to give head. Luckily I managed to get out of this situation with a full display of aggression (much like a very hissing and angry cat), wriggling past his drunken self when I was backed up into a corner and taking my mobile phone, dialing 110 (police in Germany) on the way outside. He then ran away, but not without yelling "I didn't want you anyway", of course. 🤦♀️
Might want to shout, "Have you met Jesus?!? Lemme tell you about Jesus cos I can tell you need to meet your Maker!" If someone said that to me I'd be out of there, and I'm not a bad guy but a retired woman. There's no nut like a religious nut.
I was 13 years old. Alone. Walking 3 blocks away from my home. Going 3 more block to the candy store. I had permission to spend my babysitting money on sweets. It was shortly after 1pm on a hot summer day. I was walking in my neighborhood . On the sidewalk going with the flow of traffic. The street was lined with the houses of friends all around me. Just a usual long, lazy, hot summer day. I was dressed in a matching short and top outfit, popular in the early 1980s. Got it for my birthday, just days before. I had on tennis shoes with no socks. Lots of waist length flowing, pretty blonde hair. A car pulled up to the curb. The lone male driver called out to me from his car for help. I innocently walked over. He unlocked the front passenger door and asked me to hop in. I hesitated . He said I was so pretty and that he could take good care of me. He showed me a very pretty necklace. He said it could be mine . Just get in. I was frozen. Suddenly, another car appeared on the street. The lone male driver talking to me panicked. He closed the car door and left me scared, confused, speechless and still frozen on the curb. That unknown driver of the other car saved me that day. By just showing up. It took years for me to realized how close I came to being abducted. In my OWN neighborhood. Just 3 blocks from home. SAFETY TIP: I now ALWAYS walk AGAINST traffic…and so should you!
I've always walked against traffic, but I never considered it being beneficial for this particular situation! Thank you for sharing, how scary!
That guy had a necklace in his car? How many girls did that work on? I hate to think he probably harmed a lot of girls.
As someone who has experienced being followed only to be told by my (then) partner that I must have imagined it, I just want to say a huge thank you for believing your wife. When I was in my twenties, I was followed around a busy London park. I had gone there to enjoy a packed lunch and to spend the afternoon sketching the wildfowl. It was while changing location and looking around that I became aware of a guy who appeared to be following me. As it was very busy, it could have been that he was simply strolling in the same direction so, I crossed a broad, busy footbridge, looked back to see him crossing the bridge as well then I doubled back over it. When he did the same, it was all the confirmation I could ask for and I decided that I needed to just get away because, if he caught up with me in such a crowded park, I sure as hell would have caused a scene but, I knew that he would be able to either deny what he was doing or just melt back into the crowd. The park flanked a wide, open road that led up to Buckingham Palace and I figured that if there weren't any taxis on the road, I would surely find a policeman as I neared the palace (this was the 80s, mobile phones, if they existed at all, were still at the housephone-and-car-battery stage of development). To reach the road, I had to cross a broad expanse of open lawn, that at least made me visible to passing traffic and enabled me to get a good view of the park. I walked at speed to reach the road, looked back and there he was, still at walking speed but cutting across the grass towards me to catch up. All I had weapon-wise were pencils but, even though I was scared, I was also furious that this absolute creep had robbed me of my right to enjoy the park and made me feel unsafe. I was almost tempted to just turn around and charge right at him, I felt that angry. Anyway, not a policeman in sight but I did manage to flag down a cab and get away.
I felt frightened, frustrated and just wanted to go home. At least (I thought) I had the comfort of a thoughtful, supportive partner to turn to, once I got home but, no. He flatout accused me imagining it and overreacting. After the experience I'd had, to be let down the one person I thought I could rely on for support was crushing. It was easily two decades before I felt confident enough to enjoy being in a park by myself again but I don't think that I've ever fully trusted a partner to not let me down sooner or later again.
I know that it's not the focus of this video but, believing someone when they tell you about any kind of harrowing experience that they've endured, means so much to that person and makes a huge difference to their moving on from it.
I hope you got rid of the partner that didn’t believe you were being followed.
Definitely, the callous response of an ignorant, unsupportive, disillusional partner can be just as bad as the horrifying ordeal you just escaped. Seriously traumatizing to be discredited after that. That hurt lasts longer, because he's _not_ the "bad guy."
@@enjoystraveling i literally checked the replies to see if they left them
It says ‘my (then) partner’ which implies that they aren’t together anymore
@@AnonymousAnonymous-ts1we oh yeah you’re right
I was driving a city delivery route and stopped at a convenience store. My doors we're locked and I sat there organizing before I went in to get something. I glanced up and saw a guy standing at the right corner of the building. I continued what I was doing but immediately knew something was wrong. I glanced back up and he turned to the darkened left corner of the building, gave one head shake to a guy there. They both looked at me sitting in my car, I put it in reverse and left. I believe I was going to be robbed or car jacked. Mom taught me to always be aware of my situation.
If we walk out to our car, or are driving in a lot, we really watch the loiterers, we avoid them if possible. We make sure we change course if they’re hanging too close to our car..or wait til a group comes out with you..
Put it in reverse, Terry!
@@TR-nv3ifthank you Jesus!
Always, look around very good before exiting your vehicle l e or home/ business. Too many predator's ...these days!
I'm extra-aware when I'm returning to my parked car, or when I'm in a gas station. If I'm at a gas station and it's nighttime, I try to choose a pump close to the convenience store. When I'm filling the tank, my doors are all locked, and if I'm carrying a purse, it's out of sight under the front seat. When I lock the doors, I do it manually instead of using the key fob. That way, when I'm getting in afterward I open the driver's door with the key, which allows all the other doors to remain locked. (Using the fob would unlock all the doors, and someone could jump in). While I'm pumping the gas, rather than looking at my phone or watching the commercial playing on the pump, I remain aware and observe everyone around me. I lock my doors the same way in parking lots. Especially during the holidays, there are sometimes people walking around the lot scoping out cars and likely up to no good. This includes people who are walking around "selling fruit." I won't go near my car if someone like that is nearby. If they remain near my car, I would go back to the store and ask for an escort. I actually did this one time at a fast food restaurant in Arizona. My truck was parked fairly close to the door and I could clearly see it, but some people that had obviously been asking for handouts in the lot were standing around my truck and not leaving. That made me uneasy, so I asked one of the fast food workers if they could walk me to my truck, which they gladly did. As soon as we came out together, the beggars walked away.
The first time I felt I was being followed was late at night, I ducked into a pub, explained the situation, the police were called, and they gave me a lift home.
The second time was in the afternoon. I saw the guy a few times in the supermarket, I noticed he came out after me without purchasing anything, he got on the same bus, and got off at the same stop. When I crossed the road, he did too. The whole time, his focus seemed to be on me, and I don’t want this guy knowing where I live.
Thankfully, I knew my neighbour, Pete, fairly well, knew he was likely to be home, and had his number (my first mobile phone... yes, I'm that old!), so I phoned him, but continued to walk. I figured I was safer if the guy following didn't realise I'd rumbled him because there's not many houses, only fields across the road, and far too many places I could be dragged to out of sight. So, when Pete answered, I said I'd just got off the bus, so he knew where I was, I've got X beer ("I think you have the wrong number") they only had the large pack ("you in trouble?) yes, it's really heavy, could you come help carry it? ("Stay on phone, keep talking.")... How he managed to get out, down the side road and around the corner into view so quickly I don't know, but I'm very grateful he did! He said that when he came into view, the guy following stopped, looked around, and then ran off down a side track.
Pete was pretty sharp to understand immediately that something was wrong.... Glad you got home safe! And I'm from '77 so also no " spring chicken" 😂
a female comedian - rachel feinstein - was in one of those middle of state states doing a show and staying at a random hotel - the maintenance guy talks to her at the front desk as she was talking to reception and says he needs to fix something in her room - they go up the elevator together, they walk down the hall together with him trailing her, and when they get to the door of her room, she takes out her phone and starts checking her tour dates - he asks her if she's going to come inside and look at what's wrong, she says no, you go ahead and fix whatever needs fixing, and continues to check her phone (all the while getting all sorts of danger signals regarding him). He openly drops the act, doesn't "check on what needs checking on" in her room, and simply leaves to go back downstairs.
@@sammuis01 Ikr! If I answered the phone, I would've said "what are you bangin on about? I don't drink beer" 😅
That's so creepy. I was once on the bus and could feel a guy at the front of the bus staring at me. I looked up to make sure my spidey senses were correct and, yup, a guy about my age was just intently staring at me. I looked back up at him a couple of minutes later with a look that said, "why are you staring at me?" but of course, this didn't deter him, and he kept staring. So I decided I was going to stand at the back exit (which is toward the middle of the bus) as if my stop was coming up and sure enough he got up and stood at the front exit where he was sat by and that's when he started smiling while staring at me. The bus comes to a stop and I start to go down the couple of stairs of the exit but stop before getting off, and I see him exit the bus. Then I turned around and sat back down and this man looked so dumbfounded and stupid as he watched the bus leave with me still on it 😂😂
I do grape 🍇
I can’t help being desperately sad that women have to think this way - what is wrong with society that we can’t feel safe walking to our car, home or work???!!!
What is heartening is all those good people who have helped when asked.
unfortunately so, when men have a relaxing walk, woman can have a horror expirience
You’re just being paranoid
67 female now but at 15 yrs old I was walking to my grandma's 2.5 blocks up the street. She called at around 9 p.m. wasnt feeling well so I told her I would come spend the night and leave mom a message at work knowing she would stop and check on us when she got off at 11 p.m. I had one block to go and was nervous as the same car drove by 3 times. Gut told me hide. There was a house 3 doors away that was empty. I ran into a backyard and crossed 2 yards to get to that home. Luckiest day of my life, door was not locked. I ran in, locked the door, cried so hard. After about 15 minutes no longer heard any car, looked out windows on all sides of home that had windows and hit the street running, 3 doors to grandmas. Made it but since that day I never walk alone especially at night. Never know where the creeps are.
I could feel your terror. Thank God you're safe!!!
You probably saved your life.
@eileeneamon9070 it's such a crazy world out there. I would be afraid to live in the US. I'm female, short, thin, not driving, I walk a lot. Everytime I hear or read stories like this, I almost paralyze, I feel what the target (don't wanna say victim) feels.
God protected you and gave you intuition, not luck.
Bahahahahahaha! It was me that night! I’m now 87! Na,sorry love,it not funny& glad you alive to post story.Im not from the States but from NZ& read so many horror stories of crime of all sorts in America!
I live in NYC and I just got off the train making my way out the subway. I noticed this dude that was in the same car I was in got off too and was walking behind me. He kept walking up the stairs and kept right behind me. He did this for a bit until I turned around and yelled as loud as I could, why are you following me!!!! The look of terror on his face said it all. He ran. I had a few folks come up to me to ask if I was okay. Not gonna lie I was scared but I was mad as hell too. I no longer walk with headphones on either and I am very aware of my surroundings. Stay safe and alert folks! Happy New Year!!
My daughter was followed by a crazy guy from manhattan to Brooklyn. She ducked into a bodega and they called the cops. Glad you’re ok, you did the right thing.
Yes. Don't walk with headphones on.
I did that once too but I was getting into my car and they asked for money, I told then no they then tried to come closer to me forcing me back into my car with them on the other side of the car door and instead of getting in, I pushed my door open into them and yelled get the eff away from me and they turned and left quickly lol
@@kathleenr4047 Or staring at your phone. People need to be more vigilant.
@@CuriousandCultured Well, I only reiterated cuz she said she no longer walks with headphones on. --- but yes, people should be more vigilant and aware of their surroundings. And looking at your phone is not being aware of your surroundings.
Excellent advice, Daniel.
I’d like to add that people also shouldn’t distract themselves with texting or listening to music while walking or even when stationary, such as waiting for a bus. Besides decreasing situational awareness, these activities can actually attract criminals in the first place because they signal that you’re distracted and hence easier to sneak up on.
I shop in a sketchy commercial area always at 6am. I carry a bogus "shopping list". When ever I fell someone staring at me, with ill intent, for no good reason, I break psychic contact, by looking down at my list. It has served me well, until now...Of course, when looking down, my radar is on high alert.
Not being on your phone should be number one for situational awareness. Don't be distracted!
Totally agreed best advice. People are more being or robb when you're not paying attention to your surrounding.
Also, someone on a bike could easily steal your phone out your hand and ride off, even if they don't mean to harm you otherwise.
I don't blame victims EVER. It's always the criminal's fault. But that is something I am wondering too. When you go outside you listen music with your earphone's😮😮. I never ever do that. Only In a buss or city full of people In daylight. Not on my walk's and not In the dark. Coz I want to sure I can hear everything all the time and listening music people usually dissapear In they're own world. And i walk middle of the road/sidewalk so if someone is gonna attack me I will see them corner of my eye and have time to react and I have really small scissors with me😂.
I was a kid in Phoenix AZ, in the 80"s. I hadn't lived there long. I went to PV mall with my mom and my sister. I walked away from them to do my own thing, I was a total geek and I walked super fast so when a grown man was keeping up with me it was very disturbing. I went into a book store and stood next to the register until he left. My heart was racing I knew he had bad intentions. I was 12 at the time. I am glad I listened to my intuitions.
Thank God you listen to your intuition could have also been your angels guiding you and giving you full warning that this guy is some kind of scum pervert
I was once followed in a quiet shopping center, by two men.
The moment I walked out of the Bank, I saw them watching me as I was walking in their direction. As I turned around one of the corners in the shopping center, I could feel that they were following me.
What happened next was an absolute miracle from God.
As I was walking, I heard Holy Spirit commanded me to "Turn around!!!" I knew if was to give another step, then they would grab me. So, immediately I turned around and they were right behind me and I walked right in between them. They could've easily grabbed me, but it was such a swift move, that I caught them by surprise.
I then turned around again to see what they were doing and saw the two men had split up in different directions. I quickly went into the nearest shop and stayed there until I felt it was safe to get to my car.
All glory to God!
It'd be a lot easier if a kinder god didn't create feelings like that in people. My sister was Christian and attacked by 2 men as a teen and still has scars. All those poor kids attacked by priests. Hmmm I guess god just prefers you and let's the rest suffer. Lucky you.
Glory to God!!!! Im sure your Guardian Angel helped too.❤❤❤
Should have then had the shop call Mall security and gotten these guys removed before they target someone else.
@@charcushman9507 He did, His name is Jesus.
@@inthesun3884oh my gosh! I don’t think I’d shop there!!!
I was riding a bike on a quiet neighborhood street a car turned onto the street behind me. I felt afraid of this car from that moment i knew they came this way because they saw me. So, I went on the sidewalk. He pulled past me stopped and got out walked to the back of the car. I went back on to the street to make a wide arc around him. He said excuse me in a friendly tone, and then lunged at me as i steered around him just out of reach. Lucky my gut had me strategizing from the first moment. Never ignore that feeling. Its clear as a bell.
@@StasiaLund-uc8oq similar experience--i was driving in a rural area and came upon a kid on a bike who was cornered by a man in a truck. I just pulled up and asked the man if he needed directions finding someone and the kid took off like he was shot out of a cannon. Having had many experiences with pervs in my youth I just recognized the kid was scared and alone --always been glad I gave the kid an out and if the man wasn't a perv no harm was done
Oh my!! 😮 I’m so glad you got away!!!
That’s horrible! 😢 The friendly tone too… some people are monsters. I hope you’re doing ok now
That's terrifying! Glad you got away
Some folks are not human! They just LOOK human and walk on two legs! 😱☹️Stay safe, ladies! 🩷
A million years ago...back in the 80s my friend and I worked for the same gas station company. I worked at the west side store, Bill worked at the eastside right on the interstate. He was shot in the head and killed at work in a robbery, guess that was 1982.
Two years later, I was filling in at that exact station.
At closing time, midnight, a monte carlo pulled up slowly, sat for a few minutes near the farthest pump, then slowly drove off. It did this 3 times. The last time, I let them see the revolver I had. They drove off for good. I quit soon after
How did you let them see the revolver after you were inside far from them? Did you get put of the building?
:( glad you ok, sorry about your friend.
So sorry about your friend. I used to love those Monte Carlo’s in the 1980’s.
I am sorry about your friend. This world can really be wicked!
Many times when a person decides to attack someone, they aren’t picky about who they attack, they just want to attack somone (they may be looking for someone of a certain sex, age range, and possibly race but they may not care if it’s one particular person or another). If they can tell right away that there’s something about you that may make you harder to attack while they remain unscathed, they may leave you alone and look for another potential victim. During a study, inmates that were serial attackers were asked if there were ever times that they had chosen a person to attack but then noticed something that person was carrying and decided not to attack that person and look for another victim. Most said “yes”. The number one item that an attacker had observed that made them decide to move on to some other potential victim?: an umbrella. Especially a long umbrella (not the compact kind). (A closed one is best).
Excellent advice. As a young lawyer, I worked very late nights in a very urban setting and parked in a multi-level parking garage. I walked standing tall to maximize my confident body language. I, too, on more than one occasion crossed the street. Like your wife, once the man crossed the street after me. I greeted a business man (not the perp) like I knew him and joined him as he walked toward me. He understood immediately and played along. Whenever possible, I tried to get someone from the firm to walk with me (most of us parked in the same structure which was 2 blocks from our building). I carried a Kubaton in my hand, as this was before pepper spray was readily available. I, too, stopped and turned around and made eye contact and once said "Back off" in a very loud voice. I think that not appearing to be weak or an easy target probably saved me more than once, as well as seeking safety in numbers. Excellent advice and thank you for this video.
Linda this is simply invaluable advice, thanks for sharing!😊
Yes I learned this as a child walking around seedy neighborhoods. Look alert, walk tall, carry a weapon and appear confrontational
A few years back I watched an interview with a female FBI agent talking about this topic. She said people are raised to be congenial/Polite and agreeable to strangers out in the world. She said because of this fact people often ignore their uneasy gut feelings and wind up being victimized or worse - killed.
She said if you are getting a weird vibe, don’t hesitate to make a scene because at the end of the day you don’t know this person who is making you uncomfortable. Better to be alive than dead.
With that said her advice took me back many many years ago when I was living in Boise Idaho. I met up with friends downtown. I’m not a drinker and I was driving and alone. I had to park a bit a ways away from our meetup. On my way to my car at 1am I was walking on the left side of the street sidewalk. I looked over and this guy was on the opposite sidewalk getting ready to cross over slightly ahead if me. As soon as I saw him veer off the sidewalk I yelled over “Don’t even think about it, don’t come over here!” I said it a couple times. He stopped in his tracks and got back on his side. Funny thing is it was more of a knee jerk reaction on my part or projectile vomiting. There was no stopping me from yelling at this guy.
Always, always listen to that small voice.
Exactly on point. I can attest I have done the same as you mentioned. A few times I have turned around and yelled, crossed the street and maintain posture and brisk walk. I will often have a key between the fist to strike a blow if necessary. Vigilance and how you carry yourself make a difference.
@@Supportfreespeech That is really awesome advice. And yes, we are taught to be 'nice' to people and see the best in them. The truth is that screaming at someone who might be a threat, and is a stranger, has absolutely no down side. For others who are interested in why you should trust that little alarm in your head, read the book "The Gift of Fear, Survival Signs that Protect us from Violence." It is written by Gavin de Becker and there are lots of cheap, used copies out there. It is one of the best books I've ever read and a must read for women. You also cannot put it down!
I was " mobbed by a group of male teens ranging from id say 13 up to 20, there were 11 to my count, as i got out of my car in my apt buildings secure underground parking garage. 60yrs old, 5ft 4 woman, and this group suddenly surrounded my car and back talking at me. I worked as an ER Nurse for many years so I just put on my authoritive loud voice saying, " you dont belong down here. WHY ARE YOU HERE. Others trying car doors joined them. The youngest kids headed for the stairs out, but the older bigger guys said " we can do what we want"... with that i slid into my car, id not closed the door yet, and started it and threw it in reverse, and started backing up .. the entire mob ran for the exit with me following in reverse. I dont have a cell phone, so i drove to the nearest police station, and made a report. Describing the 2 leaders best i could. The cops escorted me back, roused the apt landlord, whom we cant bother after 5pm. He knew which apt one of the leaders was visit8ng his grandmother in, because hed had issues with him. So i took a cop and re parked. And the other cops and landlord advised the grandmother of eviction, and got nane of most of the mob. Never saw them again.
It's a cultural thang...
I was followed once while taking out the garbage at a Mall I worked at in Phoenix, Az. I was in my twenties back then. I went through an employee entrance that led to the dumpsters in the back of the mall. I didn't know at the time that someone had been watching or following me. I just remember when I was throwing away stuff I got a creepy crawly sense and turned back a few feet to see why and a white man who looked to be in his 30's-40's, in blue jeans, a long sleeved shirt and Winter type vest with dark sunglasses on, and a beard, was leaning against the back entrance doors where I had just come from...and he wasn't an employee.
The hallway where the stranger was blocking the entrance back, is long and secluded and he had just came out of it. He must have figured I had to go back that way. He was leaning against and guarding the doors that lead back into the mall while staring at me with a grin as I was throwing trash away. But he didn't know there was also another employee exit that was right behind me just inches where I stood.
I knew the whole Mall as I worked at two stores in it. I noticed there was a security guard parked close to the area talking to some customers and the man kept glancing back and forth between the guard waiting to get back in his vehicle and drive away and also me. Then I noticed that parked next to the dumpster, like it was a truck making a deliver, was a huge Diesel truck, very nice, with one of those sleepers in the back, it also had a back too like it was hauling goods.
The man kept looking at that too. The truck was parked so close to the dumpsters. That's when I turned around and opened the door behind me and ran to the other store exit where I also worked and went into a back entrance that led into a very populated food court area. The man was far enough away from where I stood that he could not reach me fast enough while the security guard was in the area as well, even if busy and far away, mall security was still screaming distance away.
I don't know what that stranger was up to, but it made my skin crawl that day I was throwing trash away. I just felt like something was watching me and sure enough someone was. He had no business being in the employee hallways, and the way he stood there with arrogance blocking my way back in...that was especially creepy. Never ignore your God given instincts.
People give off energy that we can pick up on. Sometimes I'm just being paranoid a lot of times. How can we live in fear?
@@corinneyaworski-mh9uc I forgot to add that when I walked through the back way into the food court from the employee hallway, I was at the other end of the food court and away from the customer entrance, that is when I saw the man walking ahead of the food court looking around from the customer entrance, so as soon as I took off from the dumpster he must have walked through the dumpster area. Why go back into the mall?, why was he around that area to begin with?
Who ever he was, he was using the wrong hallways to get through the mall, he wasn't an employee. The mall is like a small city withing itself, everyone knows everyone, even who the guys are who deliver goods. This guy was creepy. I never saw him after that day, I believe he was a traveling trucker and he must have been walking around when he saw me going through the secluded employee hallways and followed me without me knowing at that time.
I didn't even go back to the original store I came from, I went to the other store I worked at and told everyone what happened. I was being extra safe so the guy didn't know where I originally came from. I watched him from behind as he walked through the mall and then left, he didn't know I was behind him at that point. It is like being followed when you are driving home, if that happens, never take them to where you live, drive to a police station or busy area and call the cops
Exactly. Trust your gut. Glad your plan worked.
I worked at a mall and know exactly what you're talking about. Thank God there was another exit.
This brought back horrible memories. I was travelling solo and twice in two different cities I was doggedly followed by men, on each occasion I made eye contact to let them know I saw them, and I could see they didn't care. I even shouted loudly for them to stop following me, and they smiled and I could see it became a game for them, at this point I was close to tears because I could see my 'NO' wasn't valid and what would they do when they had access to me. On one of the occasions I saw a taxi going towards a different direction I ran in front of it. He didn't; want to take me, I started crying and pointing, he didn't speak English but understood. He took me to my accommodation and waited until I got inside the gates. The man that was following me stood outside my accommodation for over an hour just staring. We had security on the door if we hadn't I have no idea what he would have done, the second occasion I knew it was either going to be him or me and I got myself as tough as I could to the point I thought I would rip him apart if I had to or go down fighting and when I turned to address him with that energy, he was gone, a police car had just driven by, I think it may have saved me. Guns and pepper spray are illegal in the UK where I live, and I daresay this happens to women more often than you might think.
UK is a hellhole
I am also in the UK and am worried about the fact we can't hold weapons and the culture (see the comment from someone in London) that people don't help others in this situation. I was followed and pestered by a weirdo just a few days ago but I was in Spain. A weird guy was following me and he was saying stupid things to me. I speak Spanish but pretended I didn't understand to get rid of him. He still kept on. I shouted at him to go away. He did, then returned a minute later walking right next to me saying the same things over and over again. I changed direction and he still followed me. This was day time and it was just bad luck nobody was on the same path. Then I spotted a group of women. I shouted to them in Spanish what he was doing and he started saying stupid things to them and they told him to get lost. They told me to walk with them and we walked the opposite way and one had a dog and said she will set the dog on him if he came back. I heard that pepper spray is legal in Spain but there's no way I'd get on a flight with that from the UK. Maybe someone else in the comments can give us ideas. We can't carry guns, knives or pepper spray :(
I had a paper route in a downtown neighborhood when I was young and learned a lot as some of my fellow paperboys had been mugged. A few things when walking alone which I still do to this day:
1. Never go more than 100 yards or so (less if you suspect something) without looking back.
2. Never walk too close to the buildings....give yourself a bit of space in case someone is waiting in a doorway, behind a building abutment etc. The couple of seconds a few feet of space gives you can be the difference between your life and your death.
3. Make sure you know how to punch. You can lose your balance with kicking. In a sudden encounter one swift very hard punch and a quick gettaway can save your life.
4. Be careful with weapons unless you have training in how and when to use them. A weapon taken from you can be used against you.
5. Never never never let a cell phone, ear buds, etc. distract you.
6. Just because you have a friend or two with you, don't completely let your guard down. Criminals know how to gang up on people.
All the best and stay safe!!
Everyone had really great ideas. I think I can use them also but my age puts me at a significant disadvantage because I’m in my 70s.
I love to hike. Iwas hiking with my young 1 1/2 year old Rottie was with me. I felt like I was being watched on the trail, she was getting skittish. She kept looking behind us. I listened to her, we took a path that took us back, another way. We got in the car,locked the doors and left. It was a State park, though I never saw anyone, I am to this day sure we were being followed. She was a young Rottweiler, but still a protective. Years later, same park, but older male Rottweiler, well trained. We were stopped on a path, stood aside on the trail while 2 men passed. My dog sat in front of me with a low growl, he alerted them that he was watching. They moved on and didn't bother me. Dogs are great in this situation.
I wonder if my Dachshund would help?
@@TwistedQuestionMark 😆😅🤣
Agree! I go on walks with my bullmastiff. He doesn’t have the low growl with people but gets me crossed me off the easy-target list. 😅
Years ago, the same thing happened to me when I was hiking with my dog. In our case I'm pretty sure we were being watched by a mountain lion. My dog was a retired guard dog and was not shy, but he just acted "different" that time. Maybe it was a young one, or maybe it just wasn't hungry, because we were able to get out of there. We never hiked in that area again.
@@TwistedQuestionMark Yes, actually it would. All that yapping and looking back and restless behaviour will draw attention and the person who follows you. Dachshunds usually have the bark of a bigger dog and that may surprise whoever is following you. Also your dachshund will realize someone has ill intent and following you before you do. Remember the potent poison comes in small bottles.That's the real answer but yea it's funny too, I get it.🐕💞
Yes I’ve been in this situation. Late at night. I sped up and hooked on to the shoulder of a large guy walking in front of me. I just kept walking right behind him. He looked down at me and I smiled up at him at which point he glanced behind him and saw the dude following me. I think he understood what was going on and turned his head to really look at the guy behind us - who then vanished.
You latched on to another potential predator...but I'm happy you made it out ok :)
@ lol. There is only so many of them out there and they are a minority. I follow my gut.
They might be working in pairs. Good guy/bad guy. You’re taken and dead. BE CAREFUL who you trust
@ they might be. But if you end up in a situation like this your ability to read energies enhances so high it’s like reading a book. The first guy was “locked” onto me. You feel that. It’s how you know you’re being followed. The second guy had no idea I was there. If he was working as a pair I’d have felt the connection to me.
Be careful trying this!, I was once being followed by a man in a store, I turned around and started following him in return, he seemed shocked, turned around and walked quickly out of sight . These type situations depends, there is no one size fit all solution
I did that too one time. Really startled the guy and he took off the other direction. I was on a deserted neighborhood street in the middle of the day, didn't have much choice but to try that one. I stopped walking alone like that afterwards in lonely areas. Really shook me.
Also, here’s a nice thing that people can do to help each other feel safe, when my husband goes walking in the neighborhood and he sees a person approaching or especially if he ends up behind a woman, he crosses to the opposite side of the street. My son in law (who IS the brute squad LOL) does the same, these are guys who have listened to our stories and have taken us seriously, and yeah, my husband was followed so he knows how it feels.
Bless him!
isn't that nice, it is so nice when men cross the street when they see a woman. I have never seen men do that to me, they seem to be totally ununaware that women get scared if a man runs from behind them or gets too close. My bf was followed by a man from the toilets
I just taught a young man the same and to not speed up.
@@annelbeab8124 that’s excellent!
I'm an older 5 foot tall woman, living in Australia.
Late one night, I got off a train.
Walking home in the dark, I heard footsteps behind me, getting closer and closer, then a man's voice say "Don't be afraid. I'm just going to pass you" and I saw the figure of a tall young man with his long legs, walk past me.
Even though I wasn't afraid, I was very touched by how considerate and respectful he was, knowing that there are a lot of good men/ people in this world.
Assume you are being followed anytime you are out and make it a habit to turn around to confirm you are not. As a woman walking alone, this is the best advice I've gotten and still use today. There have been times I was indeed being followed or being closely monitored from afar and wouldn't have noticed until it was too late. I also leave and enter my building from different exits so no one can keep track of my schedule. Never tell strangers you live alone. Pretend you are on the phone and say, "Ok meet you outside/downstairs" if someone is making you uncomfortable in a store or mall. You can also say, "I just sent you my location" if you are actually talking to someone or pretending to. You can always approach other people and ask them to pretend you know each other if someone is making you feel unsafe. Carry a compact pepper spray with a clip in your bra or inside your jacket in case your purse is stolen with some loose cash and/or a credit card when walking alone especially at night. Pepper spray at the bottom of your purse won't help you. It must be ready to deploy at any moment. Stay safe.
I was walking to a friends house from the subway in south philly and ended up behind a local teen, and I'll never forget - he just casually turned around to check who was coming up behind him. As a suburban white chick in my 20s at the time, I had still had this feeling of "maybe it's rude if I turn around to look at someone," but when this kid did it in his own neighborhood I realized there is nothing rude about being safe. I do it no matter where I am and never feel bad about it.
I’ve had this happen multiple times and I’ve done what you’ve suggested. What was scarier was when I was on a hiking trail and this happened. I’d like to hear your thoughts on that. For me I happened to be carrying a 9mm that I was proficient in using and if it wasn’t for that I think I would have lost my sh*t in fear. I happened to know the trail and hid in a spot that if he saw me I’d have a clear shot but he passed by. After he passed by I booked it. When I got back to my car he wasn’t too far behind me and showed up out of the trail head into the parking area. So he had doubled back looking for me. I was young and way out in the middle of nowhere Oregon wilderness. I never went alone again. I got spooked again just writing this. There’s times when you know you’re being tracked by someone.
In a self-defense class many years ago, the officer teaching it told the story of his wife in a frightening situation. Fearing rape, she squatted down and shat her pants, making it an unwelcoming idea. One of the smartest things I've heard. Messy, yes. Smart, absolutely. Don't ever stay in danger because you don't want to bring attention to yourself. Yell, make noise, etc. All better than really bad things that could happen. And every female should attend self-defense classes before high school and college. I hate that this is true, but it is. Be aware, ladies. And thanks to the gentlemen who realize how scary this is and take steps to make us feel safer.
Yes, I heard in my youth "urinate, defecate, regurgitate" from a coworker whose dad was a police officer.
I hope I have a loaf ready to pinch should I ever find myself in such a situation. I've often considered shouting, "I have AIDS!!" might be helpful.
lucky she can do this on cue
My partner, ex military, said this is what he was taught during his training as well.
Interesting, I always thought people who are sick enough to do something like that anyway wouldn’t care if things got “messy.” I guess they have some standards
When I was definitely followed as a teenager by grown up man. I crossed the street and all but he was really following me, i turn towards nearest bigger shop. They were selling clothes. I quickly mingled between people, grabbed 2 hoodies from nearest rail and disappeared into fitting room. from there I could see him, looking for me as I watched him. When he was far from my place a went out and got safely on the bus. I am so happy that I had this reaction!!
I've done the same thing and told a saleswoman that someone was following me. They were very helpful.
@@laurat7932 It's great when we find help. I'm glad you got to the safety.
So many mentally ill out there in the world They are everywhere.... Sometimes I think it's 50% of the population... What I mean is 50% of the population has some sort of mental issue even if it's just anger or extreme anger, not that 50% of the population follows women
Just a funny quick story! Back in the 70’s I was in my mid twenties. I had long hair a little past my shoulders. I was followed home after leaving a bar with friends one night. I was armed and knew I was being followed. I pulled up in front of my home. The guy following me pulled up right behind me. When I got out & he saw my facial hair, he pulled away rather quickly. Guess I wasn’t his type! 😂
🤣
🤣🤣🤣
😂😂🙌🏻👍🏻
L.o.l.
Yeah, being a man helps mooooore than anyone can imagine.
Be as intimidating as you can you. I've been followed multiple times in my life. My favourite move is when they're stalking subtly bit behind opposite side of the street. I stopped, stared him out then proceeded to turn and cross the street towards him yelling "you thinks it's effing cool to follow a single woman all creepy?" He spun on his heel and ran off. One time dude was actually innocent and told my friend that I was so aggressive he thought I was going to rob him or something
yep I've always said this.. you might have the physical prowess of wet cardboard, but if you are actually scary aggressive people back off. Yes it might not affect all of them but most of them are cowards (which is why they sneak about following you)
😂😂😂 👏👏👊❤
😂😂😂😂
thats not gonna work with me 🍭
I am a 65 yo woman and i swear my head is always on a swivel. I got my eye on you😂 thanks for sharing 😊
very well said. I think as we get much older we get more vulnerable ie easy targets for crims. we need to be alert. I also carry a body camera with me.
69 female.and I also keep my head on a swivel.😮
@@lingra1438 The head swivel like in The Exorcist! That would scare someone off for sure.
My older brother shared a story with me that back in the 1990s he and my sister-in-law were vacationing in North Carolina and walking down a street (I want to say the city of Raleigh) one evening heading to a restaurant. My brother noticed an unsavory character began to follow them at a short distance. So, my brother and sister-in-law crossed the street, and this stranger did the same. To test it more, they hooked a right and left, but the guy stayed on their heels. Then my brother verified his gut feeling and tried one last thing. So, they started walking faster, and so did the guy. So, my brother told her to keep walking, and my brother spun around after a hard stop and told the guy he was onto his game. This freaked this guy out, and he quickly scampered away into the darkness. My brother didn't have any tools on him, but his keen awareness and confrontational attitude prevented an event from unfolding. Maybe he just got lucky, I don’t know because this dirtbag may have had a weapon on him.
I accidentally did this once but its because I was lost, it was dark out, I thought they knew the way out, and also didnt want to be left behind and alone 😅
I could be wrong, but I feel that acknowledging a person that you’re aware of them (w/o escalating) works 99% of the time. So many people think “If I just ignore them they’ll go away, “ but that can make you more vulnerable in their eyes. Just my two cents.
Utilize the fear, transmute it into an energy which you can then give back to whoever is scoping you out. Then have No fear! (It's an illusion..,~)
Well, even if that's what my instinct would tell me to do also, I read that it's a bad idea because once the stalker knows you've seen their face, they'll want to disable you even more, because you could report him.
I'd rather go into a crowded place, find a police man, call a friend, get a cab etc. I don't think I would confront a stalker alone. I'm a female and quite small, it wouldn't end up well if we were all alone.
I think he took a calculated risk and got lucky.
When i was young & naïve, i decided to head home late at night , alone! I caught the night bus & then started walking the last 5 minutes home , as i walked i could here a light dragging sound behind me , i stopped & the noise stopped, i was terrified, i sped up & so did the noise, i raced into my gate & hammered on the door, my brother let me in & as i turned around i realised my bag strap had broken & my bag had been dragging across the floor behind me , like a stalker, what a relief. As a woman i would never go out alone at night .
Funny story. Thanks for the chuckle.😂
You poor thing but I’m glad it ended in a laugh. 😅
I was thinking that was too much like a movie, lol.
Being a bit of a scairdy-cat myself, I had to laugh about the scraping sound - and relieved you were okay😊!
I can imagine the ribbing you got from your brother.😅 I have brothers too so I know, but good on you for perceiving danger.
I've been followed twice. First was in the day on a busy street, so I was confident to confront the guy. He admitted he was following me and wouldn't leave till I got other men to chase him off. Even in such a low danger environment, it was still very frightening. 2nd time was at night on a quiet street but near homes. I stopped, faced him, took out my phone, and started dialing police. He ran off right away. I was very lucky both times that I wasn't isolated and had resources at hand.
My friend and I were walking in an affluent older neighborhood back in the early 1970s when a man started following us. We zigzagged our path, but he continued to follow us. It was all residential, no businesses within a half mile at least. In desperation, I picked a house and told my friend to follow me without hesitation and that we were going to walk up its steps, open its front door and walk right into that house like we lived there. And that’s just what we did. Luckily the door was unlocked. The older couple sitting in the living room were of course surprised, but not threatened by two teenage girls, especially after my explanation. They watched the stalker pass by their house, and also noticed he looked up at their house as he passed. We waited a few minutes before leaving, heading in a totally opposite direction to reach our bus stop. Whew!!! Yes, I took a chance the homeowners could have been unwelcoming or the door might have been locked, but what else was there to do?
We all kept our doors unlocked back then. Its too bad things are different. I lock my doors always. Even when i let my dogs into the dog run and daylight i lock my doors. Its sad we have to do that
I was pushing my infant daughter in stroller down the street. It was daylight and people were outside. I know this sounds crazy, but it was like I felt a demon monster was following behind me. The skin around my ears became sensitive and it was like I could hear a monster breathing. I stopped immediately and turned around and stared that man directly in the eyes. He snapped out of it and walked past me. I was shocked and scared. I waited a moment and surveyed my surroundings before I walked into my apartment and up 4 flight of steps to my apartment. Whew! Glad my instincts kicked in.
dude definitely went on and harmed someone else (x5)
I had similar experience. Had uneasy feeling and turned around to see a dude following me closely with a empty fixed stare. Our eyes met ..he knew I knew.(thinking back it wasn’t his first time at all) He followed me from the metro down the street. He smirked when I looked back to face him the second time. I’ve slowed down and let him pass. Then dunked through the bushes via a shortcut to the parallel street. But when I’ve turned a corner towards my house, he was there .. spotted me across the street, crossed it and walked directly on me. There were other ppl , it wasn’t that late. It’s like he knew his game is up and he cant stalk me anymore .. but he thought that I’m running away and he was ready to enjoy my fear. But , in my 30s it wasn’t my first time with the predators. (Being short, blond and on a feminine side , I might look like an easy mark) Looking straight into his face I kept walking in a calm pace in a straight line. When we were about to collide his smirk got crooked, the face was like of a cat that just discovered that his mouse got rabies. He stepped aside just a little, still on my way and I just crashed in him and walked through with my elbow first. Turned my head and loudly cursed at him .. Glanced back but kept going straight at the same pace. His face was very confused and .. exposed, he didn’t like the noise the trouble .. and the lack of my fear. He quickly, but calmly walked away. He was on a hunt and it definitely wasn’t his first one.
There is something, that cold chill on the back of your neck when one senses that a predator is fixed on you. But absolute majority of them are opportunistic, they don’t like too much trouble, exposure or victims that do not act like victims. They know they are perves to be hunted down themselves.
It’s just sad that we got to even go through this…
There should be a discreet code word we can use for being followed , when running into a supermarket or bar or anywhere where there's people. They have a special code for when online dates turn creepy,so they should have something in place for general creepy stalking .
One thing I learned in my cpr courses was that people are less likely to help first with larger groups of people present, known as the bystander effect.
An effective way to call out for help is to call out an individual person. Use identifying factors “you with the blue shirt, you with the green hat, etc.” as it places an urgency on them to help
I believe that we should always listen to that little voice/instincts whatever you want to call it.
When I was 18, working a fairly late shift at a grocery store, I had a man approach me and tell me he would be waiting for me when I got off. I didn't know this guy, so I told my manager I was creeped out by his statement. The manager told him to leave and the man refused, so my manager called the police. I called my dad who came to get me prepared with my brother. The police were arresting the guy when I left with my dad behind me in his vehicle and my brother with me.
Now, as an adult with four children under 10, this is a scenario I've thought of, what would I do. Thanks for going over this.
Bloody hell! The audacity
My father taught me how to walk the street in Manhattan in the eighties. Walk fast, no eye contact, OR eye contact that is NOT friendly. Once at the port authority, he did have to get physical. Nothing like a father protecting his son. I learned a lot that day, I can still visualize it
It's even worse these days.
he needed to call the police
My mom grew up in kc mo, she said the same thing..don’t make eye contact, but be aware and don’t go off alone where no one else is ( alley shortcuts, off beaten path
As a teenager in the 70s, I was sitting on the front steps of my building at 1 AM waiting for a friend, when I saw a car drive by. A few minutes later, I recognized the same car drive by again. At that point my gut put me on alert. Across the street I noticed I could see the reflection of his tail lights in some windows. I watched to see if he would drive away. Instead, I saw his brake lights come on, so I knew he was coming for me. I bolted into the front foyer and was halfway up the stairs behind the inner locked door when a man ran into the foyer with his pants open.
I never forgot how I escaped a close encounter by watching his reflection in some windows. Keep your eyes open and use everything at your disposal to know what’s going on around you. And yes, I never sat outside alone late at night again!
@ omg, you escaped by a second..Good for you and curses on that guy!
Absolutely good advice, I’m glad your wife kept herself safe, smart lady! I walk for exercise through my neighborhood in my small town and have had this happen a number of times. I never speed up my pace, I start to walk basically like a man and I always make eye contact. I carry pepper gel and taser combo as well as a quick release lanyard heavy with metal keychains that I’ve practiced with. I’ve even had a creeper follow me at walking pace in his car, I pulled out my phone and pointed it towards him, and yes, I’m still here. Awareness is the best weapon. In addition, if you like to listen to music or podcasts while walking, only use one earbud and use a volume that allows you to be aware of noises around you. Thank you also for doing this talk about people and not just women, my husband had a big truck follow him for two blocks while walking once, it was really scary, he called me to describe the truck as it was happening and they drove away once they saw him on the phone. Stay safe friends!
I had almost the exact same experience. I got off late from work one night around 11pm. I lived just a couple blocks away. A teenager I worked with was having trouble getting a ride home so I stayed with her while a cab came. While we were waiting for a cab I noticed I had seen the same young man pass us a couple of times just walking up and down the same street while we were waiting. This already had me on alert but I didn't mention anything to my young coworker because I didn't want to scare her. To my horror, but not surprise, when my coworker left in the cab he started following me as I walked home. It was late and the streets were pretty dead but I got lucky and noticed a group of women across the street. I quickly walked across the street and started walking with them. When I turned around the young man was still watching me but he gave up following me. Stay alert everyone. I'm still extremely grateful I noticed him early on
When I enter a new space -- exiting store, exiting elevator, etc -- I like to pause, take in my surroundings. Helps my situational awareness and let's any creep know I might not be the easy target he's looking for.
exactly, I don't want to be an easy target at all. I also make sure I am on my own in lifts, and walk out if anyone particularly a man gets in
That is a good video. Thank you. I was followed when I went on a hike in a lonely forest. First, I realized that someone was following me, was when I received an intuitive perception about it. I started to feel a painful feeling in my solar plexus which got worse by the minute. I had the urge to hide behind a bush, but then I tried to be rational and pushed these feelings away. The bad vibes but got worse and worse when I all of a sudden saw a tall man in a beige suite (that was so weird, to wear a beige suit in a mountain forest). He appeared on the path that I was on. There was a turn on the path, that is why I only saw him then. He was about 20 meters away from me and when he saw me we locked eyes, and my blood felt as if it was freezing. I had a strong sensation that this man wanted to harm and kill me. He started to look for a stick. My first instinct was to simply run away from him, but where? As it would only lead me deeper into the forest.
In that instance, what I did, as I had no weapons of any kind with me, I started to pray for help and a voice told me to turn towards that man, walk towards him, and not look into his eyes but pass him calmly and then run for my life into the direction of the mountain settlement that was about 15 minutes away from. Due to my prayer, I felt a strong LIGHT wall around me all of a sudden. I held on to that awareness as I was completely scared.
So I pushed my enormous fear away, slowly walked towards that man, who was standing there with that stick, and I did not look into his eyes, he did not move an inch when I passed him, but then I started to run, and it felt as if I run for my life.
When I did run along the forest path, I avoided to look behind me as I was afraid that if I see him, the fear will slow me down. I reached the settlement and entered a restaurant. I was shaking. The first person seeing me, was startled and said " What on earth happened to you? _ and she helped me and calmed me down. Also informed authorities.
This experience changed my life. Since this day, I always listen to my hunches and intuitions and not try to rationalize them even if direct physical proof is absent.
Sounds like he saw you elsewhere and followed, maybe why he was in suit. I have often wondered what was it that day that transpired between me and a stranger. Trust your gut, your intuition and feelings.
I had a glass window in front of me that saved my life
@@gerismith1218 I never thought about that he could had already followed me when leaving the little settlement. It was a November day, very foggy. No tourists on that high plateau in the Austrian Alps. When I entered the forest, already after about 250 meters I started to receive weird impressions. A bird let out a sound and the thought popped up in my head " This is a messenger of death". It was so weird but I still walked on, when I seemed to see BEINGS standing in my path telling me to turn around and not go into the forest this day. I actually thought I have a vivid phantasy and ignored that. I walked on and the path turned left when it got intense. I suddenly SAW little earth-colored gnomes in front of me, screaming hide behind that bush, hide behind that bush. I understand if many people might not believe me, and I have never experienced anything similar before and I myself did not believe what I was experiencing (but I experienced it later a few times again when I was hiking with a group of friends up a high mountain and we took the wrong path and it got completely dark and we there was someone guiding us and similar). I thought in my head, that cannot be that I see gnomes, I am not clairvoyant, so this was my self-talk. Then there was a HUGE pain in my solar plexus, I turned my eyes back to where I was coming from, but there was nothing there to see on the earthly level, but I SAW a MONSTER coming towards me on a finer level, with knives, bloody, a gorilla-like figure, primitive. Then that man appeared with that beige suite.
Yes, we need to listen to our intuitive warnings as it can help us evade a lot of harm. All the best.
God was with you, protecting you from all harm. That man would not touch you.
@@MaggyKN Thank you for your comment. Yes I know. The inner voice told me also other things in the one minute I made my decisions. It told me for example, that I am at a Crossroad on that day, and I will either die or live. I have to proof today that my Faith in God is strong.
I appreciate that "follow your gut feeling" is stressed. If you change your route and it turns out they were simply walking in the same direction, the only thing you've lost is a few steps. "The Gift of Fear" book makes a similar point - trust your gut.
Love that book! I was just coming to the comments to suggest it.
I’ve definitely been followed, the most surprising incident being recently in my 30’s, in a tourist-y area of Canada. I thought they were for sure just walking in my direction, but after the 2nd or 3rd time stopping to “check” my phone, he stopped as well and I knew something was up. I did an about face and high tailed it to a nearby pub, sat outside, and looked and behold the guy followed.
I was ready to go in the pub and ask for help/ if someone could help me call a taxi to my hotel, but luckily, *luckily* , 2 wonderful girls (whom I passed walking earlier) noticed what was going on and came to make sure I was ok. I explained the situation (we switched to speaking in Spanish at that point so the guy couldn’t understand), and they offered to walk with me. They said this was incredibly rare there, but since they saw everything they were adamant about making sure I was ok. I was so grateful for them! 🙏🏼
LISTEN TO YOUR GUT!!!! DO NOT WORRY ABOUT BEING PARANOID!!! IS BETTER TO BE PROACTIVE THAN FIND OUT YOU WERE WRONG IN YOUR ASSESSMENT OF THE SITUATION.
"Just because you're paranoid don't mean they're not after you. "
You cannot turn a decent man into a rapist by being 'rude' .... and no decent man would mind you keeping yourself safer
Your gut instinct never lies to you. It's God's protection.
@@Daniela-Christianson Amen!
@@theripper1705 💯💯💯🙌🏻
Wish more people would think this way.
This is good advice, women always have to be alert. Although I have never gotten any assistance from the police when I did ask for help. My ex military neighbor started stalking me in a subtle way, walking by or riding his bike by my condo, showing up at the library, used a drone to fly by my balcony and car and flying when I walk. I reported it and you're right, often no one will help you!. I confronted him, changed my phone number, quit talking to him, and made 2-3 reports but was not hurt physically. Stalkers are like bulldogs, very, very persistent and undeterred. (Dan Tim Erlich).
Had the vice president of Otis elevator say to keep your floor that you're going to button pushed in during the whole ride with your finger on the button.,... It will express your elevator and not allow it to be stopped for others wanting to get on... Great tip and he should know!
Thank you for this 🖤
One of my daughters at age 14 was grabbed by an Eastern European man on a “tube train” in London and screamed like mad…NOBODY on the train helped her but when at a station a black guy getting on saw what was happening and STOPPED IT - eternal thanks to the guy….police found the guy responsible and TRUE TO UK POLICE TYPE THEY GAVE HIM A CAUTION. My daughter and family learned a VERY VALUABLE LESSON THAT DAY….police do NOT HELP SO HELP YOUSELF.
This is what I worry about in the UK - that nobody will help and we can't carry guns, knives or pepper spray as a defence. I was followed in Spain by a weirdo who didn't care that I knew what he was up to. He kept saying stupid things to me, I loudly told him to go away, I changed direction and he followed right next to me. It was in the daytime too. I then saw a group of women who helped me get away. One had a dog and she said she'd set the dog on him. This was in Spain, luckily I speak Spanish to ask for help. If it was in the UK, I'm not sure if anyone would have helped. :(
Monsters 👹don't give two phux about getting caught or going to prison! 😱
@@WholeGrownWomanwill they even go to prison at this point in UK?
@@w.t.1338 I don't know about the UK, but here in America, they could be charged with attempted abduction/grape and may even do time.
UK men are largely pussies
Thanks. Situational awareness solves a lot of problems.
Amen.🤨
Bingo. Situational awareness is the one thing that would have changed 99% of peoples encounters. You’d be surprised how many people have NO situational awareness at all.
I had a guy smile at me, because he knew that I knew he was following me. He saved his life that night, but he didn't know that part.
I was being followed by a guy on a bicycle, there was no doubt about it.
I indeed went into a store, a bakery. There I told the people this guy was following me. He cycled by twice in both directions, clearly proving my point. Once he had just cycled past and could no longer see into the store, they quickly let me pass through their kitchen and out the back.
I ran across the street into the neighborhood behind my house. There I checked whether or not I'd lost him. I thankfully discovered my action had been successful and I was able to safely walk home.
Always trust your gut! I used to ride my bike to work. One dark, cold December evening I was riding back home. A guy on a bike was behind me in the bike lane, and as I made a left onto a residential street, he had kept on going straight on the original street. But then, a few seconds later there he was, alongside me. He had turned around and come back to turn on my same street. He passed me on the left (sizing me up, perhaps?), and then fell back abreast with me again. Big red flag, so I immediately began sizing HIM up! He was shorter than me, quite thin, and oddly wearing a long, lightweight dark coat that couldn't possibly have kept him warm on a night where the temps were in the mid 30s. (I was wearing a ski parka, and I was cold). I also had a much bigger, heavier bike than he did. I figured if I had to, I could kick his ass. We were riding along a divided street that had a wooded creek running down the middle of it. Just before we came to where I was going to make another left across a bridge over the creek, he asked me in broken English if I would have sex with him. I laughed out loud, and told him in Spanish how ridiculous that was - and that I was older than his own mother. I think that really surprised him, and he didn't know how to react. He kept going straight along the creek, and I turned left and crossed the bridge. That time he didn't follow me. So, fast forward a couple weeks, and there was a local news story about a young man that had been arrested and identified as a serial rapist, with several of the attacks having happened along that very same creek, in the same block! The description exactly matched the guy I had encountered, including the bike. I guess I dodged a bullet that night. But then again, maybe HE dodged the bullet, because I was in no mood to be messed with.
@@magicunicorn6535 sounds like you still dodged a bullet, it can't be fun having to physically fight a person who wants to 🍇 you.
You really had good instincts and acted in a way that shifted him out of his internal narrative of what he was going to do to you in probably a predator/prey story.
How you responded actually kind of reminds me of my husband being approached by someone at gunpoint, asking him to give over his wallet. My husband said: no thank you. And then just continued walking - as he was internally freaking the hell out. He still walked normally, until he turned the next corner and only then started running. He figured the robber might come to their senses and come after him and that showing signs of distress might set the robber off to try and get his wallet again.
Anyway, you go!
a guy sat next to me in the subway and kept staring at me while eerily smiling. eventually got off the subway and he followed me in the streets. by that point i was very scared, i lived in a very deserted area so i couldn't lead him where i lived. went into a drugstore, waited 20 minutes in there, pretending to shop. never in my life have i felt more like a prey and i hated that feeling with my entire being.
Situational awareness from the start. I’m a woman in San Francisco. You guys have heard how crazy gets around here. Well, I haven’t been victimized because I use situational awareness.
If I go out, I’m back at home before midnight.
If you ever have to yell for help, don’t say help scream FIRE. Nobody is going to come and help you most likely but they will certainly come around because they think their house or car might be on fire.
Great reminder!….and, unfortunately true
I agree 👍💯...fire 🔥 works.
your voice is beyond powerful. was taught in self-defense to scream "fire!" because everyone responds to that. 💯💜☝️ ty!
Yes!!!!! I was taught this. Always shout 🔥.
I always carry a whistle on my car keys. Most often when screaming out 'fire' or similar words, it can be seen as a joke. A whistle is piercing and makes everyone turn around.
@@krisushi1 Like a whistle, I carry this gadget that when you pull this tab out it gives out a sound with decibels as loud as an airplane. I also carry my keys with each key between my fingers as a weapon. More than sad that we can't walk without thinking about such things.
not mine im super quiet and have a weak voice :/ bleh.
@aeptacon you'd be surprised how strong & loud you can become when confronted with a predator.
If I have to walk down a quiet street with no traffic I always walk in the middle of the road, never the edges. I think this saved me once as some creeps are afraid of open spaces. Hiding is great as well
I always carry a big keychain in my hand, when i am walking a quiet street, make noise with them.
Stay away from places that smell bad
very goodadvice
Walking in the middle of the street let's you see everything
I'm going to start doing this, thank you for the advice!
Used to take our puppy for morning walks while alone, when the traffic has calmed down and it's quiet. There's a largely open field with just a few homes across from us. Would usually walk up and down that road a few times. The one morning while walking down the road, I saw a man at the bottom end of the road walking up. Something felt off, so I kept watching his reaction while stopping to give puppy a treat. He was still far away and while I gave the puppy a treat he moved into high grass beside the road where he stood in hiding. Because the road goes down in his direction I could see him, but he didn't realize he was visible. Being so far away, I just picked the puppy up and walked back home fast. We live in a complex, so he wouldn't know which house is ours, if he could see where we went. Since then I take our puppy for walks inside the complex whenever I'm alone and do the walks outside of the complex only whith someone else.
I treat it the same as driving a car. Distance, space, keeps you safe. And drive (walk) as though everyone else's car is a missle out to get you. That last part was my dad's advice.
My grandmother told me that my grandfather told her (this could be almost 100 years ago!) that, if he was taking the bus home, and a lady got off at his stop, he would always hang back for a couple of minutes and, maybe, light a cigarette or slightly change his route home and give the young lady time to be on her way and out of sight. I have lived all my life in New York City; sometimes, a lady might be in front of me and I knew we were heading for the same place, I would take my keys out and make noise - just enough to alert her that I was there. Also, if it is possible, if she is wearing heels, she might want to remove them and carry them and run without shoes - but, again, there would have to be quite a distance between the lady and the person she feels is following her for her to have time to do that.
You would follow them from close behind and shake your heels at them making noise so they will run away barefoot ?
@@ti3167 it might be helpful to reread this. First part was Grandpa telling Grandma what he does so a female understands he means her no harm. The second was Grandma saying what she herself would do if she felt threatened
Yes, a woman should take off her high heels to run but also to use the heel as a weapon to defend herself if needed.
Never be in an isolated place, if you are followed, go into a public place- store, gas station, etc. This is how I would handle it as an older woman.
also go somewhere with obvious cameras or a security guard.
I've given these tips on ND several times. I live in Portland, and these skills have saved me more than once since I was 13 years old.