Tips for Women on Staying Safe
By Jessica Varone
March celebrates International Women's Month, a time dedicated to empowering women and equipping them with the tools they need to navigate life's challenges confidently. In line with this mission, we've compiled a comprehensive guide featuring modern practices and essential tips tailored for women. Our insights come from Mr. David Perez, a distinguished figure in the field of security. As the CEO and President of OMEGA International Group Inc., a company renowned for its expertise in luxury market security, Mr. Perez brings a wealth of experience to the table. His background is both impressive and varied, including service in the U.S. Marine Corps, as well as roles at the White House and Pentagon. Holding a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice and a Master's Degree from the University of Southern California, Mr. Perez's expertise and experience are invaluable in creating a guide that helps women feel prepared, protected, and empowered throughout International Women's Month and beyond.
Mr. David Perez is the founder of OMEGA International Group, a private security firm based in Beverly Hills They are devoted to delivering an elevated client experience. Whether that be protection for you and your family, private events, or school activities. A key part of OMEGA’s philosophy is to take the burden of security vulnerability away from each of their clients by providing them with peace of mind to create a five-diamond experience. They accomplish this by providing expert professionals with an extraordinary level of care and confidentiality customized to each client.
David, what are your top safety tips women should know and practice to foster a sense of empowerment?
Be aware. Check-in with your surroundings and your environment, whether you’re at a dinner, private event, or on vacation, so that if something doesn’t seem or feel right at that point, you can tell yourself it may be time to go home or leave that area.
Have a plan. Especially if you’re in a public setting, ask yourself, “what is my plan to leave ahead of time if there was an emergency? Where would I go?” Even take note of this at home. It takes only 60 seconds to create peace of mind.
Stay fit. Take some form of self-defense or workout to make yourself stronger. Projecting confidence is key. Jiu-jitsu is great because your size doesn’t matter; Krav Maga is good for contact, and boxing is great cardio. Keep in mind, predators can sense those who are weak.
Follow your intuition. Women’s intuition is stronger than men's. For women who were interviewed after being attacked and asked if they felt anything, 95% of them said they felt something was wrong but didn’t do anything about it.
Keep your personal life low profile. For women, it’s alright to promote yourself on social media. Just be aware of what you’re promoting, especially during interviews. Before you start, you can let them know what topics are off-limits. Someone who wants to stalk or harass you can get all the information they need online—interviews, social media, etc. They can connect the dots.
Learn to say no. If you’re not comfortable, be confident in saying no. This helps you keep focused on your 'yes' and have a better understanding of your decision.
Surround yourself with good people. Take a close look and remove toxic people. Parents — kids may bring in new friends - keep your inner circle small.
Avoid toxic relationships.
Limit exposure on your social media profiles. Especially personal image — you’re putting yourself in a vulnerable position. Some tips and tricks include delaying your posts — don’t post in real-time, and be cautious when posting on vacation because they know you're not home.
Don’t go out alone, if possible. Meet up with people (close friends, associates, etc.) You’re safer in a group.
What safety tips do you have for women living alone? Keep your doors and windows locked. Also, don't open your door to people uninvited and use the term ‘we’ often. In addition, think about getting a dog or a ‘beware of dog’ sign. Finally, don't advertise that you live alone.
What are the 3 self-defense moves every woman should know? Always remember this — Strike eyes, throat, and groin. Three of the easiest moves. Use your nails to jab the eyes for a quick strike.
Does pepper spray really work or help protect you? Yes, it does help protect you. But NOT the keychain version because it’s not effective. You can legally carry 2.5 oz, easily reaching someone at 10 ft. It kicks in in 3-5 seconds, giving you time to run away. The attacker will be affected for 15 minutes and works on 99% of the population. If they wear sunglasses, spray their nose and forehead, so it drips down behind their glasses.
What should you do if you are harassed or attacked? If it's on social media, block them. If the harassment continues, file a police report that way, there is a record of it. If you’re out in public, alert management to help you out. Call 911 and get yourself to a safe place if you are attacked.
Any common misconceptions you want to clear up? On social media, be aware of what you’re posting. For women - you don't have to be a victim! Have a winning mentality.
Any additional information you would like to share? Make sure to do a background check on any hires, even an intern. Also, let your children know who will pick them up from school. In addition, be cautious on dating sites — watch out for predators or those who ask for money — be smart! Finally, practice your self-empowerment talk — remind yourself you’re a winner and have a strong mindset. That vibe is projected into the world, and you’ll be less of a target.
Your Safety Checklist 2023 challenge — how mentally prepared and physically fit are you?
Home – home security alarm, RING doorbell, beware of dog sign, keep doors and windows locked
Personal - social media & dating profile discretion
Physical - movement and workouts to make you stronger, pepper spray
Mental - prioritizing empowering self-talk daily
