The scary headlines of women disappearing and showing up in body bags have resurfaced and are now tormenting us on social media platforms. The fear is back, this time as a constant reminder that girls and women are not safe out here.

These attacks are not limited to secluded areas or late-night hours; some are happening in broad daylight, as women go about their regular routines. This reality calls for extra caution, urging women to avoid compromising situations—those that give predators an opening. If the attackers are bold enough to strike in broad daylight, imagine what they might do given the right circumstances.

With the festive season approaching, social trips, work retreats and end-of-year parties are among the many activities that will fill schedules. It has been a long year for all of us and the least we can do to thank ourselves is to unwind and let loose while keeping safety front of mind. Women must be extra cautious about who they unwind with and the settings in which they do so.

Carefully select your social circle

Choose your social groups wisely, preferably, they should consist of friends you have known for a long period. Friends who will not lead you into the shackles of the attackers. In case letting loose gets out of hand, ensure that you are surrounded by people capable of taking care of you and ensuring that you get home safely.

Keep your besties informed

In the physical absence of your trusted friend(s), ensure they are aware of where you are by sharing your live location. This is just a precautionary measure. It should happen especially when your guts are warning you.

Make thoughtful transportation choices

After having a good time, be wise about your mode of transport back home. Avoid walking home alone, especially after dark. Instead, order a ride from a trusted online cab application. Some of these applications have an option of sharing the ride with a friend who can track your journey. Ensure you make good use of that feature. Do not accept free rides from people you do not trust.

Trust your intuitions

Girl to girl, if you’re getting a persistent negative gut feeling as you get ready to go out, consider staying home. They say, “trust your gut”—and there’s a reason for that. Intuition taps into the right side of our brain, the hippocampus, and even the gut, signalling potential threats. It’s your body’s way of keeping you safe. Trust those instinctive feelings.

Stay aware of your surroundings

In a foreign environment, beware of your surroundings. Limit distractions like scrolling through your phone. Keep an eye out for who is entering and leaving. Study the behaviour of those around you. Choose a seat that gives you a clear view of the room and the exit. In case of any unusual behaviour from the crowd, do not hesitate to leave the room. We cannot afford to lose any more sisters to femicide.

Ladies, let us protect ourselves and each other. Be your sister’s keeper and let us support each other during these challenging times.

TAKE CARE.