Important that lady drivers keep safe, here’s how in eight simple steps:

Keep the doors locked always, as soon as you get in the car, and as soon as you exit the car. Even when you’re waiting for a friend in a familiar neighbourhood, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Never pick up hitchhikers on the road, or even strangers asking for direction. Don’t wind down your windows to talk to them, it may just be a pretense to get into the car. If communication is needed, a paper and pen on the window is sufficient. Listen to your heart, if you’re not comfortable with helping, move on.

Keep valuables such as your bag, laptop and wallet out of sight. Lots of snatch thief cases have been reported in broad daylight as thieves throw a brick into the front passenger side of the car to obtain bags placed on the seat. Keep it out of view. Out of sight, out of mind!

Always have sufficient petrol in the car, as you never know where you’re needed to drive with our hectic demands in life. Don’t leave it till the last drop, else it’ll be a dangerous mistake if your car gets stuck in an unfamiliar neighbourhood.

You never know when you’d hit a crisis, so keep a set of emergency numbers to dial right at the front pocket of your car. Numbers to remember include: the police, MAA,  loved ones, servicing centre, dealer and others. Remember to keep a torch light in the front pocket as well!

Listen to your inner voice or your sixth sense, if you feel your car is being followed. Flash your lights, sound your horn and don’t be afraid to seek help. Pull into a busy shopping mall or a police station where there are loads of witnesses and passer bys. It is important to stay calm and focused, and not panic. 

As a female driver, it is always sensible to be aware of where you park, especially if you are coming back to your car after dark, as the character of a street or car park can change once the offices have closed. When returning to you car, remember to keep your keys to hand. Always park in a well lit busy area. Never sit in your car for a long time once you have returned to your car.

Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Always try to park in well lit areas, and in unfamiliar territories, keep your loved ones aware of your coordinates.