It used to be a time when if say, I had a weekend course in certain parts of the country, my family could follow suit and enjoy their leisure time in the hotel. However, things have changed. Ever since the kids have grown up and the husband has been a certified specialist in Public Health – they have other commitments that demand their time. Similarly, some matters beg my attention too. Therefore, I have to accustom myself to the idea that I would have to attend certain courses, or even family events on my side, alone.
Despite being a fearless person, there is still an ounce of anxiety whenever I have to go to new places alone. It is crucial to me that whatever I get myself into – I should return from it safe and sound. Hence, some form of planning is important to ensure that all contingency measures are in place to enhance that.
- fill up the fuel tank to the maximum to avoid making stops at the petrol station unnecessarily. It is common to see how ladies are robbed during moments when they are focused into filling up the car fuel tank
- top up my touch and Go. Not all highways accept debit cards for now. But most shopping malls use T&Go, so there is no harm in depositing some money in there
- pump the tyres – I would be so panicked if something happened to me on the road
- identify Safe Stops at the destination area and the roads that go towards it. On the highway, we know the PLUS Patrol is available but once you enter a new city, it is good to find out where are the nearest masjid, gated residence, shopping mall, any public building or better, police station is in case you need to make a run. Gated residence being my choice as well since they have security guards.
- do not wear heels
- wear pants
- have a water bottle on standby
- carry light and always the key in your hand – for faster access inside the hotel room or homestay
- stay calm and collected – I had a spider in my car the other day, I was able to NOT SCREAM and be frantic. I did pray that it’ll go away quick.
- inform a family member of your whereabouts and turn on ‘device location’ intermittently to allow tracking of some sort. announce it to only trusted people of course.
- meaning do not share LIVE updates on social media. Which is why my activities are usually up the following week or once I have returned from a place a few hours later. Digital predators are everywhere and they come in all types and harmful intentions. They are either interested in your money, your body or your life in general. The scammers, the se-xers and the imposters.
I am sure there are various other measures one can look into.
Minci Moss 