Lessons Learned From Missing Woman, Leah Walsh

Leah Walsh, a 29-year-old special education teacher from Long Island, NY, has been missing since Monday morning. Her abandoned car was found on the side of the road and appeared to have a flat tire. This is still considered a missing person investigation, however, it was reported by the Associated Press around noon today that an unidentified woman’s body was found approximately 13 miles from Walsh’s abandoned car. It has not yet been confirmed as of now whether the body was that of Walsh.

The cases of missing women have become much too common a scenario lately, and we cannot be too careful when we are out and about. The story of Leah Walsh should stand as a reminder to women everywhere that we must learn ways to protect ourselves and stay safe.

Here are some tips to protect yourself when you are alone at night, or even during daylight hours:

1. Always be aware. Know your surroundings and who is around the area. If you are walking along, do not talk on your phone or text your friends. Your lack of attention makes you an easy target for anyone wishing to harm you.

2. Carry pepper spray or mace and attach it to your keychain. When you are walking alone, always have it out and ready to spray. (And keep your keys out as well!) No, you will not accidentally spray yourself with it.

3. When going out to the bars or clubs do not carry huge, oversized purses (especially if living in a big city). These are perfect targets for muggers: they think that because the bag is bigger there is more cool and expensive stuff to steal.

4. Do not ever give up! Fight, scream, or run away. Someone might hear you, or you may even be able to break away from your attacker.

5. Plan ahead. Always keep a blanket, warm clothes, boots and a flashlight in your car for emergencies. If your car breaks down/you get a flat tire, stay in the car and keep your doors locked at all times. Call for help. If your cell phone isn’t working, do not stay in the car; walk to a safe and well-lit area. Staying in your car makes you an easy target.

Ladies, the pattern you will notice here is that most of these tips are common sense. If you use your common sense and be smart, you will be much safer while still living your life.