For the Love of Safety and Oneself

(The column previously appeared on Feb. 22, 2023 in The Birmingham Times)   As we consider self-care, which is the personification of love, it is important for women to remember   old saying “To Thine Own Self Be True.” When traveling by air, the flight attendant provides safety flight instructions to passengers minutes before take-off. The flight attendant lets everyone know that if the cabin loses air pressure, oxygen masks will drop down from overhead. The safety instructions further emphasize the importance for passengers to first place the oxygen mask over their face before assisting anyone else. An illustration of self-love and self-care. Self-love and self-care are essential So, let’s review some common-sense safety tips for women. Buddy up and always be prepared It is best not to walk alone. When you are out, especially in the dark, it is safer to have someone else walk with you. If you must walk alone, try to stay in well-lit, public areas or carry a pocket-sized, high powered LED flashlight. You should carry a self-defense tool such as a whistle, taser, or pepper spray with you. Keep it ready and not tucked away in your purse. Avoid being too flashy Never be flashy with...