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Most of us don’t think twice about getting into a taxi after a fun night downtown in A-town. We think we are being good and staying safe — we aren’t getting behind the wheel, and we aren’t taking a risky walk. Generally this is a safe bet, and you will end up safe and warm in your bed at home.
But taking what appeared to be a “safe ride” has had devastating consequences for University women during recent weeks. According to The Red & Black, a man in a white passenger van has been attacking, or attempting to attack, women after luring them into his van with offers of rides home from downtown Athens.
As a college-aged woman, this news completely is disturbing. Although my girlfriends and I always try and keep track of one another, I have friends who have taken cabs home by themselves on multiple occasions and usually think nothing of it. It is upsetting that what should be considered a fail-safe means of transportation suddenly could have terrifying consequences.
This obviously is an issue for ALL women, not just sorority women, but my plea to anyone who happens to stumble across this site is to step it up a notch when it comes to the safety of yourself and your friends.
To the wonderful new members who recently have joined sororities all over Milledge, the season of socials and datenights is in full swing. Wednesday and Thursday night gatherings are a fantastic way to become closer with your sisters and meet a plethora of boys. But don’t let yourself get caught up in the mayhem of costumes and forget to watch out for your new best friends.
To those of you, like me, who are social and datenight veterans, you’ve seen it all and heard it all when it comes to crazy stories from nights like these. Don’t let yourself become too accustomed to everything and let your roommate/pledge sister/big sis run off alone, even if she’s done it all before and always ends up “fine.” Now, like always, is not the time to let her take off and hope everything works out.
To our fratty male counterparts, we know you all aren’t scary like this crazy cab-driving creeper. Do you part and look after your female friends. Even if we whine and complain like we love to do, we promise to forgive you in the morning when we wake up safe.
Clearly I’m not the first person to emphasize the importance of women’s safety, using “the buddy system” and watching out for your friends. But now more than ever is the time to make sure no one else falls victim to this terrible situation, as the dangers of the real world have penetrated the Athens bubble we call home.
For those of you who can’t help but keep up with the latest trends, Pepperface.com offers the latest in women’s safety technology. Buy the women in your life pepper spray with a twist– it’s unique, matches any outfit and potentially can save a life!
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While you can spend $35.00 for a fancy, jeweled pepper spray, keep in mind that the ‘old-fashioned’ leather-like case is part of the safety aspect of pepper spray. The case is universally recognizable; would-be criminals see it and know what it is and will typically leave you alone! The price is about $13.00, more suitable for a college student’s budget. Either option is good, just as long as you make sure it is pure pepper spray (OC)…No tear gas (CS or CN). Take a few minutes to educate yourself about what you are entrusting your life with…
Great article about being aware of your surroundings and watch friends as well. Taxis can be scary, we’ve all been in that one with the drunk driver who’s ten sheets to the wind.
Don’t forget that Watchdawgs can provide a FREE, safe ride home. 706-369-6601. Yes, that’s right..FREE FREE FREE.
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