In the wake of a recent incident of forced submission involving a app based cab service and many thereafter across the globe, we decided to garner some real-world guidelines to help you not only prevent but also instantly decode the basic fiber of such environment, whether you are in your hometown for a commute or travelling for work or leisure these basic yet vital to-do’s will keep you secure and confident as a commuter.
These guidelines/tips will not change the intent of the immoral mind but will certainly prevent you from being a probable victim or help others who might be vulnerable.
Look aware and not lost.
Whether you are in your hometown or travelling elsewhere always know the destination by name. There are many apps which give you a layout of the area you are going to (Google Maps for example). Use this information as a reference, in your conversation/negotiation with the driver or provider. This gives the listener a feeling that you know your way around town hence preventing a slip of thought on the provider’s end, if any.
Be on phone with a friend of family member.
A seemingly trivial but a important aspect. Whether travelling short distances or long hauls, make sure you call your friends/family, after you settle down in the cab and be certain to be audible to the cabbie. Don’t make it obvious that you are calling to inform them of the route (This sometimes translates to giving away your fear to the opposite person), instead strike a general conversation and make the on-route information seem routine and not specific.
This keeps the driver in check and subdues any untoward thought which may or may not occur.
Late Night Commute.
If you are alone and travelling late night ( 11 PM Onwards) by your private car or a cab, be aware of the area you are commuting to. If you are unaware about the endpoint inform your friend/family that you are not aware of the destination. Also share the registration number and the provider’s name.
There are certain landmarked areas which can be avoided unless it is absolutely necessary to be there. Inbox us at contact@ecohunters.in for a list.
No small talks with the driver.
Avoid having any casual conversations or small talks with the driver (Unless you know him personally). Quite often private cab drivers strike a conversation by asking questions about your work, timings etc and how often you commute by private cabs, we often indulge as we are social by nature, but remember what may seem like a casual conversation to you might be his probe! Subtly evade any such conversation as it gives away unwanted but good to know information about your awareness levels and commuting habits.
Safety Tools.
Please make this a part of your make up kit/handbag. These tools have become essential to carry especially when commuting alone or at night.
Always carry a Pepper Spray, Mace Spray, Stun Gun (Available on various women safety e-commerce portals). This might sound impractical or overtly cautious to some of us, but these will come to your rescue at the time of need. These are not very expensive products and when it’s the question of your safety it becomes absolutely essential to have these items.
Mobile safety apps.
For those of us who are technology savvy, download some women safety applications. Remember it is necessary for your phone to be internet capable on the commute if you were to use these apps. These apps can help by sending signals to nearby Police Station or send an alert message to your family in case you land in a unwanted situation.
For a comprehensive list of apps which suit you visit http://bit.ly/1GlUQAN
Remember safety comes first. If it means you risk sounding unsocial or rude in certain situations, its worth the act!
Though what we have covered here might not be enough given the vast demographics and geographies in play, these tips will surely prepare you to be more self-aware and aware of your surroundings.
Practice today so it’s a habit tomorrow. If you have any best practice’s to add to a, safe commute, please write to us or leave your comments.
Safety First folks…!
EcoHunters Blog 
Safety first folks!
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