Calguns.net  

Home My iTrader Join the NRA Donate to CGSSA Sponsors CGN Google Search
CA Semiauto Ban(AW)ID Flowchart CA Handgun Ban ID Flowchart CA Shotgun Ban ID Flowchart
Go Back   Calguns.net > SPECIALTY FORUMS > Ladies Forum
Register FAQ Members List Calendar Mark Forums Read

Ladies Forum A place for our female Calgunners to discuss, share and interact without the 'excess attention' sometimes found in online forums.

Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 10-12-2012, 11:14 AM
BonnieB's Avatar
BonnieB BonnieB is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Sacramento
Posts: 1,969
iTrader: 4 / 100%
Default Assaults on women in parking lots

I watched a documentary about Walmart last night and got really jumpy. Now, don't get excited, this is not a Walmart-bash. It's a parking lot bash.

I made this separate thread because I think it's slightly different from the wonderful Mrs Kitty carjacking thread.

There was a whole segment on how people are carjacked, kidnapped, assaulted, you name it. And that's after the victim has spent her money inside. Apparently, they mostly try to grab you when you're loading your car and getting back in.

The documentary made points about parking your car pretty far away from the door, so that no one can sneak up on you. Parking close to other cars seems to be the greatest risk. So, if I deliberated parked far away from the door, and came out to see two cars parked right next to mine, I call security right? Too soon for 911 because there's no threat?

Before anyone asks, I've applied for a CCW, but don't have the license yet.

Apparently, stores mainly use the parking lot cameras to detect union activities out there, if they monitor the cameras at all. At worst, they are used to identify the BG's who raped and killed you.

I go to Walmart (again, not bashing them in particular), for ammo about once a month. I don't like to shop there for much else. I only go there in broad daylight, park in a separate but not lonely area, never with guns in the car, and am highly cautious. What better victim than a middle aged, middle class lady with lots of ammo which probably means a decent car and a gun or two.

It's making me jumpy enough that I want to bring a friend with me the next time I go, to stand by the door, see me safely into my car, and then I'll go pick her/him up. It's also making me jumpy enough to pay the extra buck or two per box and buy ammo at my local gun dealer or range.

What do you all think? These parking lots seem to be "boutique shops" for carjackers seeking a victim. What else can we do to keep safe in these idiot parking lots?
__________________
WHAT I HAVE LEARNED SO FAR, MOSTLY THE HARD WAY
• Do only safe sex. Never have sex with someone crazier than you are.
• Don't marry or move in together before you're both at least 25.
• Don't have children until you're married five years or at least age 30.
• Put 10% of your salary into savings every month no matter how broke you are.
• Don't ever screw around with the IRS.
• Keep a handgun on your bedside table.
• Don't smart-mouth judges, or cops who stop you on the road.
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 10-12-2012, 11:29 AM
Steyrlp10's Avatar
Steyrlp10 Steyrlp10 is offline
C3 Leader
CGN Contributor - Lifetime
 
Join Date: Nov 2008
Location: Valley Joe
Posts: 5,340
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Bonnie, you're not being paranoid. I'm chiming in because I think along a similar path.

In this case, it's my local Safeway. There have been a number of purse-snatchings/knockdowns of women in broad daylight there. In one case, it was a few minutes before I stepped out of the car with my teenaged son. Some poor lady with her 2 daughters had just exited the store when a "kid" ran by her, grabbed her purse, and knocked her down. I was approximately 25 yards from her because I park in the next country to make sure I can see everything around me (not admitting that other drivers would suffer if I had to back out of a space, mind you - lol)

This was a Sunday and from their clothing, it looked like they had just come from church. All I could do was call the cops and give them a brief description of the kid who ran down the hill to what I believe was an awaiting car (freeway entrances there) and try to give her some comfort. I felt bad for the daughters -- freaked out and crying, poor kids. They looked to be about 8 and 5 maybe. The mom didn't want medical, just her husband. Her phone was in her purse, so I gave her mine to call her husband.

We waited together until the husband drove up. What a mess! Not sure how much the Safeway cameras were able to pick up, but you're right -- it's for after the fact
__________________


If you live in Solano County, please join us at:
http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/group.php?groupid=12


NRA Certified Pistol Instructor
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 10-12-2012, 5:41 PM
savannah's Avatar
savannah savannah is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Northern CA
Posts: 1,142
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

It is a sign of the times and I think a wakeup call about carrying a purse. It may be time to leave the purse and carry your ATM card or credit card in your pocket. Even with a CCW if someone is purse snatching, you do not have the cause to shoot the jerk. Now if you feel threatened, that's another story. Generally, purse snatchers are cowards that pick on the vulnerable. Parking lots, at night are just not safe for most women who are alone unless you have the self defense techniques you need to defend yourself.
__________________




I don't expect everything handed to me. Just set it down anywhere. Unknown
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 10-12-2012, 8:32 PM
Bugguts's Avatar
Bugguts Bugguts is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Posts: 1,286
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

I am pretty aware of what is going on around me in parking lots but even I have been caught off guard in Target parking lot before. As is my habit, when I get in my car, the first thing I do is lock my doors. I've done this since I started driving 25+ yrs ago. Well one day I get in my car, lock my doors and look over my right shoulder to back out and as I start to back out someone slammed on my driver window. Startled the Hell out of me! I stopped and turned to look and there was a black guy glaring at me and motioning for me to roll down my window. I cracked it about an inch and he yelled at me "You locked your doors!!!" Ummm yeah? And he yells "It's because I'm black isn't it??" And starts slamming on my door. I laid on the horn and dialed 911 on my phone. It had nothing to do with him being black. He could have been purple, green, white or red and I still would have locked my door. He ran off and once I calmed down I talked to the police and drove home. This was before I was carrying but it startled me enough that it got me thinking. I am just glad my kids weren't with me. I don't want my kids to witness me being a victim ever and unfortunately it is just getting worse no matter where you are. I was relieved when Riley told me he did not want to trick or treat this year because it just isn't safe. He's going to help our neighbor with his haunted house. The little girl killed in CO this week just puts a point on it.
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 10-12-2012, 9:00 PM
Steyrlp10's Avatar
Steyrlp10 Steyrlp10 is offline
C3 Leader
CGN Contributor - Lifetime
 
Join Date: Nov 2008
Location: Valley Joe
Posts: 5,340
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Bug, glad it turned out ok for you. I didn't have a guy hit my window, but I don't like people coming up from behind me when I'm loading the groceries either. Just not cool, you know?

In my case, this was when I had my Lab with me. She's the daughter of our K9 and like most family dogs, very protective of her humans. She was laying on her stomach in the back of my Suburban. I was slightly turned when she jumped up, snarling at this guy she saw approach me from my left. All you could see is spit flying and fangs from my baby girl.

He ran off screaming and cursing at both of us. The world is just full of bad opportunists who think we're easy prey...
__________________


If you live in Solano County, please join us at:
http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/group.php?groupid=12


NRA Certified Pistol Instructor
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 10-12-2012, 9:01 PM
kel-tec-innovations's Avatar
kel-tec-innovations kel-tec-innovations is offline
Veteran Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: Rancho Cucamonga, California
Posts: 3,932
iTrader: 134 / 100%
Default

Watch your surroundings. When I enter a walmart I pay attention to loiters and people that seem to be out of place. Warm night with jackets or sweaters or roaming around, leaning on walls near front entrance casing people.

Once those are established you know who to potentially keep an eye on.

People asking for change or anything say no and keep walking. I dont allow them to close the distance. They want to read your body language, what your carrying, and if you take your wallet out its a chance of snatching or worse when your distracted and looking down they attack. A local person in my area got his car stolen when picking up his kid at school. A man approached him while he was waiting in his car picking up his son. Man ask what time it was, guy looks down at watch, looks up gun in his face. So don't get distracted.

Have a pepper spray or taser in pocket ready to go. If it makes you more comfortable have it in your hands. Since you parked further your at a good start to be able to see if someone is following you. When loading your car and someone approaches, ask what they want before they get too close. Usually you can tell, depending how good you are at reading people on their intentions. Tone of voice, body language etc.

If you act scared they know your scared and prey on you. When your confident well aware of your surrounding they know your not an easy target and wait for someone easier Stay alert.

May have grammar/spelling error. Typing on phone
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 10-12-2012, 9:08 PM
vision1214's Avatar
vision1214 vision1214 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jul 2012
Posts: 109
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

I stopped carrying a purse a long time ago. I put my DL, concealed license, credit cards, money and medical cards in my pocket......and my gun on my side. When I am loading my groceries, I have my back to the car and face the parking lot...putting one bag in a time and stop after each bag to look around. If anyone is watching, they know I am aware of my surroundings. The best defense, is a good offense....Forever known as D&O. Take nothing for granted even if you are in the best part of town

To Bonnie, if something doesn't feel right, ask for a security guard to escort you out to your car and wait for you to get inside and locked in the car! D&O
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 10-12-2012, 9:22 PM
Bugguts's Avatar
Bugguts Bugguts is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Posts: 1,286
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

I've actually thought about giving up my purse and just getting a thin wallet. Medical card, license, CCW, base ID and ATM card. I seem to notice my purse getting in the way more and more and I hook my keys to my belt and my phone in my pocket so it is really not necessary.
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 10-12-2012, 9:29 PM
savannah's Avatar
savannah savannah is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Northern CA
Posts: 1,142
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by vision1214 View Post
I stopped carrying a purse a long time ago. I put my DL, concealed license, credit cards, money and medical cards in my pocket......and my gun on my side. When I am loading my groceries, I have my back to the car and face the parking lot...putting one bag in a time and stop after each bag to look around. If anyone is watching, they know I am aware of my surroundings. The best defense, is a good offense....Forever known as D&O. Take nothing for granted even if you are in the best part of town

To Bonnie, if something doesn't feel right, ask for a security guard to escort you out to your car and wait for you to get inside and locked in the car! D&O
I can't sayi go to this extremes by any means, but I am very aware of my surroundings. I would find loading groceries with my back to the car difficult.

Being overly worried day to day, for me, would be exhausting. That being said, I don't shop at nights alone and I won't go into a mall parking lot alone at night.

Being aware is very smart and I work much harder these days at doing just that.
__________________




I don't expect everything handed to me. Just set it down anywhere. Unknown
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 10-12-2012, 9:32 PM
kel-tec-innovations's Avatar
kel-tec-innovations kel-tec-innovations is offline
Veteran Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: Rancho Cucamonga, California
Posts: 3,932
iTrader: 134 / 100%
Default

Stores like Lowes and home depot helps load your purchases, I wonder if walmart offers this service.
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 10-12-2012, 9:37 PM
Bugguts's Avatar
Bugguts Bugguts is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Posts: 1,286
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

I know Raleys has bag boys/girls who always offer to help me out but not Target and never Home Depot. I get accosted by Mexicans every time I go there. If I am bringing out paint supplies, wood, flooring, gardening supplies etc, I always get them approaching me and asking if I need labor. I stopped going there now and when we are dong projects I make my husband go.
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 10-12-2012, 9:49 PM
kaligaran's Avatar
kaligaran kaligaran is offline
Veteran Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: Lone Star State
Posts: 4,800
iTrader: 6 / 100%
Default

I posted this on another thread in here a month or two ago but it seemed appropriate in this thread too..

Sorry for the dup if any of you saw my last post:

I am of the opinion that many bad guys/oportunistic criminals will see a small woman as a vulnerable target due to size and strength so I do try to always be aware and able to not only avoid situations where something bad could happen but also to be able to properly defend myself should the need arise.

Back in 1998 I took a unisex self defense class taught by a SWAT team instructor for the city. A few things he harped on which I will never forget and have made a conscious effort to practice daily.

Most people are oblivious to their surroundings. When walking out of a grocery store or work or wherever watch people as they go and most likely you'll catch yourself making some of these same mistakes: Most are on the phone, looking down, fumbling for their keys, etc. Not really paying attention to the world around them.
Always make sweeping glances around and if you see someone, make brief eye contact. The instructor had told us that most potential attackers look for the oblivious victim to get the drop on them and by just making brief eye contact, it can dissuade a potential attacker because now you can identify them. I have never verified the validity of this claim but to me it makes sense. If you do any people watching, you really see that most people seem to be completely unaware.

Another thing I do is ALWAYS walk away from cars in parking lots and corners of walls, buildings, etc. My partner thinks it's fun to try to hide and jump out and scare me which he does on a regular basis for some reason. However, I know it's frustrating b/c 99.29% of the time he's spotted and the tactic fails. It doesn't make me jumpy at all and I don't mind b/c I feel that it's a good training exercise. If I'm ever caught off guard, that was a fail on my part.
__________________
WTB: multiautomatic ghost gun with a .30-caliber clip to disperse with 30 bullets within half a second. Must include shoulder thing that goes up. Memberships/Affiliations: CERT, ARRL ARES, NRA Patron Member, HRC, CGN/CGSSA, Cal-FFL
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 10-13-2012, 9:03 PM
vision1214's Avatar
vision1214 vision1214 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jul 2012
Posts: 109
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Wink

Quote:
Originally Posted by savannah View Post
I can't sayi go to this extremes by any means, but I am very aware of my surroundings. I would find loading groceries with my back to the car difficult.

Being overly worried day to day, for me, would be exhausting. That being said, I don't shop at nights alone and I won't go into a mall parking lot alone at night.

Being aware is very smart and I work much harder these days at doing just that.
It is not that hard at all. I have an SUV - I open the back hatch, pull the cart up and sit down, putting one bag in at a time. I have to use a cane because of nerve damage in both legs and arms. I am a sitting duck to most attackers. Woman with a cane - easy pickins. Nope, I am aware, I do things differently because of that cane to let them know, I am watching. It will be their mistake to take me for granted because of that cane. I go to a lot of "extremes" at times but so far, I have made it home safe and sound without having to pull a gun. It is a D&O sort of thing.
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 10-13-2012, 9:22 PM
9mmepiphany's Avatar
9mmepiphany 9mmepiphany is offline
Calguns Addict
 
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: River City
Posts: 8,076
iTrader: 1 / 100%
Default

BonnieB, I'm going to try to make it out to the Sacto shoot, at SacValley, at the end of the month.

If you remind me, I'll show you some easy steps you can take to increase your comfort zone...it is easier to demonstrate than describe
__________________
...because the journey is the worthier part...The Shepherd's Tale
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 10-13-2012, 10:18 PM
oddjob oddjob is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: Lodi, California
Posts: 2,358
iTrader: 34 / 100%
Default

Its not just women. In Stockton there are robberies every day. One of the Stockton Officers told me they average about 5-10 armed robberies every day. I'm sure more than a few are in parking lots.

One of the more popular methods is the suspects ask the victim what time it is. When the victim looks at their watch they get sucker punched. Some take the cell phone and throw it away to give them more time to get away.

Lots of good ideas here....Pepper spray is not too bad to carry.

If you go shopping try to go with others....groups are always a deterrent. As others have stated ask for an escort from the store.

Better yet state you have an injury to your arms, wrists, shoulders or whatever and need assistance placing the items in your car. That will get a faster response than a "security" escort.
Reply With Quote
  #16  
Old 10-14-2012, 3:09 AM
kimber_ss's Avatar
kimber_ss kimber_ss is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,184
iTrader: 1 / 100%
Default

Stay alert when leaving Wal-mart. And wherever it is you are. Just left a Wal-mart in the evening a few months ago with my purchases and heading for my car. Heard a woman yelling at another and next thing I see is a SUV screaming around the corners of the parking lot and heading right at me.

I pushed my basket out of the way and ran. Others had already dialed 911 and apparently there was a squabble over a cell phone. The driver kept going around in circles for about 5 minutes then got out and started yelling at another shopper who punched her.

Then she got back in her SUV and sped off, but her license # had already been reported. I didn't consider any defense other than running and in retrospect that would have been my defense every time in that kind of situation.
__________________
Reply With Quote
  #17  
Old 10-14-2012, 8:14 AM
Rusty Scabbard Rusty Scabbard is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: So. Cal
Posts: 590
iTrader: 18 / 100%
Default

A lot of studios offer classes. Santa Barbara Krav Maga has a free one day women's self defense seminar next weekend. Oct 20 at 12:30
Reply With Quote
  #18  
Old 10-14-2012, 10:06 PM
tlcwrites's Avatar
tlcwrites tlcwrites is offline
Member
 
Join Date: May 2012
Location: Santa Barbara County
Posts: 132
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

A rule of thumb I picked up someplace (might have been one of Gavin de Becker's books, but I'm not sure) is to be especially careful and aware when you're in a place where it would take you more than 30 seconds to reach a place where there is a crowd, or where it would take help more than 30 seconds to reach you.

Parking in a well-lit area is a good thing if you can, especially at night, but I'd rather park close to other people and carry my Surefire flashlight in my hand than park farther away to be near light.

One other suggestion: It turns out that dropping what we're carrying in order to face a threat can be challenging because of our conditioning. I've actually practiced this - I'll hold a book, grocery bags, purse, coffee cup, etc. in my hand and, on a cue from a friend, I'll see how quickly I can drop what I'm holding and come into a "ready" stance.

Tammy
__________________
Tammy (in Santa Barbara County)
Blog: www.momwithagun.com

"Courage is the price that life exacts for granting peace." ~ Amelia Earhart

"Experience is what allows you to recognize a mistake the second time you make it." ~ Unknown
Reply With Quote
  #19  
Old 10-15-2012, 9:29 AM
powaybob's Avatar
powaybob powaybob is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: north Poway (near San Diego)
Posts: 435
iTrader: 1 / 100%
Default

Y'all have got me concerned and I'm 6'3" and 300 lbs! You have given me reasons not to do the grocery shopping.
Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 10-15-2012, 9:36 AM
Lifeon2whls's Avatar
Lifeon2whls Lifeon2whls is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: Texas
Posts: 1,751
iTrader: 12 / 100%
Default

I posted this in another thread (can't find it) but seem absolutely relevant to rehash for this one.

When my mother was in her early to mid 50's she was attacked twice in parking lots. Once three BG's came up to her car and tried to get her purse, etc as she was coming back from the market (this is at night). She would always bring our dog with her, so she opened the car door and our dog got out and made sure two of the men ended up in the hospital. The third ran and, yes they were armed.

The second time she was actually in her car, parked with the windows open. She was looking down going through her purse for something when a guy reached in and tried grabbing her. Again, our dog was in the car and came over the front seat and made sure that man saw the inside of an ER.

I know its not always practical, but when possible, get a large dog and take him/her with you when ever possible. They are an AMAZING deterrent and with very little training will protect you and your family. Incidents like these are NOT limited to women and have happened to many men I know...hence why I take my dogs with me when I can because I am concerned about the same thing and it works wonders around people who get my spidy senses going.

The dog mentioned above was a very sweet lab who loved my mother dearly...and as proved, would do anything for her.
Reply With Quote
  #21  
Old 10-15-2012, 7:38 PM
minichnk's Avatar
minichnk minichnk is offline
CGSSA Associate
 
Join Date: Aug 2011
Location: Costa Mesa
Posts: 80
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

In todays busy world its hard to keep your nose out of our smart phones. I have been really trying my hardest to wait to be in a secure place before checking and replying to emails and text, or making phone calls like when I get into my car and have locked the doors.

Locally there has been a few instances where purses and wallets have been snatched inside a grocery store from the victims cart while they are shopping. Its hard to pick out a watermelon while holding on to your purse. So I have started to use the child safety belt in the cart to lock up my purse. That way if someone is trying to run away with my purse they are going to at least have to work a bit for it.

The best defense is to be aware.
Reply With Quote
  #22  
Old 10-15-2012, 10:00 PM
BonnieB's Avatar
BonnieB BonnieB is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Sacramento
Posts: 1,969
iTrader: 4 / 100%
Default

Never never put your handbag in the child seat of a shopping cart. Your wallet can disappear and you'll never notice til you try to check out.
__________________
WHAT I HAVE LEARNED SO FAR, MOSTLY THE HARD WAY
• Do only safe sex. Never have sex with someone crazier than you are.
• Don't marry or move in together before you're both at least 25.
• Don't have children until you're married five years or at least age 30.
• Put 10% of your salary into savings every month no matter how broke you are.
• Don't ever screw around with the IRS.
• Keep a handgun on your bedside table.
• Don't smart-mouth judges, or cops who stop you on the road.
Reply With Quote
  #23  
Old 10-15-2012, 10:37 PM
Glock Girl in CA's Avatar
Glock Girl in CA Glock Girl in CA is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: Moved to a free state
Posts: 336
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Cross-body bags are best to prevent theft, though to be honest, I've heard thieves can and do cut the strap and run with the purse. I always have a cross-body bag (Fossil, two-tone supple leather and deliriously cute) and would never go back. Also keeps my hands free to hold more important things - like little hands.

I always scan parking lots as well, and I make sure the first thing I do is get my sweet cherubs in the van and shut them in while they buckle up. If there's no cart corral VERY close to me, I leave the cart out of the way nearby. I won't chance leaving those kids for one second. Sometimes women forget that children make one infinitely more vulnerable - threaten my child and I will cooperate instinctively. Bad guys know this. I remember hearing of a murderer who used to frequent parking lots of malls, targeting mothers with young kids, laden with shopping bags. He preferred mothers with SUVs and tinted windows, which suited his purposes. He knew menacing their babies = instant cooperation from Mom. Once inside, he'd zip-tie the mom's neck to the head rest and she was effectively incapacitated.

These people are seriously evil. We cannot let our guards down...
Reply With Quote
  #24  
Old 10-15-2012, 11:46 PM
SilverTauron SilverTauron is offline
Calguns Addict
 
Join Date: Jan 2012
Posts: 5,699
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

As the recent victim of a carjacking attempt at a parking lot, ill just state that the most valuable defensive tool is situational awareness.You have to pay attention to your surroundings! If you see something that looks shady don't write it off as paranoia, and if you feel threatened don't hesitate for a moment to reach for the phone/knife/spray/gun/baton/cane if need be.

In order to get sued or arrested you have to be alive, and at the moment of trouble staying out of jail is secondary to staying out of the morgue. Bad guys aren't interested in a gun battle or close range knifefight, and as such once they see you aren't an easy mark they'll probably scram. You might be the hottest woman on the face of the Earth driving a $500,000 Bentley, but even the dumbest scumbag knows that stuff isn't worth potentially dying over. Not when there's literally thousands of other marks who won't fight back.
__________________
The more prohibitions you have, the less virtuous people will be.
The more subsidies you have, the less self reliant people will be.
-Lao-Tzu, Tau Te Ching. 479 BCE

The 1911 may have been in wars for 100 years, but Masetro Bartolomeo Beretta was arming the world 400 years before John Browning was ever a wet dream.
Reply With Quote
  #25  
Old 10-16-2012, 5:08 PM
kotetu's Avatar
kotetu kotetu is offline
Veteran Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2011
Location: Houston, TX
Posts: 3,125
iTrader: 9 / 100%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by BonnieB View Post
I watched a documentary about Walmart last night and got really jumpy. Now, don't get excited, this is not a Walmart-bash. It's a parking lot bash.

I made this separate thread because I think it's slightly different from the wonderful Mrs Kitty carjacking thread.

There was a whole segment on how people are carjacked, kidnapped, assaulted, you name it. And that's after the victim has spent her money inside. Apparently, they mostly try to grab you when you're loading your car and getting back in.

The documentary made points about parking your car pretty far away from the door, so that no one can sneak up on you. Parking close to other cars seems to be the greatest risk. So, if I deliberated parked far away from the door, and came out to see two cars parked right next to mine, I call security right? Too soon for 911 because there's no threat?

Before anyone asks, I've applied for a CCW, but don't have the license yet.

Apparently, stores mainly use the parking lot cameras to detect union activities out there, if they monitor the cameras at all. At worst, they are used to identify the BG's who raped and killed you.

I go to Walmart (again, not bashing them in particular), for ammo about once a month. I don't like to shop there for much else. I only go there in broad daylight, park in a separate but not lonely area, never with guns in the car, and am highly cautious. What better victim than a middle aged, middle class lady with lots of ammo which probably means a decent car and a gun or two.

It's making me jumpy enough that I want to bring a friend with me the next time I go, to stand by the door, see me safely into my car, and then I'll go pick her/him up. It's also making me jumpy enough to pay the extra buck or two per box and buy ammo at my local gun dealer or range.

What do you all think? These parking lots seem to be "boutique shops" for carjackers seeking a victim. What else can we do to keep safe in these idiot parking lots?
Park close to the entrance, near help if it is needed. At night park under a bright lamp and if possible in view of security cameras, where criminals can be seen. Finally, if you're alone, ask the cashier for help out to your car.
__________________

Quote:
Originally Posted by NRA spends more money in CA than it takes in from here. Please stop spreading misinformation.
-
sbrady@Michel&Associates
Read the full post about NRA activities in CA here.
Reply With Quote
  #26  
Old 11-12-2012, 7:35 PM
Fate's Avatar
Fate Fate is offline
Calguns Addict
 
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: Proud Member of the Quitter Club. Moscow, ID
Posts: 9,541
iTrader: 39 / 100%
Default

About a year ago I went to Walmart with my family one Saturday afternoon. My wife and gorgeous, thin, teenage daughter with long blonde hair headed to the car with the cart a couple minutes ahead of me. We had parked a long ways out.

Several spaces from our car was a white pickup with 3 guys hanging out nearby. No other vehicles in the area. When the men noticed my wife and daughter approach, they first gave them the up and down once over and then quickly started moving. First they went to the other side of the truck and were talking while looking at the women. Then two circled opposite sides of the truck and started approaching with smiles and were starting to say something to engage the women. Wife and daughter clued in on the weird vibe and got into the car, leaving their stuff in the cart.

As this was happening, I had been quickly catching up and watching the guys' actions with every step I took. When the guys saw me quickly approaching and eyeballing them like a pissed off grizzly, they stopped in their tracks and quickly loaded their vehicle and drove off. Not entirely sure what their motives were, but both my wife and daughter were creeped out by the whole thing.

Needless to say, my wife and daughter don't head out ahead anymore and my wife tries to park a little closer now when she's on her own.
__________________
"On bended knee is no way to be free." - Eddie Vedder, "Guaranteed"

"Let your gun therefore be the constant companion of your walks." -Thomas Jefferson
, in a letter to his nephew Peter Carr dated August 19, 1785
Reply With Quote
  #27  
Old 11-15-2012, 4:26 PM
onequickshift's Avatar
onequickshift onequickshift is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2009
Location: Texas
Posts: 466
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

BB: When at stores, I usually park close to the store front entrance. There are lots of people moving in and out of the store, and someone grabbing you or harassing you is readily visible to all. I rarely park far far away, unless I am with someone else, but when I do this and have choice of parking I wall line. I also reverse park against them, or what kids I guess call suicide parking. At all times when I am out and about, I have personal space, if someones approaching me to ask me a Q I say no thankyou loudly and clearly, if they persist I simply run off and away from them. If they are sob story about needing bus fair, or to use my phone, or what time is it, or for change. After I have told them to stop/stay away from me, I yet again sprint off. I don't wear heels, nor clothing that leaves me immobile. If someones asking me for a jump, or if I know where a certain place is, I politely tell them no I can't help them, again loud and clear.

IF anyone persist and pushes further into my private space, I always choose to retreat. If someone makes the effort to park RIGHT next to me, as well on my DRIVER side? I ask security, a bag boy, or etc to simply walk with me to my car, and or I enter passenger side. There is always ways to set yourself up, so you have a solid to your back, and can keep a view of your surroundings.

As for the purse thing, I rarely use them lately, I usually use a modified Patagonia pack, with added on back spacing, restitched straps, and hidden back pouch for blunt tools.

Or a Kifaru E&E bag, Hazard4 Kato bag, webbingless and customized Maxpedition Remora. Tactical Tailor Urban Operator. But my main daily bag is a Camelbak Linchpin, no annoying webbing outside that scream tacticool. No camo pattern to scream GUN!!! No weird morale patches of zombies or etc.

Depends on where I am going, what I am doing, and things change, when I am running erranges I also use a Hillppl Chest Rig, can carry a second fire arm inside, as well magazines, light, etc. Thats what I've been doing lately when running. Works great. Working with a company right now for a setup aimed at consumer with chest though

Kifaru Koala is also another great little rig.

But back to topic at hand, muggings, assault, etc. I've had first hand experience with stalkers, and such; especially since I used to model a lot when I was younger.

Most young people today, are yabbering on their phones as they walk around in life, day or night, ignorant to their surroundings, or predators that may be around. Honestly, wish the state was a bit more free, much to the degree like TX or CO, was the only reserve I had when we moved back to CA for my work.

Honestly most people don't have nor developed a circle or area of personal space, will willing allow random strangers to approach them, ask them questions, etc.

I may sound over cautious and security minded, but, thats what keeps people a bit more safe.

Predators try to look for people distracted, over loaded on purchases in their cart, not paying attention to their surroundings, etc. They see a woman in heels and automatically see, that woman can not run away in those. Oh shes blabbering when she went into store, and when she went out? She'll make an easy target, shes to distracted.

They do lots of random things to, such as fill your window with A LOT of spam fliers, or ask for change for a $1....ask for a ride. Tell you they lost their phone can they use yours to call it? Can you jump their car its late, and they have no one to call.

I leave fliers and let them fly off when I am driving, I ignore request for change or for rides, if someone lost their phone, I ignore them, if someones honestly locked themselves out of the car, and or dead battery? I will keep them at a distance, and call AAA for them. Or if they "locked their keys in" An officer in a response to a call, would gladly help.

Parking well lit areas, and aware of my vehicles entry points, their position to how ppl may uniquely park a van, or large SUV, and are just sitting in it, though its an empty parking lot. If someone approaches with their hands in their pockets, bee lining to you at speed. Etc.

Having good kit on you for an emergency or just daily is important as well. Nothing is as offsetting to someone as 500Lumens from a Surefire fury to their eyes, getting a chemical mixture that burns like hell. Or for some folks who CCW, the ultimate safety if the wcs occurs? Protecting yourself.

A lot of ppl dont carry much of anything because of weight issues, or not fashionably appealing. I carry a lot of stuff in my bags for myself, my family, day to day, and for emergency use. The weight of my bags and their content? I don't notice anymore. You work safety, training, and the products you use, into your life, from cooking, to the gym, to your phone to an ipod, you work those things into your life.

Everyone can do further more for their PerSec in their daily lives. Hope everyone stays safe!
Reply With Quote
  #28  
Old 11-19-2012, 7:46 AM
Matt159 Matt159 is offline
Junior Member
 
Join Date: May 2012
Location: Los Angeles
Posts: 10
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

I have never get a bad incident at parking, Thank God
Reply With Quote
  #29  
Old 11-19-2012, 8:08 AM
savannah's Avatar
savannah savannah is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Northern CA
Posts: 1,142
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

I park close to the front of the store, closer to the crowds and cameras. I have had people help me and my husband recently jump start his Tundra. We then went and bought a battery and went to the gun range.

I think being aware is responsible and smart. I can't live paranoid. It would make me crazy.
__________________




I don't expect everything handed to me. Just set it down anywhere. Unknown
Reply With Quote
  #30  
Old 11-19-2012, 10:04 AM
billofrights's Avatar
billofrights billofrights is offline
CGN/CGSSA Contributor
CGN Contributor
 
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: SFV
Posts: 2,342
iTrader: 4 / 100%
Default

I've had numerous self-defense instructors tell me that you never scream "rape", "help", or "thief" because people think you're crying wolf, goofing around, or just don't want to be involved; but if you scream "fire" people come look because everyone wants to see a good fire.
Reply With Quote
  #31  
Old 11-19-2012, 11:09 AM
tlcwrites's Avatar
tlcwrites tlcwrites is offline
Member
 
Join Date: May 2012
Location: Santa Barbara County
Posts: 132
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by billofrights View Post
but if you scream "fire" people come look because everyone wants to see a good fire.
I've heard this too. On the other hand, if I'm ever in that situation I think I'd want to both attract attention and create good witnesses, so I'd probably scream something like "drop the knife!" or "don't shoot me!" or whatever instead.

Tammy
__________________
Tammy (in Santa Barbara County)
Blog: www.momwithagun.com

"Courage is the price that life exacts for granting peace." ~ Amelia Earhart

"Experience is what allows you to recognize a mistake the second time you make it." ~ Unknown
Reply With Quote
  #32  
Old 11-21-2012, 6:27 AM
AaronT AaronT is offline
Junior Member
 
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: Goodyear, AZ
Posts: 50
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

I know walmart doesn't do this but alot of stores do. You could ask for help out to your car to load the groceries. I would think having 2 people loading groceries would deter someone looking to carjack/kidnap/assault
Reply With Quote
  #33  
Old 11-21-2012, 6:41 AM
email email is offline
Veteran Member
 
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Arizona and Utah
Posts: 2,503
iTrader: 31 / 100%
Default

Situational awareness.
Reply With Quote
  #34  
Old 11-22-2012, 2:07 PM
C6H6 C6H6 is offline
Junior Member
 
Join Date: Sep 2012
Posts: 14
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Lifeon2whls View Post
I posted this in another thread (can't find it) but seem absolutely relevant to rehash for this one.

When my mother was in her early to mid 50's she was attacked twice in parking lots. Once three BG's came up to her car and tried to get her purse, etc as she was coming back from the market (this is at night). She would always bring our dog with her, so she opened the car door and our dog got out and made sure two of the men ended up in the hospital. The third ran and, yes they were armed.

The second time she was actually in her car, parked with the windows open. She was looking down going through her purse for something when a guy reached in and tried grabbing her. Again, our dog was in the car and came over the front seat and made sure that man saw the inside of an ER.

I know its not always practical, but when possible, get a large dog and take him/her with you when ever possible. They are an AMAZING deterrent and with very little training will protect you and your family. Incidents like these are NOT limited to women and have happened to many men I know...hence why I take my dogs with me when I can because I am concerned about the same thing and it works wonders around people who get my spidy senses going.

The dog mentioned above was a very sweet lab who loved my mother dearly...and as proved, would do anything for her.
Your mother was very lucky. A friend of mine had a Mastiff in the car when a man reached through the window and grabbed her by the throat. Her dog bit down on the man's arm and he let go. Unfortunately for my friend, the man then sued her for the dog bite and he won. I can't believe this world sometimes.
__________________
Test.
Reply With Quote
  #35  
Old 11-27-2012, 10:32 AM
onequickshift's Avatar
onequickshift onequickshift is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2009
Location: Texas
Posts: 466
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by email View Post
Situational awareness.
Yup.
Reply With Quote
  #36  
Old 02-15-2013, 5:37 PM
BonnieB's Avatar
BonnieB BonnieB is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Sacramento
Posts: 1,969
iTrader: 4 / 100%
Default

Updating this thread, which is important for all of us.
__________________
WHAT I HAVE LEARNED SO FAR, MOSTLY THE HARD WAY
• Do only safe sex. Never have sex with someone crazier than you are.
• Don't marry or move in together before you're both at least 25.
• Don't have children until you're married five years or at least age 30.
• Put 10% of your salary into savings every month no matter how broke you are.
• Don't ever screw around with the IRS.
• Keep a handgun on your bedside table.
• Don't smart-mouth judges, or cops who stop you on the road.
Reply With Quote
  #37  
Old 02-16-2013, 9:13 AM
snap-dragon snap-dragon is offline
Junior Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: OC
Posts: 44
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by BonnieB View Post
Updating this thread, which is important for all of us.
Thanks Bonnie, I just read the whole thing and it was a huge eye-opener.

I live in a very safe city, nothing ever happens here. But reading this I realized how negligent I have been by not raising my kids to be aware of potential dangers. It is so easy to forget how different things are outside this bubble. Now I didn't grow up here and have certain street smarts, for example I always get my car keys (with kubaton attached) out before I leave the store, no texting/phone calls while walking, watch my surroundings, don't unlock the car until I finish putting the bags in the trunk and put the cart away.... This is just stuff I do naturally and it didn't occur to me that my kids may not do this until I read this thread and thought about it. All we tell kids here is to watch out for cars backing out of their parking spots. Nothing about situational awareness - we're going to have a serious talk today, they won't live here forever
Reply With Quote
Reply

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off

Forum Jump



All times are GMT -8. The time now is 12:52 AM.




Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.11
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions Inc.
Proudly hosted by GeoVario the Premier 2A host.
Calguns.net, the 'Calguns' name and all associated variants and logos are ® Trademark and © Copyright 2002-2021, Calguns.net an Incorporated Company All Rights Reserved.
All opinions, statements and remarks made by Calguns.net on this web site and elsewhere are solely attributable to Calguns.net.



Seams2SewBySusy