After the news broke of a hiker's body found in Waretown on Friday, it's been weighing on me to write a little public service announcement regarding safety while out and about this summer.

I like to consider myself a pretty independent gal that can take care of herself. I will admit, however, that I've been in more than one incident where I was fearful for my life. For example, I was held at gun point in the Wawa parking lot of the town I grew up in. This was as an adult, mind you. I'd never had an incident there until I was fully grown. So, my point is, safety tips aren't just for the kids. We may be grown and full capable adult women now, ladies, but it's never a bad idea to keep your wits about you.

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The police are calling the whole situation regarding the women's body found on the Barnegat Branch Trail over the weekend "suspicious" according to NJ.com. In light of that entire ordeal, please let the following bits of advice sink in. Are they, pretty much, just common sense? Yeah, basically. However, it never hurts to be reminded of them. Keep them in the forefront of your mind.

1.) STAY ALERT

Whether you're out on a nice jog through a park or boardwalk you're familiar with or taking the kids with you to the grocery store, make sure you're aware of your surroundings. So often, we're so worried about completing the task at hand like conquering the grocery list in a timely manner or getting just 1/10th of a mile more in before turning for home that we're not aware of the people around us. The best way to prevent anything happening to you or your loved ones is to remain alert and vigilant at all times.

2.) TRUST YOUR GUT

It doesn't matter if you've been somewhere hundreds of times. If something doesn't feel right about someone or a specific situation, remove yourself immediately. I refer to a woman's intuition as our direct line of communication with our guardian angels. I always say that if your gut's telling you something's off, that's a warning from the heavens. Whatever you believe in that regard is irrelevant. If you believe anything, TRUST YOUR GUT.

3.) LET PEOPLE IN YOUR CIRCLE KNOW YOUR PLANS

It's not a bad idea to make sure someone you know, trust, and love is always in the loop. If you're going on a day trip with the kids, let someone know. If you're trying out a new trail, text someone your location. Again, better to be safe than sorry, right?

4.) DON'T BE AFRAID TO MAKE YOURSELF SEEN/HEARD

As we mature, we never want to be looked at as someone who makes a scene or causes any trouble. However, if you feel like you're in a situation where something is off, make sure you draw attention to yourself and your position. The more witnesses, the better.

Again, are most of these points common sense? Of course they are. However, how often are you keeping them in mind? Hopefully, if you're reading this, the points made will stick with you for more than just the next couple of minutes.

Have a safe and happy summer 2021!

Source: NJ.com

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