W hen a woman drives alone, meeting with an accident is not the biggest risk. The risk of being kidnapped, carjacked, being followed and targeted by predators is greater for women, especially at night.

Here are some tips for females driving alone: O Make sure your car is in good mechanical condition to avoid a sudden break-down.

O Lock all doors and roll up the windows when you are inside the car.

O Keep an emergency number on speed dial on your mobile phone at all times.

O Always take routes you are familiar with and where there is a traffic flow and people around.

O Always try to park your car in paid parking where available.

O Make sure you already have your key in hand when approaching your parked car. Do not search for it in your purse standing beside the car.

O If you are suspicious of someone following you, either move towards a traffic policeman, a friend`s or a relative`s place or drive into a public area.

O If an accident occurs that seems deliberate, or even if not, do not get outof your car; keep your doors locked unless people have gathered or there is major damage.

O If you think you are lost, do not ask for directions from random people. Stay in your car and ask a traffic policeman for directions.

O If you notice suspicious people near your parked car, go into a public area and ask for help instead of walking to your car.

O In dangerous situations such as people in civilian clothes trying to stop you during driving, speed up, start honking and flash the beamer to attract surrounding people`s attention.

O In case your car breaks down, lock yourself inside your car until help arrives.

O Do not drive too slow as this will make you an easy victim. Know your directions well and make a quick trip to your intended place.

O If it is too late at night, ask a friend or colleague to give you cover.

O Do not overdress if you have to drive at night to avoid catching undue attention. Even cover your head to avoid being noticed. E -A.K