GUEST SAFETY EXPERT K.M. FAWCETT -- DRIVE-UP ATM SAFETY

Today we welcome back safety expert K.M. Fawcett with some more safety tips as we head out for our holiday shopping or anytime.

K.M. Fawcett is a Nidan (2nd degree black belt) in Isshinryu Karate. She and her husband Scott own the Tenchi Isshinryu Karate Dojo, located in Lebanon, NJ. K.M. is also a certified women’s self-defense instructor with the FLAG (Fight Like a Girl) Program. K.M. writes paranormal romances and loves kick butt heroes and heroines. When not writing novels or teaching karate, you can find her blogging about martial arts and writing action at www.attackingthepage.wordpress.com. -- AP

The Drive Up ATM

Use the drive up Automated Teller Machine (ATM) during daylight hours.  If you must use an ATM after hours, take someone with you.

Choose an ATM that looks and “feels” safer, even if it’s a few miles away.  Avoid ATM machines with poor lighting or visibility.  Avoid ATMs near obvious hiding places like shrubbery or overgrown trees.  Robbers like to have the element of surprise and no witnesses.

Make sure no one is hiding or loitering in the area of the ATM.  If someone looks suspicious or you have a gut feeling something isn’t right, drive away and find another ATM.

Keep your engine running, your doors locked and all other windows rolled up.  It might also be a good idea to leave enough space between your car and the one in line ahead of you in case you have to maneuver your vehicle out of there.

Make your transaction as quick as possible by having your card ready and your PIN number memorized.  Avoid counting your money in public.  Immediately put away your cash.

Be aware of your surroundings by watching your side and rear view mirrors during the transaction.  Robbers will most likely attack from the rear on the driver’s side.

If you see anyone approaching or feel threatened in any way, drive off immediately.

If an armed robber demands your cash, card or both, or tries to enter your vehicle, drive away.  Call the police and report the incident.
Great advice! Thanks so much for joining us today, K.M. So readers, do you practice safe ATM withdrawals? Post a comment to be entered in our drawing for a book from our Book Club Friday guest author. -- AP