Security Ideas for Feminine Truck Drivers

There’s a cause there are blogs, social media pages, and nonprofit organizations devoted to the protection of feminine truck drivers. Whereas security ought to be each driver’s prime precedence, ladies within the trucking business face distinctive discrimination and threats to their security which are critical and persevering with to evolve.  

 

Though ladies have been pioneers within the industrial driving business since its origins within the early 1900s, they’ve needed to battle for progress and recognition, in addition to for help towards security threats. Trendy instances have seen enhancements in equality behind the wheel, however many feminine truck drivers nonetheless really feel like they’re on their very own to guard themselves at truck stops and in different business settings. Preserve studying when you’re in search of vital tricks to keep away from harmful conditions as a lady within the trucking enterprise.  

 

Trendy Occasions Means Trendy Threats 

Sadly, as know-how and concepts proceed to develop over time, so do the individuals who abuse them. One risk that’s more and more harmful for ladies within the trucking business is human trafficking.  

 

Truck stops are sometimes secure, stress-free locations that give all members of the trucking group a a lot wanted recharge and refuel level. Nonetheless, they may also be used as factors to mark and goal solo truck drivers as potential victims, and as stopping factors for traffickers already transporting kidnapped ladies and youngsters.  

 

Many veteran feminine truck drivers have probably life saving tricks to keep away from harmful conditions that they use irrespective of the place they’re.

One driver, who is not going to be recognized for her security, was just lately at a truck cease and observed a zipper tie had been placed on her emergency air line whereas she was sleeping. It is a identified sign for traffickers, together with tissues, paper, and different small, deliberately positioned markers.  

 

When you encounter one thing like this, don’t try to take away the marker by yourself. Traffickers typically use medication that may be absorbed by way of pores and skin contact alone. In a state of affairs like this, it is suggested to get to a secure location instantly and name the police. If this appears dramatic, take into account that making a call like this may very well be the distinction between life or dying.  

 

Ideas and Methods from Girls within the Subject  

Human trafficking shouldn’t be the one security risk that feminine truckers face. Right here at Drive My Means, now we have compiled recommendation that actual ladies within the trucking business have shared on social media and blogs for a way they continue to be secure and cozy whereas nonetheless getting the job accomplished.  

 

A few of the most necessary and broadly shared suggestions clarify how a lady driving solo could make it seem as if she isn’t alone. Making it seem as when you have a driving associate, husband, and even canine may be a straightforward and efficient approach to defend your self at truck stops or in different uncomfortable conditions.  

 

• If somebody asks, say your associate (or canine!) is sleeping within the cab. For this to be the best, hold the curtain drawn in your sleeper so nobody trying in can inform. When you’re feeling particularly uncomfortable in a setting, you would possibly wish to faux to have a dialog with whoever is “behind the scenes.” 
• Put on a marriage ring. 
• Order two plates of meals/drinks to carry again to the cab.  

• When getting into your cab, knock on the door as if somebody is inside, then discreetly open the door your self.  

 

Many ladies have additionally shared suggestions that they observe always to keep up their security.  

 

• At all times verify your trailer if you come again for something out of the extraordinary, and lock it earlier than you permit, even when simply fueling.  

• Park as near the truck cease as you possibly can, and solely in properly lit areas.  
• Restrict your distractions when outdoors of your truck, so you possibly can all the time pay attention to your environment. This would possibly imply staying off your cellphone and all the time being alert.  
• Contemplate safety for your self, equivalent to bear/wasp spray, mace, or a canine (if your organization permits it!) 
• Put on saggy clothes if you’re particularly uncomfortable in a setting.  

 

 

It’s a unhappy actuality that feminine truck drivers face threats to their security throughout the nation. Nonetheless, it is very important pay attention to this disparity to proceed the battle for elevated security laws and enhancements to truck cease safety. Girls are a quick rising minority within the trucking business, however there may be nonetheless a protracted approach to go.  

 

Are there any security suggestions we missed? Which truck stops make you’re feeling probably the most snug and secure? Please tell us on our social media so we will proceed to share info that helps make the trucking business equal for each driver.