Ladies, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: you cannot expect to stay safe if you are not situationally aware of your surroundings. This Guns Saving Lives story out of Jacksonville, FL highlights how important it is to always be aware and have an option for self-defense.

Police say a woman was being trailed Wednesday morning as she drove into her neighborhood and pulled up to her house onNorth Myrtle Street.

Police say the suspect followed the woman to her home in the Durkeeville neighborhood just before 10 a.m., then forced his way inside, according to police. When he tried to rob her, she grabbed a gun and shot him once in the torso, police said.

The wounded man fled the scene, then called 911 himself and was taken to a hospital with non-life threatening injuries, police said. A few minutes later, another call to police reported a strong-arm home-invasion robbery nearby, the caller telling dispatchers that she had shot a suspect, police said.

Whether you’re in your home or out and about, continue to be aware of your surroundings and always know your options for self-defense on every leg of your travels. Whether you are a concealed carry permit holder or are uncomfortable carrying a gun for protection, going through a Refuse to be a Victim program can help you take steps to ensure your safety and avoid potentially dangerous situations.

Don’t frequent stores alone after dark, if you must, be sure to park close to the doors in a well-lit area, check the area around your car before unlocking the doors, make eye contact with people around you, walk purposefully with your head held high, ask a security guard or employee to walk you to your car if you feel uncomfortable, drive to a police station or heavily populated establishment (like a gas station) if you think you’re being followed, don’t sit in your car looking down at your phone – there are many ways you can avoid danger and deter individuals considering you as their next target.

Learn how and commit to living situationally aware very day – it just may save your life.