Last week a car confidence evening for women was organised by FG Barnes, a Vauxhall retailer in Kent. This included DIY car mechanics, personal self-protection techniques and tips to help cope with any road rage.
Ladies headed for the car dealership’s workshops where volunteers were encouraged to change a car’s wheel under the supervision of the Vauxhall dealership’s service technicians and were given practical advice including dealing with roadside emergencies, routine car maintenance and checking oil and fluid levels.
Karate instructor and self-protection specialist Grant Hicks then made the subject of defending yourself from a would-be mugger entertaining and instructive.
He developed the personal safety theme and demonstrated a quick-fire method of foiling a would-be assailant, which involved disarming him – or her – in three easy moves with the aid of everyday objects such as a torch or a pen.
“Women are perceived as being more vulnerable than men and are seen as an easy target when it comes to road rage,” said Grant.
“Also, other people can be too scared to get involved, even if they see it’s a woman being attacked, so you have to be able to defend yourself.”
The final ingredient on the night was to do with the psychology behind dangerous and aggressive driving behaviour and dealing with behind-the-wheel bullies.
This was explored by ex-Police Chief Inspector Vic Botterill, who gave his audience advice about avoiding the need to use one of Grant’s techniques when faced with road rage. “Mouthing sorry can stop a minor incident turning into road rage,” he said. “If you know you’re wrong, just say it. If it’s gone beyond that and you’re dealing with a violent man, keep your distance – invading his personal space isn’t going to make the situation better. Speak calmly and never, ever, smile. That will only pour petrol onto what is an emotional bonfire.” emphasised Vic.
As well as FOXY Lady Drivers Club attending, Max and Val Power and Margaret Robertson from the Mid Kent Group of Advanced Motorists were on hand to discuss their organisation’s various advanced driving courses.
Daniella Smith, a talking therapist for the Kent & Medway NHS and Social Care Trust commented: “I didn’t know very much about my car or what I should do if my car broke down by the roadside until tonight, but now I feel I could cope with most situations. I don’t think women can afford any longer to ignore the dangers on our roads,” she confessed. “Tonight’s Women in the Driving Seat evening was well organised and great fun too. I feel that I have learned something useful about my car today.”
Philippa Nelson-Gracie, Mayoress of Maidstone, agreed that the practical approach was best. “In my opinion, car care and maintenance are areas where many women feel they don’t know enough.”
“We were put at our ease tonight and not made to feel stupid in any way when asking questions. Events like this can only be beneficial and I think other car retailers should be following suit” she added.
For further information about Women in the Driving Seat evenings at FG Barnes please contact Ann Gibbs on tel 01622 755 531.