Most people never imagine how simple a setup can be. A plastic bottle, placed just right near a tire, waits patiently for you to move. When it crunches, it doesn’t just startle you—it pulls you out of the car, away from the one place you’re momentarily shielded. In that sliver of time, with your door open, engine running, and attention elsewhere, the person who planted it suddenly has everything they need.

You don’t need fear to stay safe; you need habits. A quick scan around your car before you unlock it. Doors locked the moment you’re inside, and locked again if you step out, even “for a second.” Bags and valuables tucked out of sight, not displayed like invitations. And above all, listening when something feels off instead of brushing it away. With small, steady choices, you turn planned chaos into a failed attempt, and keep control of the quiet, ordinary moments that belong to you.