Article created by: Kotryna Br
Every environment has its threats. The urban one is no different. Only, the danger here usually comes in a form that's much more familiar to us than those in, say, a desert or the ocean. It's other people. However, when it comes to protecting ourselves in the city, most of us are still pretty bad at it.
But there's an online discussion that can help. A week ago, Reddit user u/LegalCriminal69 asked people with "street smarts" to share advice that can help to survive in our concrete jungle, and quite a few came through with useful tips. Continue scrolling and you will find some of the best ones.
Know that criminals rely on their victims to be polite and not cause a scene or draw attention to themselves. When something happens to you, scream and shout. Make it known you’re in danger.
If someone grabs you and starts walking you forcefully, collapse like dead weight don't help them take you somewhere. Then scream bloody murder!
I saw a lady make a video on this and I feel it’s important information to share. If you are a parent and you are in public and somehow you lose track of your kid DO NOT BE QUIET! Searching Quietly to avoid judgment or embarrassment will only lead to the further endangerment of your child. Immediately in the loudest voice possible start describing your child. The color of their hair, the color of their skin, what they are wearing, etc… most likely people around you will start looking for the child that fits that description and all the commotion will most likely (if in the case someone took the child) that person will not want to be caught and will release the child.
No shame in running away from a fight.
Always act like you know where you are going.
If you’re feeling uncomfortable or uneasy, trust it. Whenever I’ve felt uneasy while walking through my neighborhood I’ve always seen something or heard of something happening.
If you are buying something and someone says "wait here. I'll be right back with it" and they already have your money, they will not be back.
If you find yourself driving in a bad area and getting stopped at a stop sign or stop light, always leave room to get around the car in front of you. Even if that has to be the sidewalk, leave enough room to get out. Pay attention to who else is around you and if suddenly doors open and people start moving toward you just start driving and don’t stop.
They probably won’t chase you, at least not far. Easier to find another victim.
Grown men don’t ask women or children for help. They have an ulterior motive.
Grown men, if you happen to be the 1% that does approach women on the street for help, stop doing it and please stop acting surprised when we’re afraid of you. This is how we go missing.
You didn't see anything. Keep moving.
Use windows and mirrors to check behind you when you walk places. Takes less time than pulling out your phone and using the camera.
Walk with confidence, walk straight and SLIGHTLY faster than your normal pace
Don’t ever let anybody take you to a secondary location.
Nothing good comes from a stranger approaching you and saying "can I ask you a question?" - you'll be locked into a long conversation that ends with a plea for money
Keep your wallet in your front pocket
There's more than one way to get home. If you see something shady going on on your normal route you're better off taking the long way than getting involved with whatever is happening.
If you have to walk around a sketchy area don’t dress like you have anything worth taking.
If you're in a big town or a city and a group of kids surround you, keep your hands in your pockets and don't let them get behind you. Some will try to distract you while others pickpocket you.
Don't talk to any strangers and don't let them stop you on the street. Just keep walking.
Don’t cross a busy road 20ft from a crossing with a light.
Live another day.
Don't ever have your eyes looking down at the ground. Keep your eyes looking what's in front of you and attentive to your surroundings.
