Experiencing street life is a great quality, but also a great way to protect yourself. Find out about neighborhoods, transportation, and emergency services wherever you are. Avoid dangerous places and situations and always stay alert. Always trust your instincts and, if you have to make a mistake, do it out of prudence.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Stay on Guard
Step 1. Don't wear earphones on the road
While it's nice to listen to music as you walk, it's best to stay as alert as possible. If you cannot hear the noises around you, you will be more prone to accidents or assaults. If you can't help but listen to a song or audio file on the go, just use a headset or keep the volume very low.
Step 2. Don't look at the phone while walking
Between social media, games, text messages, phone calls and viral videos, the cell phone can be a strong distraction. So put it away when you are on the street, so that you can keep your head up and focus on the reality around you. If you have to check it out, stop and take a quick look to avoid the risk of accidents, muggings or other unpleasant incidents.
Step 3. Learn to recognize the dangers
Being on guard means noticing anything that could harm you and, consequently, avoiding it. As you walk, spot potential dangers and keep an eye on them. In particular, stay away from:
- Parked vans.
- Wandering groups or individuals.
- Anyone who gives you the impression that they are disguising their face.
Step 4. Trust your instincts
If you feel uncomfortable in any situation, walk away immediately. Regardless of whether or not you have reason to suspect danger, always follow your instincts. If someone's behavior puts you on alert, apologize and walk away right away so that they don't get a chance to make you change their mind.
Part 2 of 3: Protecting yourself
Step 1. Always carry your phone with you
To be safe, you need to be able to communicate and ask for help. If you can't afford a smartphone and an expensive phone contract, choose a prepaid phone to take with you in case you need it. Memorize some emergency numbers for quick access.
Step 2. Move with someone when possible
Unity is strength, so if you can, don't move alone. Invite family or friends for a walk, a ride, or some errand. Their company will make the journey more enjoyable and you will not be a target exposed to the attentions of dangerous subjects.
Step 3. Avoid dark and isolated places
When you go out it is always better to move by choosing well-lit and busy streets. Do not take shortcuts that pass through dark alleys or tree-lined areas, even if they allow you to shorten the journey. Avoid places that become depopulated after a certain time, such as schoolyards, parks and parking lots.
If you need to go to an isolated and dimly lit place, go with company or talk to someone on the phone when you are around there
Step 4. Don't accompany yourself with strangers
Whether you are small or large in age, you need to be careful when interacting with people you don't know. Try to stay at least an arm's length away from them and avoid approaching strangers' cars if you are called. Under no circumstances should you follow them, regardless of whether they ask you for help or say they know you.
Step 5. Calculate how close the "safe places" are
See if there is a police station, fire station, or hospital nearby in case of an emergency. It's also good to know which businesses are open late in the area, on the off chance that you need some help during the night. Consider friends who live nearby so that you can reach out to them if the need arises.
- Rush to these places if you feel threatened or unsafe.
- If you find yourself in danger and don't see "safe places", call the police for help.
Step 6. Run and scream if you feel threatened
Don't hesitate to make noise and walk away if you don't feel safe. If there is any threat, run as fast as you can to a nearby police station, hospital or shop for help. Shout out loud to get people's attention and dissuade a potential attacker from chasing you.
Step 7. Take a self-defense course
In addition to being a great workout, it will teach you important skills. If you are able to defend yourself in dangerous situations, you will be more confident and prepare yourself for street life. Contact an association in your neighborhood or search the Internet for a self-defense course held in your area.
Part 3 of 3: Knowing the Surrounding Environment
Step 1. Limit yourself to your usual journeys if possible
It's best to walk the streets you are familiar with by taking the buses and trains you know. Always choose the safest route instead of venturing into the unknown. If you can, avoid unusual routes to work, school, or home.
Step 2. Track your routes on the Internet
Use Google Maps or GPS on your phone to study your route in a new place before you go. Consider driving, walking, or public transport directions. Take a screenshot of it so you can easily refer to it later.
Step 3. Find out about public transportation
Knowing how to get around the city is essential if you want to be familiar with street life. A good knowledge of the bus, metro and train routes will allow you to quickly reach the various points of the city. It will also help you find an escape route if you are in a place or situation that you want to escape from.
Step 4. Don't change direction
As a general rule, it is always better to go to the predetermined destination when you leave the house; this way friends and family will know where you are or where you are heading. So, stick to your plans instead of wandering around or changing plans at the last minute, so as not to run into unpleasant surprises.
