Loaded Revulvas

Seven Simple Ways to Stay Street-safe

How many of these simple—and effective—street safety tips do you know? These simple—and effective—ways to stay street-safe may be all-new to some, and others might know them all. It doesn’t matter—knowledge is power, and even a refresher course can teach a new thing or two. Check out these handy tips:
Some of these tips you may already know, and others might sound just plain silly. However, the phrase “you can never be too careful” is an all too familiar one in today’s world, and if you’re “better safe than sorry,” a little silliness could go a long way.
1. Step Lively – Walk with determination. Even if you’re just out walking for exercise’s sake, set a destination for yourself. You’ll walk with more confidence and an air of intent. People who are expected to be somewhere are less likely to be trifled with than those who are obviously wandering aimlessly.
2. Straighten Up – The way you carry yourself is a nonverbal sign of confidence, confusion, or complacence. Walk upright, take your hands out of your pockets, and look where you’re going—not down at the sidewalk. This sends a strong signal of confidence and assertiveness.
3. Be a Bag Lady – What makes an easier target—a purse or a plain paper bag? Instead of carrying a big purse with you—or even a small purse—put your bare necessities in an ordinary paper bag. Take only what you really need with you—this should really boil down to little more than keys, identification, and a few bucks.
4. Dress for Success – Purses slung over one shoulder are easy to snatch. If you must carry a purse, sling it crosswise. Avoid providing “handles” for would-be attackers –if you have long hair, avoid wearing it in a ponytail or braid that trails behind you. Wear them if you must, but bring them forward from behind you over your shoulder to the front. The same rule applies if you’re wearing a scarf—don’t trail the ends behind you…and avoid wearing hoods that obstruct your peripheral vision.
5. Scope Out the Scene – How observant are you of your surroundings? People who display an awareness of their surroundings are less of a target.
6. Follow Your Hunches – If you feel unsafe, go with the feeling. Change your route slightly or cut your walk short, if possible. If you can, make a phone call while you walk. You’re far less of a target when you’ve got someone with you on your walk—even if they’re just on the phone.
7. Talk to Yourself – Quite frankly, people are less likely to mess with others who display odd behavior—like talking to yourself. Actually, “self-talk” is a basic form of therapy that can often bring solutions to problems or pull you through feelings of low self-esteem.
The streets can be very threatening, but many threats can be eliminated with a little street safety know-how. Be smart—and be safe!