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See Also
See Again
© Shutterstock
0 / 31 Fotos
Trust your instincts
- In all scenarios, but especially unfamiliar ones, if something feels off, trust yourself and remove yourself from the situation.
© Shutterstock
1 / 31 Fotos
Keep valuables hidden
- It might be tempting to flash fancy jewelry, but this will make you a target. Avoid displaying expensive items in public.
© Shutterstock
2 / 31 Fotos
Be aware of your surroundings
- Always be mindful of what's happening around you. Occasional quick glances around and being cognizant of noises nearby can help keep you safe.
© Shutterstock
3 / 31 Fotos
Blend in
- While many of us value our uniqueness, it’s best to try and not stand out too much in unfamiliar places.
© Shutterstock
4 / 31 Fotos
Learn basic self-defense
- If ever an emergency does arise, knowing a few self-defense moves can save your life. You can even find quick tutorials online for how to best defend yourself.
© Shutterstock
5 / 31 Fotos
Know the emergency exits
- Many people don't think about potential exits or how to get out of public spaces should the need arise. However, taking the time to be aware of exits in buildings can save your life in an emergency situation.
© Shutterstock
6 / 31 Fotos
Avoid dark, isolated areas
- Sticking to well-lit, populated areas whenever possible is always a good idea. Once you venture into dark spaces, it’s easier for someone to target you and get away unseen.
© Shutterstock
7 / 31 Fotos
Limit earphone use
- Avoiding earphone use altogether is suggested. However, if you must wear them, be sure to keep the volume low or use only one side to stay aware.
© Shutterstock
8 / 31 Fotos
Carry a phone charger
- Whether it’s a wall charger or battery pack, always have something with you to give your phone a little battery. A charged phone can be a lifeline.
© Shutterstock
9 / 31 Fotos
Know basic first aid - Basic first aid knowledge can be valuable in many situations. Even small tips and tricks could help save a life.
© Shutterstock
10 / 31 Fotos
Keep cash hidden
- Especially when traveling, ensure that you are carrying some cash in a separate place from your wallet. Spreading your money out means if you are robbed, hopefully one hidden place will still have cash.
© Shutterstock
11 / 31 Fotos
Learn local customs
- Before any trip or even in your home country, understanding local customs can prevent misunderstandings and keep you safer.
© Shutterstock
12 / 31 Fotos
Use ATMs wisely
- ATMs are often hot targets for an attack, as thieves have access to you while you're not paying attention. Avoid using ATMs at night or in isolated areas.
© Shutterstock
13 / 31 Fotos
Have a backup plan
- Backup plans will give you a way to quickly exit a situation should you need to. Be sure to always have an alternative way to get home or a friend you can contact.
© Shutterstock
14 / 31 Fotos
Don't overshare with strangers
- Be cautious about the personal information you share with people you don’t know or don’t know well. People can try and convince you that they are trustworthy. Trust your gut and don’t share when you shouldn't.
© Shutterstock
15 / 31 Fotos
Know your rights
- Having even a basic understanding of your legal rights can help in encounters with law enforcement. Be respectful, but stand your ground if you are in the right.
© Shutterstock
16 / 31 Fotos
Stay sober and alert
- When drinking or while using substances, our mindset can be severely altered. Being cognizant of what and how much we are consuming can help you be more aware, especially in unfamiliar settings.
© Shutterstock
17 / 31 Fotos
Fake a call if needed
- Picking up your phone and pretending to be on a call can actually deter unwanted attention.
© Shutterstock
18 / 31 Fotos
Plan your route
- Know where you're going and how to get there safely. Walk with intent, as it will help you seem more like a local rather than a tourist or a potential target.
© Shutterstock
19 / 31 Fotos
Learn to read people
- While it’s nearly impossible to know someone completely or their intentions, practice being able to gauge people and their intent, as it can prevent potential dangers.
© Shutterstock
20 / 31 Fotos
Carry a whistle - A whistle might actually save your life! It can attract attention if you're in danger. Don’t be afraid to use it.
© Shutterstock
21 / 31 Fotos
Know local emergency numbers - When traveling or if you’re in an unfamiliar area, have local emergency numbers saved in your phone or clearly written and stored safely in your bag.
© Shutterstock
22 / 31 Fotos
Watch your drink
- Especially in very crowded places like bars or clubs, always keep an eye on your drink to avoid tampering.
© Shutterstock
23 / 31 Fotos
Be skeptical of too-good-to-be-true deals
- Scammers often prey on the naive. If you feel like something is too good of a deal, trust yourself and avoid it.
© Shutterstock
24 / 31 Fotos
Use public transportation wisely - Be aware while you are using public transportation, especially at night. People can pickpocket you or even harass you if you are alone.
© Shutterstock
25 / 31 Fotos
Avoid shortcuts - Sticking to main roads and avoiding shortcuts through alleys or unknown paths will help you be surrounded by more people and, therefore, be less of a target.
© Shutterstock
26 / 31 Fotos
Let them take your purse
- If a criminal does try to take your purse, let them. Nothing you own is worth being harmed to protect.
© Shutterstock
27 / 31 Fotos
Stay calm in confrontations
- Though tense situations can be stressful and anxiety-provoking, you want to do your best to keep calm, as it can help deescalate a situation.
© Shutterstock
28 / 31 Fotos
Keep a backup ID - When it comes to your ID, it's important to both email a copy of your ID to yourself and to carry a photocopy in your wallet, just in case you lose the original.
© Shutterstock
29 / 31 Fotos
Wear a wedding band even if you're single
- Wearing a simple wedding band or ring even if you're single can help deter creeps from approaching you. They’ll see the ring and hopefully be concerned about your partner being nearby and will likely avoid you. Sources: (BuzzFeed) (Helpful Professor)
© Shutterstock
30 / 31 Fotos
© Shutterstock
0 / 31 Fotos
Trust your instincts
- In all scenarios, but especially unfamiliar ones, if something feels off, trust yourself and remove yourself from the situation.
© Shutterstock
1 / 31 Fotos
Keep valuables hidden
- It might be tempting to flash fancy jewelry, but this will make you a target. Avoid displaying expensive items in public.
© Shutterstock
2 / 31 Fotos
Be aware of your surroundings
- Always be mindful of what's happening around you. Occasional quick glances around and being cognizant of noises nearby can help keep you safe.
© Shutterstock
3 / 31 Fotos
Blend in
- While many of us value our uniqueness, it’s best to try and not stand out too much in unfamiliar places.
© Shutterstock
4 / 31 Fotos
Learn basic self-defense
- If ever an emergency does arise, knowing a few self-defense moves can save your life. You can even find quick tutorials online for how to best defend yourself.
© Shutterstock
5 / 31 Fotos
Know the emergency exits
- Many people don't think about potential exits or how to get out of public spaces should the need arise. However, taking the time to be aware of exits in buildings can save your life in an emergency situation.
© Shutterstock
6 / 31 Fotos
Avoid dark, isolated areas
- Sticking to well-lit, populated areas whenever possible is always a good idea. Once you venture into dark spaces, it’s easier for someone to target you and get away unseen.
© Shutterstock
7 / 31 Fotos
Limit earphone use
- Avoiding earphone use altogether is suggested. However, if you must wear them, be sure to keep the volume low or use only one side to stay aware.
© Shutterstock
8 / 31 Fotos
Carry a phone charger
- Whether it’s a wall charger or battery pack, always have something with you to give your phone a little battery. A charged phone can be a lifeline.
© Shutterstock
9 / 31 Fotos
Know basic first aid - Basic first aid knowledge can be valuable in many situations. Even small tips and tricks could help save a life.
© Shutterstock
10 / 31 Fotos
Keep cash hidden
- Especially when traveling, ensure that you are carrying some cash in a separate place from your wallet. Spreading your money out means if you are robbed, hopefully one hidden place will still have cash.
© Shutterstock
11 / 31 Fotos
Learn local customs
- Before any trip or even in your home country, understanding local customs can prevent misunderstandings and keep you safer.
© Shutterstock
12 / 31 Fotos
Use ATMs wisely
- ATMs are often hot targets for an attack, as thieves have access to you while you're not paying attention. Avoid using ATMs at night or in isolated areas.
© Shutterstock
13 / 31 Fotos
Have a backup plan
- Backup plans will give you a way to quickly exit a situation should you need to. Be sure to always have an alternative way to get home or a friend you can contact.
© Shutterstock
14 / 31 Fotos
Don't overshare with strangers
- Be cautious about the personal information you share with people you don’t know or don’t know well. People can try and convince you that they are trustworthy. Trust your gut and don’t share when you shouldn't.
© Shutterstock
15 / 31 Fotos
Know your rights
- Having even a basic understanding of your legal rights can help in encounters with law enforcement. Be respectful, but stand your ground if you are in the right.
© Shutterstock
16 / 31 Fotos
Stay sober and alert
- When drinking or while using substances, our mindset can be severely altered. Being cognizant of what and how much we are consuming can help you be more aware, especially in unfamiliar settings.
© Shutterstock
17 / 31 Fotos
Fake a call if needed
- Picking up your phone and pretending to be on a call can actually deter unwanted attention.
© Shutterstock
18 / 31 Fotos
Plan your route
- Know where you're going and how to get there safely. Walk with intent, as it will help you seem more like a local rather than a tourist or a potential target.
© Shutterstock
19 / 31 Fotos
Learn to read people
- While it’s nearly impossible to know someone completely or their intentions, practice being able to gauge people and their intent, as it can prevent potential dangers.
© Shutterstock
20 / 31 Fotos
Carry a whistle - A whistle might actually save your life! It can attract attention if you're in danger. Don’t be afraid to use it.
© Shutterstock
21 / 31 Fotos
Know local emergency numbers - When traveling or if you’re in an unfamiliar area, have local emergency numbers saved in your phone or clearly written and stored safely in your bag.
© Shutterstock
22 / 31 Fotos
Watch your drink
- Especially in very crowded places like bars or clubs, always keep an eye on your drink to avoid tampering.
© Shutterstock
23 / 31 Fotos
Be skeptical of too-good-to-be-true deals
- Scammers often prey on the naive. If you feel like something is too good of a deal, trust yourself and avoid it.
© Shutterstock
24 / 31 Fotos
Use public transportation wisely - Be aware while you are using public transportation, especially at night. People can pickpocket you or even harass you if you are alone.
© Shutterstock
25 / 31 Fotos
Avoid shortcuts - Sticking to main roads and avoiding shortcuts through alleys or unknown paths will help you be surrounded by more people and, therefore, be less of a target.
© Shutterstock
26 / 31 Fotos
Let them take your purse
- If a criminal does try to take your purse, let them. Nothing you own is worth being harmed to protect.
© Shutterstock
27 / 31 Fotos
Stay calm in confrontations
- Though tense situations can be stressful and anxiety-provoking, you want to do your best to keep calm, as it can help deescalate a situation.
© Shutterstock
28 / 31 Fotos
Keep a backup ID - When it comes to your ID, it's important to both email a copy of your ID to yourself and to carry a photocopy in your wallet, just in case you lose the original.
© Shutterstock
29 / 31 Fotos
Wear a wedding band even if you're single
- Wearing a simple wedding band or ring even if you're single can help deter creeps from approaching you. They’ll see the ring and hopefully be concerned about your partner being nearby and will likely avoid you. Sources: (BuzzFeed) (Helpful Professor)
© Shutterstock
30 / 31 Fotos
Urban survival: 30 street smarts that could save your life
How to outsmart danger
© Shutterstock
Have you ever been in a situation where being aware and on your toes saved your life? Unfortunately, there are ill-intentioned people in the world who might target an unsuspecting victim. And that victim could be you. It’s essential to have street smarts when you’re out and about in the world. Whether in your own neighborhood or halfway across the globe, street smarts can literally save your life.
Street smarts are acquired through life experiences, versus book smarts, which are learned in a more traditional classroom setting. Some of the smarts on this list will likely be new for you, but all are easy to learn and even quicker to implement.
So, curious to learn how to stay safe using street smarts? Click through to learn more.
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