Safety Tips for When You Are Going Out
Now that face-to-face classes are happening and the holiday season is approaching, people are out again in the streets to either work or celebrate. With this comes the dangers of being out. So, to ease your worries and aid you in enjoying your time out, here are some safety tips you should follow.
Have Someone Know Your Updated Location
Your location tells so much about your current physical state. Your loved ones can know what neighborhood you are in or where to retrace your steps if something happens by simply updating them with your location. Messaging your loved ones with your location is one way to update them, but maximizing your smartphone is also another efficient way.
Built-in Global Positioning System (GPS) applications such as Find My iPhone (for iOS) or Google Maps (for Android) have real-time location-sharing features that you can easily enable. You can also install third-party applications on your phone, such as Life360, if you are to share your location with loved ones who have a different smartphone than you do.
Have Self-Defense Items With You
Self-defense items are always handy, especially if you are going out. And, self-defense items are now widely available in the market. You can buy a self-defense kit in a keychain, pepper spray, a taser, or a metal staff. You can always make your own, too. In purchasing self-defense items, you must also remember to check if you can bring those inside an establishment, for some have rules disallowing it.
Stay in Groups and in a Well-Lit Area
The saying, “strength in numbers,” is something that you should hold on to when going out. Do not go into areas that are secluded and away from where you can quickly get help. Similarly, ensure that the place you are going to is well-lit even when the night falls. Both of these are extremely important to ensure that a bystander can see you and is within your reach if you ever need help regarding your safety.
Be Mindful of Your Valuables
If you have eye-catching valuables with you, keep them hidden and secured when you are going out. You should not draw attention and make yourself a prime target of robbery or similar acts because of your valuables.
If you could not help but bring valuables out, such as your money and your phone, make sure to not put them in the same place that could quickly be taken in one swipe. Distribute your money, put some in your purse, pockets, and even your shoes if you want to. You can also buy a strap for your phone; that way, it cannot be quickly snatched away from you.
Be Present and Alert
Nothing beats a present and alert mind. Refrain from being distracted by things such as your phone when going out. Instead, be mindful of your surroundings and the people you are with. Look for suspicious individuals and behaviors, and quickly take yourself out of it before a situation arises. Remember, it is never wrong to trust your gut feeling, especially when you are out in public.
With different crimes happening around us, you can not be too careful. So, memorize these tips by heart, and always remember that your safety should be your utmost priority.
