Cities have so much to offer you and whether you live in one or visit them to try a new sushi restaurant, shop for shoes or enjoy a basketball game, being street savvy is important to keep you and those you love safe. Here are some tips for staying safe while having a great time out and about with friends and family.
- Look for the Light
It is easy to stay in well-lit areas when moving about in a city during the day, but at night, it is very important to keep to the lighted streets. If you are driving, look for available spaces next to parking lot lights and, if possible, in lots with attendants. When traveling underground, stick to the open areas and avoid the dark spaces, especially if some lights are out.
- Organize Your Outing
When you know where you are going, you can move with confidence and present yourself as less of a target for criminals to take advantage of. Have a plan for how to reach your destination and let others know where you are going and when you will arrive. Using your phone for GPS is fine but do not let it distract you. Be aware of where you are so you do not get lost. If something seems off, don’t wait around to see what happens. Trust your gut and avoid any situations that could develop into a bad scene.
- Go in Groups
There is truth in the saying safety in numbers and planning to go places with friends or family will lessen the chances of becoming a victim. If you have an accident or incident, then you have others with you to provide help. Members of your group can look out for each other and use the buddy system to stay safe and enjoy time together without worrying about watching your backs for predators. It is nice to make new friends, but it is safer to avoid contact with strangers unless necessary.
- Protect Your Pockets
As important as it is to be prepared for anything, the more you bring on your outing in the city, the more you will have to keep track of, so one way to make your day easier is to only bring with you what you will need. Since you have a plan, you know what is necessary besides the essentials of a wallet, keys and phone. Keep these in your front pockets if possible to protect your valuables from thieves. Putting them in a bag worn across the shoulders with the pouch in front is also an easy method to keep your stuff safe. Whistles or alarms are safety tools you can carry for self-protection.
- Watch the Weather
Checking the forecast before heading out is smart so you can prepare to be safe in changing circumstances. If your city is expecting snow, wearing and packing appropriate gear will keep you and your loved ones safe while going to and from your destination. Staying hydrated is important in any season, but especially in the hot months, so you can either bring water with you or money to buy some while you are out. Ponchos can be a great alternative to umbrellas because they can be very compact and lightweight. Take weather conditions into consideration when planning how and what time to arrive and depart the city.
- Forget the Fight
Your life is more valuable than your stuff, so if there is a confrontation with a criminal, it is not worth fighting with him or her to keep your cash and get you or someone with you hurt in the process. Leaving irreplaceable items at home is a great idea.
You may be planning on visiting a city you have never been to on a family vacation or returning to your favorite one with your best friend. In either case, staying safe is a priority to ensure a happy experience for all. Keep in well-lit areas with your people and store your valuables in a place on yourthat thieves cannot get to. Plan your day to familiarize yourself with street names and landmarks and consider the weather. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the amazing features of the city!
