Top Ways to Keep Yourself Safe and Protected Outside the Home

How safe do you think you are? If the data released by the government are to be trusted, it is fair to feel secure. According to statistics provided by the United States Department of Justice, rates of personal crimes such as rape, sexual assault, robbery, and both aggravated and simple assault are at their lowest levels in recorded history. The number of property crimes, such as burglary, theft, and motor theft, has leveled off after years of falling steadily.

However, now is not the time to take things easy or relax. You should go for a walk, ride a bike, or go for a run outside so that you can enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise at the same time. However, since you are alone, you can look like a more appealing target to someone else. Here are some pointers for various scenarios that you may keep in mind whenever you go out on your own so that you can feel confident and well-prepared wherever you go.

While Walking

It is recommended that you walk with another person or a group of friends whenever it is practical to do so. If you're among several individuals, the risk of being assaulted or robbed is significantly reduced. If you are out for a stroll by yourself, you should constantly keep an eye on what's going on in the area. Always stay in popular locations that have lots of street lights, and steer clear of alleyways and other shortcuts if possible. When listening to music via headphones, particularly late at night, maintain vigilance. Headphones are not just a distraction but also potentially valuable items that are worth stealing. Be careful to stow away any valuables in the pocket of your coat or the bag you're carrying.

While Travelling

Never exit a cab in an area that is desolate or poorly lit, and never do so in the company of a person you have never met before. You should never make it known to the general public that you will be traveling by yourself, and you should schedule frequent check-in times to ensure that someone is aware that you are okay. Due to the unpredictability of life away from home, it's wise to prepare for any eventuality by stocking up on bulletproof travel gear and more from this website, just to be sure. You should commit the location of the hotel to memory, leave the key to your room at the front desk, and advise the staff of the time that you anticipate returning. Always travel on the major roads and avoid using any side streets or shortcuts. 

While in Public Transport

Make it a point to get on the bus at a stop where there are already other people waiting. If you are going to catch a train, you should wait in an area of the platform that has a lot of light so that you can see clearly if somebody is coming toward you. Once you've boarded the vehicle, choose a seat where there are a lot of other passengers or adjacent to the driver. Talk to the driver if you are experiencing any feelings of unease or fear. The majority of trains are equipped with emergency alarms. Don't be hesitant to utilize them if you find yourself in a sticky situation.

While Getting a Taxi

If you're going to take a taxi, check to see whether it has a valid license. Keep the phone number of a reputable taxi company on your mobile device at all times. You should wait inside until the taxi comes. If you have to wait outdoors, choose a place that is busy and has lots of street lights to stand under. If you are unfamiliar with any taxi businesses in the area, you may call directory assistance or walk into a local store or restaurant and ask the staff to place a call for you to a taxi company. Always make sure the taxi has a license plate and check the sign on the top. Don't go in there if you don't feel comfortable.

While in Your Vehicle

First and foremost, always lock your car, whether you're in it or not. When you go up to your parked automobile, be prepared to enter by checking the inside. Drive to a police station or a popular public spot, such as a 24-hour convenience store or petrol station, if you feel like you're being followed. Take down the vehicle's VIN and try to remember the manufacturer and model. Do not drive home; the suspicious individual could follow you. Don't be careless and abandon your vehicle's registration or insurance card either. Your home address and other details are shown. Keep a mobile phone with you at all times. You may call for assistance whenever you need it and even assist other motorists who are stuck in the same situation.

While Being out at Night

Always have a plan for getting home (hire a cab or arrange for a friend or family member to pick you up), have emergency contacts on your phone, and make sure your phone is charged and has enough credit before going out at night. Having a personal alarm may do the same thing for your peace of mind. When activated, the alarm emits a loud, piercing sound that might deter would-be attackers. Home improvement stores often sell personal alarms.

While Partying

For the ladies alone! Women who have been drugged without their permission account for thousands of annual visits to emergency rooms. One of the most common ways that women are abused sexually in bars and clubs is when they have been drinking alcohol and someone sneaks something into their drink. Date rapes often include the use of Rohypnol and Extasy. Because of this, you should never leave your drink alone and should refuse drinks from strangers. When going out, stick with individuals you know and trust, and always keep a hand over your drink so no one can sneak anything in there.

It is essential that you take measures to keep yourself safe at all times, whether you are at home, out with friends, or away on vacation. You should avoid putting yourself in precarious circumstances as much as possible. Maintain vigilance, lock up your house and valuables, and always map out your routes before you go out.