In today’s world, it’s very important to take the necessary steps to protect your personal safety. One of the most common crime-related problems that many people fear when traveling, is that they will be mugged or robbed. This is an especially common fear when traveling in an unfamiliar area, or walking alone during the night hours. Here is some useful advice that you can use to protect yourself against muggers, or discourage them from choosing you as their target.
Be Inconspicuous.
Even if you’re a naturally creative person, it’s best to avoid standing out from the crowd. Avoid wearing bright colors, flashy jewelry or carrying an expensive bag/purse. If you’re traveling in the city, it’s usually best to choose your attire by what most other people are wearing. In most cases, a dark-toned overcoat with a stylish cut will allow you to be comfortable, yet avoid attracting too much attention.
Travel Smart.
Though it may be common sense, avoiding dangerous areas while traveling can greatly lower your risk of being a target of crime. Before entering an area, plan your route to your destination. If necessary, make use of public transportation in order to avoid unnecessary travel in dangerous areas.
Be Prepared.
In the event that you are threatened by a criminal, you may need to defend yourself. It’s highly recommended that you carry a travel-size can of pepper spray in your purse or bag when traveling in dangerous areas. However, some states have restrictions that prohibit certain types of pepper spray. For a more detailed explanation of these state-specific regulations, as well as some important tips about pepper spray, you can read: Defensive Pepper Spray – A Buyer’s Guide.
Bring a Companion.
As a general rule, it’s always best to travel with a companion than to travel alone. When possible, bring someone with you if you absolutely need to travel through a dangerous area. If you are in an unfamiliar city, ask a friend or relative to accompany you. Traveling alone may be appealing to some, but it also increases your risk of being targeted by potential thieves.
Don’t Be a Tourist.
Many criminals target potential mugging victims from the tourist population in a specific area. Because of this, try not to be too conspicuous about your tourism activities. Avoid wearing novelty items, or taking an excessive amount of pictures when in a dangerous area.
Don’t Flash Your Wallet.
Many cities have street vendors that offer a variety of inexpensive items for purchase. However, when removing money from your wallet or purse to purchase an item, you are making yourself vulnerable. Try to avoid removing your wallet from your pocket, since it may be easily taken by a potential thief. Instead, remove only enough money for street purchases, keeping it in the front pocket of your pants or coat.
Never Press Your Luck.
In order to be completely safe, if you feel that you are in a dangerous situation, it’s always best to leave. Even if you are only confronted by a single attacker, do not risk your own safety because you believe you have a chance of overpowering them. If you have a defensive item such as pepper spray, use it to disorient your attacker, and then immediately run to a safe area.
