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Stay Healthy and Avoid Danger
Stay Healthy and Avoid Danger
Stay Healthy and Avoid Danger
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Tune into what’s going on around you.[4] Try to make eye contact with the
people nearby, so thieves won’t be as likely to target you. Also, don’t walk
and text; instead, focus on your surroundings, so you won’t be taken by
surprise.[5]
For example, you might watch for someone following you, or
someone lurking suspiciously along the side of the street.
If you’re listening to music on the go, only listen with 1 earbud.
This way, you can still hear what’s going around you.[6]
3
Carry your bag in front of you.
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Don’t carry valuables in your back pocket. As you walk, cover the zipper
or fastener of your bag with your hand, so criminals don’t have easy access.
As an extra precaution, only grab your wallet or phone if you absolutely need
it.[7]
4
Don’t carry heavy objects.
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Always act like you have a place to be. Walk confidently and assertively,
moving your feet in a smooth, fluid motion as you go. Also, stand with alert,
upright posture, and bend your arms slightly as you move. Follow the speed
of the crowds around you, so you don’t stick out to potential criminals.[11]
If you can, avoid taking super long steps. Criminals are more
likely to target you if your walking pattern is strange.
8
Carry your cell phone with you.
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A cell phone can get you out of a potentially dangerous situation. Before
heading out by yourself, double-check that you have your cell phone handy.
Try to charge your phone frequently, so it’s juiced up when you need it.[12]
Keep your emergency contacts saved in your phone, as well as
the number for a local taxi company.
9
Create an escape plan.
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Exit routes are a great way to plan ahead. Scout out your surroundings
whenever you’re in a new, unfamiliar place. Brainstorm quick, easy ways you
can escape the area if you’re ever in danger. Be on the lookout for emergency
phones and helpful bystanders, too—a helping hand or quick phone call might
come in handy.[13]
You might look for a fire escape, or a stairwell that offers an
easy exit.
10
Tell someone where you’re going.
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A concerned friend or loved one will have your back if something goes
wrong. Give someone the low-down on where you’re going, and what time
you expect to be back. If you’re embarking on a longer trip, let a loved one
know when you plan on checking in. If anything should go wrong, your friend
can alert authorities right away.[14]
You could say, “I’m going on a day-long hike at the quarry, and
I won’t be back until around 8 PM. I’ll check-in with you
around noon.”
You might also say, “I’m going camping over the weekend, but
I’ll do my best to check in once a day. If you don’t hear from
me for some reason, call the local park ranger.”
11
Hang out with people you trust.
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Don’t spend too much time with people you don’t know. It can be fun to
meet new people, but you should never sacrifice your personal safety for a fun
outing. Only go out and about with close friends who you know will have
your back.[15]
For example, if an acquaintance you meet at a party invites you
to hang out at their place, say no.
12
Be careful if you drink in public.
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Don’t let criminals have easy access to your vehicle. Get your keys out and
ready as you approach your car, so you aren’t taken by surprise while you
search through your bag. In general, try to get in the habit of locking your car
doors as soon as you get in or out of your vehicle.[19]
15
Plan a safe driving route home.
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