When it comes to protecting yourself and your belongings, it’s not just the home and office you need to worry about. It’s important to be sensible and vigilant while you’re out and about, particularly after dark, when you’re alone, or when you’re in an unfamiliar area or country. We’ve got some tips to help you stay safe on the street.

Awareness

You should always be aware of your surroundings. This can keep you safe from accidents, such as being aware of the traffic on the street and being safe on the roads. It can also keep you away from other unsafe situations and people. Be aware of who is around you, who might have been following your direction for a while, and how safe an area looks in terms of whether it is well-lit, whether there are other people around, and whether you have alternative routes to take if you need to escape a situation.

Watch your belongings

Be careful with your phone and other belongings while you’re on the street, particularly when in busy crowds. Keeping your phone in your back pocket may be convenient, but it could easily be snatched by someone walking past you. If you have a bag or a purse, keep it close by your side with at least a hand on it. If you regularly carry a backpack, then consider one with anti-theft features that could keep someone out of it.

Safety in numbers

If possible, try to avoid walking alone at night. No matter who you are, you’re always going to be more of a target if you’re by yourself. Walking in a pair or a group will often deter a thief or predator from targeting you. Consider getting a cab instead if you will otherwise be walking alone.

Confidence is key

There’s a reason why tourists so often get targeted when visiting a country other than their own. They look like tourists, like they’re lost and unsure of their surroundings, making them seem like an easy target. When you’re out and about, try to look confident and like you’re familiar with your surroundings. If you are going somewhere unfamiliar, check your route beforehand so that you don’t have to keep pulling your phone out to check the map. Not only does this make your phone vulnerable to snatching, but it also makes you look vulnerable.

Hopefully these tips will help you stay safe on the streets, and a comprehensive home security system will keep you safe once you step back through your front door. If you want to upgrade your security, contact Carolina Alarm for our support and services.