7 Tips to Avoid Being a Victim of Violent Crime

Criminals can be anywhere at any time. It doesn’t matter if you live in a fancy neighborhood or a ghetto. If someone wants to harm you they will plan it out and wait for you to appear. So remember the adage “the best defense is a good offense” and never be sorry for always having a plan to escape a bad situation.

1. Pay attention to your surroundings and those who are nearby.
Criminals watch people and pick their victims carefully. If you’re walking fast, with confidence and looking around they’re less likely to pick you. If however you’re looking down at your phone or chatting away on it while they watch you there is a good chance they will find their opportunity to attack. If you find yourself being watched simply change your path abruptly and go to where there is more light, more people or inside an open business as quickly as you can.

2. Carry a weapon you’re confident with.
If you have to go somewhere alone always have a weapon with you. It doesn’t have to be a gun if guns aren’t your thing. You can carry a stun gun or mace or even a rape whistle. Whatever gives you the confidence that you’ll be capable of using it in an emergency is good to have.

3. Park your car near the entrance under a light.
It’s always best to park near the entrance to the mall or shopping center. If, however, you can’t then you can make sure to park under a light. It’s also best to try to walk out into the dark with other shoppers if you’re alone. You can always ask a security guard to go with you or at least watch you if you feel uncomfortable. There is no reason to risk your safety because you’re afraid to ask for help.

4. Walk or jog with friends.
If you walk or jog for your health then try to remember that your safety is as important and do it with company. If you can’t find anyone to go with then get a dog and take them. Criminals want easy targets and multiple people are not that. Dogs are also good company as no one wants to get bit.

5. Learn to exercise your NO voice.
Most people are kind at heart and criminals prey upon that. If someone wants to attack you they can lure you in with needing your help. If a stranger asks for your help in a secluded place it’s okay to say NO! You can find out if they really need help by offering to call the police or get a guard for them. If they say “never mind” then it wasn’t help they wanted….it was you!

6. Does it seem odd to you?
You have a “gut instinct” for a reason so if something seems odd or feels wrong to you then go with it. If you see a man seated alone in the passenger’s seat of the vehicle parked next to your driver’s side door then don’t go near your door. Enter your car on the passenger side and lock it immediately. Watch them to see if they are watching you and if you really get creeped out just go back to a public place and ask for a guard to walk you out. Nature has armed you with instincts so use them.

7. Surveillance cameras are cheap.
If there have been attacks or thefts in your neighborhood then it’s probably time to get a couple of cameras to put up outside your home. It’s always best to know who is at your door before answering it if you’re alone.