Street Smarts for Personal Safety

In any self-defense situation, your number one weapon is truly your mind. Always be aware of your surroundings and the activities that are going on around you. If you perceive danger of any kind, your first reaction should be to remove yourself from the situation and to seek safety. If something doesn’t seem right or looks suspicious, trust your instinct and attempt to leave.

Below are a few timeless, street smart tips to remember:

Keep all doors locked and windows up when you are in a car.

Look around, behind, and inside your car before approaching it.

As you leave a safe place or go from car to car, always keep your keys in your hand.

Never park next to any vehicle that you can’t easily see into.

Watch for suspicious, unoccupied vehicles in the parking lot.

In the event of a carjacking, let the perpetrator have the car. Do not put up a struggle for your vehicle or go with them.

In traffic, always be sure to leave enough space between your car and the one in front of you in order to drive away if you feel threatened.

If you find yourself unable to drive away from a dangerous situation, remember that your vehicle can easily be used as an effective weapon.

If jogging or running is your forte, always go with a friend and do so during daylight hours.

Pay attention to your surroundings and if you think you are being followed, whether on foot or in a vehicle, change directions and seek a populated area.