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Humans are cautious creatures who avoid ending up in sketchy situations at all costs. But when you find yourself walking in a dimly lit alley or riding the subway late at night, you can't help but feel your senses go on high alert, wondering about things that could potentially save your valuables or even your life.

Reddit user lofisky wanted to find out what they are, so they made a post on Ask Reddit: "People with 'street smarts', what is your most street tip?" Within just a few days, thousands of people took the opportunity to share their precious wisdom and help people ensure their safety even in the most dire situations.

Below, Bored Panda wrapped up some useful pieces of advice and put them all in one place for you to read. So take out your notebook, grab a pen, and write down a thing or two on how to protect yourself against threats. And if you still feel the need for some more street tips, take a look at our previous posts right here and here!

#1

The most practical self-defence item you can own is a very high-powered flashlight, especially one with a strobe function.

Drawing a weapon will always escalate a situation, and may cause any aggressor to fight with lethal force. You also cannot use a weapon pre-emptively except in very clear self-defense scenarios. You can't shoot someone just because they look shifty. You also cannot legally carry them in many places.

None of this applies to a flashlight. You can legally and inconspicuously carry it anywhere. You can use it without provocation without legal or moral issue.

It is also highly effective. It is incredibly difficult to hit or stab someone who is shining a 1000 lumen strobe light in your face. It can be almost impossible to properly see where that person is, and it will be painful to even look at them.

As a bonus, flashlights are just super handy tools to have in day-to-day life.

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Gavin Johnson
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

4 D cell Maglites are incredibly tough bits of kit. If you have to use it as a weapon they are heavy because of the batteries and made of aluminium so they don’t bend, you don’t get up in a hurry after someone has accidentally hit you with one. For information purposes obviously 😜 Don’t hit people mmm’kay?

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#2

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips If you ever find yourself homeless in a big city but want to keep clean because of job/hygiene standards/whatever, look into gyms in the area. Many of them have very low-cost memberships or even free trials for a certain amount of time. Head on in, get your shower, brush your teeth, and get yourself all cleaned up.

Hope it helps anyone who needs it as much as it helped me.

keldondonovan , Danielle Cerullo Report

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Andy Acceber
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ditto community centers, YMCAs, public college rec centers, etc. Gyms don't have to exclusively be fancy places that require a membership. Lots of the more public options offer cheap day passes.

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#3

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips If you're uncomfortable with your surroundings, leave.

Your unconscious is often more aware of your surroundings than you'd think. If something you can't figure out is telling you to go, listen to it.

Martin_Aurelius , Thiago Miranda Report

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Chich
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Used to tell my fire crews this. If something does not feel right, back the hell out.

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We managed to get in touch with the creator of this thread, lofisky, who was kind enough to have a little chat with us. The user told Bored Panda they often post random questions on Ask Reddit to simply discover new things. This time, they were curious to learn about different tips that could potentially help in a tough situation.

Well, it’s better to be safe than sorry, isn’t it? That’s why so many people seem eager to discover as many helpful tidbits of information as they possibly can. Like being confident and pretending to always be aware of where you're going. Or making sure you know where the exit is at all times. And let’s not forget about confirming the license plate before getting on your ride.

#4

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Always look like you know where you're going, even when you don't.

D*ckySchmidt33 , Anubhav Saxena Report

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Andy Acceber
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's amazing what projecting the right amount of confidence can get you. I used to work at a bar. I wouldn't have admitted it then, but I carded way more based on someone's confidence than on how old they looked. I suck at estimating ages. If you hemmed and hawwed when deciding on a drink, asked a dumb question, acted jittery, or had too much bravado, I would have carded you. If you were confident but not overly so and had a normal conversation, I probably wouldn't have asked for ID.

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#5

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips If you are feeling unsafe, find the biggest friendliest person and act like you know them, chances are they will understand, help you out and you'll end up making a friend.

Had a group of young men once nod in a targeting manner towards me in a dangerous subway station in SF, the big dude I sat next to, and acted like I knew, was understanding when I explained why I was sitting next to him, we ended up chatting during the subway ride too. Very cool guy.

UnmitigatedPizzaster , Mental Health America (MHA) Report

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De Gueb
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That happened to me at a pub in Mallorca, 3 young girls asked to hang around me to keep the guys away. It was one of the girls birthday and some of the dudes wouldn´t leave them alone. I went only to see a live band but ended up staying till they shut.

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#6

A red traffic light is just a "traffic suggestion" to some people.

Always keep an eye out at intersections for idiots running a red light.

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Swan
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

always beware of other people always have a margin of their 'mistakes' ...because it will save your life

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As of today, the thread has amassed more than 59.6K upvotes and 28.6K comments. Plenty of Redditors with "street smarts" shared their precious insights on how to survive in the urban jungle. "I didn’t expect that much attention at all! I’m very glad that so many people took the time to answer my question," the user said.

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"I learned that it’s important to be knowledgeable and always be ready for any unexpected situations that may occur at any given time. It was interesting to see what advice different people have to give."

#7

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips If someone asks you for help. Like 'my car won't start' or, really anything. Don't help them but offer to call someone for them.

I learned this ~10 years ago. I had to do a thing in the bad side of town once a week early in the morning. I would get there ~5:00 a.m., they opened at 6:00 but I wanted to get in and out and leave.

There were a few other regulars at that time for the same reason. One I befriended was a lady named Kim.

We were both there one morning. A couple of guys pulled up in their car ~100' from us. They got out, lifted the hood made some noise, called us over to help them. They were having car troubles.

Kim told me to stay where I was, I shrugged and said 'OK'. She walks over, they talk a few minutes, they drive off and she comes back.

Kim says "They didn't have car trouble, they were going to rob us".

I say "Seriously? No s**t. Why did they drive off then"?

Kim says "I showed them the gun in my hand". Then she showed me the gun in her hand.

I said "Oh. OK"

Sighwtfman , Marc St Report

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would say trust your gut and know the area. I live in a region where it's common for people to break down and all they need is jumper cables. Someone is usually willing to help because that's what we do. We don't want to hear of someone freezing to death waiting for help for what could be way too long in our climate.

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#8

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Always check the toilet paper roll before taking a dump.

Additional_Energy_25 , Alex Simpson Report

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#9

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Ladies, never leave your drink unattended and don't accept drinks from strangers when you didn't see the drink being made.

watch_over_me , Michael Discenza Report

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Some establishments don't let you take your drink to the washroom. You can leave it with the servers and they'll keep it safe behind the counter.

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This thread serves as proof that some people have minds full of knowledge on how to survive and stay safe while living an urban life. So if you’re living in a quiet and calm neighborhood or come from a distant suburb, there are certain things you need to learn to avoid getting scammed (or worse!) out there in the real world.

According to lofisky, everyone should have a fraction of such knowledge. "I believe having at least a decent amount of 'street smarts' is essential, so you are prepared for any unexpected events that happen in life, and know how to handle potentially dangerous situations."

#10

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips If someone approaching you says “hey man, I ain’t gonna rob you” - they’re probably gonna try to rob you.

ChefChopNSlice , Airam Dato-on Report

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Hawkmoon
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And be extra careful if he looks like a tax agent. But you have little chance of escaping him anyway.

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#11

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips There is no shame in running away from a fight.

SuvenPan , Mike Cox Report

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Scagsy
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Don't run so fast that you end up faceplanting like I did when I was mugged by a pack of feral youths. Here's the timeline if you're interested: 1: got attacked 2: ran away 3: faceplanted 4: got attacked again 5: A & E minus my wallet and watch 6: hotel minibar

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#12

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips If someone starts to loudly state that they’ve lost their wallet or phone, don’t obviously or immediately go to check on yours in your bag or pocket. It’s a common pickpocket technique to get people to show the pickpockets where their stuff is.

PresenceElectric69 , Andrea Piacquadio Report

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Chris Jones
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Or better, sadly, they say they have FOUND a wallet or phone and so you check.

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#13

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Trust your gut. If anyone seems a little too friendly, get away ASAP.

Spartan0618 , Kevin Lee Report

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lenka
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Always trust you instincts. This should be number one. Your subconscious picks up hundreds of cues and notices things that you don't consciously take in but which result in a feeling of unease - even if you have no idea why. You may never figure out the 'why' but trusting your instincts and perhaps feeling a little silly for it is way better than potential alternatives.

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When asked why so many people are always ready to give safety advice, the user believes that most have answered the question through their own backgrounds. They seem to know when to avoid potentially negative situations that even with a favorable outcome might have alarming consequences.

A streetwise person can read between the lines, they know who you can trust, are skilled in the art of self-defense, and have a perfectly working inner BS radar. "Perhaps they have been through tough times in life and have enough life experience to share their advice with everyone else," lofisky added.

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#14

Lock your doors as soon as you’re in a car.

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Warren Fletcher
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's great when cars automatically unlock when you put them in park. Like, could you not? You don't know what kind of area I'm in!

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#15

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Confirm the license plate and make sure you are getting in your proper Uber/Lyft.

RooniesStepMom , Viktor Avdeev Report

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is a good idea for taxis, too. The license plate and cab number. Get their name, too.

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#16

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips If someone is asking you for help, but you need to follow them around the corner to help them... don't. Politely say you're late to a meeting and keep walking.

Dad_of_the_year , Vlad Smolyakov Report

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Ally MacMann
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't even think you need to (or should) make excuses. A polite but confident "No. I won't do that" would probably work just as well.

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The creator of this thread would like to advise you to stay curious. "It’s important to listen to everyone, whoever they are, good or bad. You can always learn from them. Even if it’s just social media like Reddit, never stop learning something new," they concluded.

#17

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Know where the exits are at all times.

CptSmarty , Ashwini Chaudhary Report

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Paul C.
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is especially important when you go to your hotel room for the first night. Check where the fire escapes are. At 3 in the morning with an alarm going off it could save your life.

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#18

Men don't ask women for help with moving or fixing things, they ask other men. If a man asks a woman for help moving something, he's probably a creep & you should get out of there as quickly as possible.

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Paul C.
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

....and don't help them lift a settee into the back of a van, even if they have a broken arm! No wait, did I dream that?

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#19

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips If you're in the hood and you see kids playing outside, you're probably safe. If there are a lot of people outside but no kids, be super cautious and walk with a purpose. If it's empty or only teenagers/young adults, get out asap.

DryBicycle , Filip Mroz Report

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Robert Hernandez
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you're in the hood wouldn't you know this? I know my city and have never said "Damn where am I, oh s**t...I'm in the hood"

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#20

If you ever get pulled over at night, immediately turn on all your lights inside your car. In my experience, it tends to relieve whatever tension the officer may have since they can see you a little bit more clearly. Plus it's better than having a flashlight shined in your face.

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Scott Kelly
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And roll all of your windows down! It shows you have nothing to hide. This goes for any time of the day.

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#21

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Always put something between yourself and the ground, even if it's just a piece of cardboard. Especially on asphalt, it absorbs heat and it will feel like it's sucking the life out of you

Landminan , Airam Dato-on Report

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Sarah
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

@Hannah Davenport . Privilege is not the same thing as not understanding something. If you don't know something, you should ask. Which is what they did. Get off your high horse and don't judge people who ask genuine questions.

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#22

If you see the car for too long and it’s bothering you? Do something. Spin that block. Drive illogically. If you spin that block, it will have to follow you in an illogical path. It takes a minute to do this and determine a tail. Don’t ever stop, just drive a longer and more illogical route to determine if you’re being followed. If you’re being followed? Don’t go home. Drive to a hospital ER entrance. There’s always security there. They’re used to crazy. And immediate medical attention if something is bad. And cameras. Lots of them. And all cops can get there without looking it up.

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Police stations is a better idea than going to the emergency department where they have real medical emergency to focus on. You can even go to a convenience store, like 7/11. Since they're prone to crimes I'm pretty sure they have police services on speed dial. They also have a lot of cameras, lights and police typically know where they are, too.

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#23

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips You can get into a lot of places by holding a pizza.

SK8PIE , RODNAE Productions Report

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#24

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Never count your cash in public even if in singles.

Key_Set_7249 , Sharon McCutcheon Report

#25

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Your elbow is the strongest joint on your body… take advantage of it when you can.

1515jpeg , Ron Lach Report

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Austin Hicks
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It only takes about 5lbs of pressure on someone's neck to make them go unconscious, which only takes about 8 seconds, and your elbow can easily apply over 70lbs of pressure with the right hold.

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#26

Well, If you're traveling, never randomly stop on the sidewalk to consult a map, or appear visibly lost. Duck into a coffee shop or something to orient yourself.

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Iggy
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is where phones can really help. While looking at the map on the phone, chuckle a little as if reading a funny text.

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#27

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips If you see something potentially illegal going on don't look directly at them. Especially if you know that you're not going to be reporting it to the police.

Chandlery , Jack O'Hara Report

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you see someone who's watching you and you notice them, and then they say "Can I help you?" with a grin, don't stop or say anything. Just keep going and when you're out of sight report it to police non-emergency. It's much easier to talk to non-emergency police, especially if the information is vague or unsure.

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#28

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips If an attractive woman asks for directions, look for her partner behind you or going into your car to take what they can grab.

Typical vacation area scam.

obxtalldude , petr sidorov Report

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Pumpkin Spice
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My bisexual self and my pansexual girlfriend knowing that we aren't immune to scams: oh no. My aro friends: oh yes.

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#29

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Always get the money upfront.

People who want to pay later probably won't and then things can get messy.

Scallywagstv2 , Alexander Mils Report

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Get them to pay half now and half later. At least they'll have something invested and if they're not satisfied with the outcome you can leave it as a half off discount and try again, if they want you to.

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#30

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Exercise your legs. Although in a bad situation they'll probably feel like wet noodles, if needed you'll be able to run. It will also show in everyday life that you are capable of moving effortlessly. Most people are sluggish and it's not hard to notice.

dranaei , Pixabay Report

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Some people can't help it. My knees seem to be giving me trouble lately. In that case you have to think smart and avoid areas with high crime rates. Some people can't help that, either. Have someone with you. Make sure your making friends and acquaintances with the good people in the neighbourhood, and the staff at the places you frequent. People are more likely to watch out for those they know the names of.

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#31

If there’s an emergency in a crowded place, find your own exit. Don’t blindly follow the crowd. Many people in an emergency try to go out the same way they came in, and it can lead to jammed doorways/pile-ups that can trap you. Property damage doesn’t matter in that moment—Break windows if you can, drywall can be broken through fairly easily too, bust out that b**ch like the Kool-Aid man.

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I find people are telling others that are panicking to calm down and then they just go about their business. There's a social phenomena that occurs. Something to do with crowd influence behaviour? I can't remember the term. There could be a real emergency, if no one else is reacting and the one person who knows better does, people will just go with the crowd than listen to the one person.

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#32

I travel quite a lot, so some things I have realized.

If you find a gas station, and all the windows are covered by ads, so much they can't see outside. Well, that is because they don't want to be a witness.

If you stop seeing sidewalks, a lack of street light walking signs, or no more stoplights...that is not where you need to be.

Always keep a change of clothes and some water in your car. Never know when you need it.

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Zoe's Mom
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Agree with water but also what I call 'hiking food'; trail mix, jerkey..anything that can survive being in a car. If you have pets that you take with you, make sure you have food/water for them as well. A weather proof blanket is a must.

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#33

If a motorcycle with 2 people on it slows down near you RUN esp in South and Central America.

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Pumpkin Spice
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

India too. If two men go by on a motorcycle and snatch your chunni, get your older brother to beat them up before his job interview. (Bonus points if you get the reference.)

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#34

Beware of people who have nothing to lose, and people who have everything to lose.

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Davo gifman
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well Swan it's still good advice. I've followed it for years, and I'll continue to follow it...hopefully for many more years. An their's nothing racist about self preservation.

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#35

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Another tip: get to know your local homeless people. If you live in a city and regularly walk past the same homeless people, stop and say hi once in a while. Just have a brief chat and give them some change. Even a smile helps. Believe me, these guys know EVERYTHING about what happens on that block. If you're ever in trouble, they'll help you out if you've been friendly, or they may just pretend they didn't see a thing. They can also help watch your car - for instance if someone dings it and drives off, they might even get the plate for you. View the street as their home; when walking on the street, you're walking through their living room. They can be excellent hosts.

This doesn't apply if you're traveling in a new city. Not worth befriending a homeless guy if you're only there for like 2 days.

PrettyRelationship96 , Nathan Dumlao Report

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#36

Don't act like a victim. Walk tall and keep your head up.

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Swan
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

😑😔🥺........ yeh..don't be a victime good advice_____we're trying!

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#37

If you're on foot, know the outs. Watch behind houses for fences. Assume anyone that chases you knows the area better than you. If you feel like you're being watched, you are. Stop moving, stop breathing, and listen again. Nobody wants to attack an aware victim. If you hold your breath on foot, in about 45 seconds, you can hear everything. Your ears adjust. Cannot do it while walking and blood is pumping in your ears. You can hear people breathing well over ten feet away if you wait long enough.

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#38

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Blend in. Everywhere. Even if you’re faking it. And, if you’re faking it, get out as soon as you inconspicuously can.

blig_slay , Wendy Wei Report

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#39

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Wear shorts under ur pants keep your valuables in ur shorts

Edit: I always wear sweats I put my hand in my pants to get to my shorts, I think this is the equivalent of women taking money out of their boob

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#40

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Walk on the road if you’re in a real shady neighborhood and it’s late at night. Not in traffic but away from alleyway entrances.

ChicagoPhan , Darran Shen Report

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There's more light on the road. Street lights are really to help drivers see. Not so much for pedestrian safety.

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#41

Fighting is not like the movies. Many people won't fight fair even. You never know what a person’s got in their pockets like a knife or any deadly weapon for that matter. Also seen people go back to their car and get a piece

Also on the other side of the coin, you shouldn’t pull out a weapon unless you absolutely know you gonna do some damage cause that same weapon can be pulled on you quick

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In Canada, people are likely to use bear spray, knives, billiard balls in socks, and machetes as weapons. The best way to avoid these is don't stop for random people and don't argue with anything they say. Just ignore them. Let them shout back but whatever you do, don't engage.

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#42

When you're getting ice cream ask for one scoop first and then act like you changed your mind and ask for another. Typically they will make that first scoop larger than if you would have asked for two initially.

This also seems to work in places like Chipotle.

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V
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've worked at both places and scoop sizes are actually based on weight, you can ask for more, but if u do it like this we get in trouble for over portioning.

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#43

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Listen always and speak only when you need to. People don't know when to shut up.

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LagoonaBlueColleen
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If someone refuses to allow others equal speaking time, cuts people off and always goes on about themselves, it's an indication they may be a narcissist. Run.

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#44

Never leave the house in shoes you can't run/fight in. Flip flops are for the gym shower.

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What is with all this "prepare to fight or flee"? How often do people get into these kinds of situations?

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#45

Final reiteration that your smooth little reptilian hindbrain has evolved running from creatures on this planet with big a*s fangs and camouflage, and venom, and claws. Lots of claws. You, as a person, are a little animal… and your personality and identity are an evolutionary add-on that is pretty damn amazing. The cauliflower part of your brain is in charge, but you have an old brain down there underneath it. When the little smooth part of your brain says “Uh, run!” DO IT, NOW. You’re here because THE HINDBRAIN DID ITS DAMN JOB for millions of years. It’s not capable of expressing itself in letters or numbers. It’s stupid. It’s the heebie-jeebies part of your brain. It’s very old. It misfires a lot. It will also give you a fair warning.

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#46

If someone goes to hand you something don’t take it by default. People's muscle reaction is to take something they are handed.

I fell for that once in Hollywood, dude then tried to fleece me for money and would not take the item back. I dropped it on the ground and walked away.

Live and learn

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#47

Dress like where you are going. It doesn’t have to be exactly like them, just enough to not look too out of place. Also, pretend in your head that you have been there before and feel relaxed even if it’s forced because nervous people attract too much attention.

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#48

You have best friends you trust and share your secrets with, and your best friends also have best friends who they trust and share your secrets with.

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oreo
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Trusting the right people at the right times can save your life

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#49

In crowded areas, carry bags, purses, and packages in front of you rather than behind you.

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#50

When someone is staring at you looking for a fight, glance and keep them in your peripheral vision, but otherwise don't maintain direct eye contact except for a brief moment. This exudes confidence yet acknowledged their threat.

Do not keep staring long at them (challenge look), or actually avert eye contact (signing you as vulnerable prey).

Stand tall and at if carrying one bag, or even bags, put that bag in your weaker, nondominant hand so when you're under sudden attack, you could react faster. DO NOT BURDEN YOUR DOMINANT HAND IN GROCERIES/PURSE/WHATEVER in a high-risk area. It's better to carry two bags in your non-dominant hand than to have each hand carry a bag.

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LagoonaBlueColleen
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Don't put your hair up in a ponytail, either. It can tell the other person you're preparing to fight. I had that happen once and it took me by shock because I was just genuinely wanting to fix a strand that had gotten loose.

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#51

if you think a violent situation is about to happen, clench your teeth, put your tongue against the roof of your mouth, and drop your chin closer to your chest. never ever ever put keys in between your fingers, and take your hands out of your pockets. and stand staggered, not with feet together.

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Mtownmick
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The one time I almost got into a fight, my buddy who was from LA told me to raise my leg like I was going to kick them in the crotch and instead kick their knee and keep kicking. Seemed like good advice. I instead started talking and the other party realized we were harmless.

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#52

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Never show your watch, wallet, or phone in areas known for pickpockets.

Also don't touch your pockets if you see warning signs, because a good thief will be watching to see which pocket your valuables are in.

And when approached by someone on the street be mindful of who else is watching and what is behind you. Try and keep everything in front of you and don't be afraid to shout and swear at them to get attention.

If someone puts a gun or knife in your face don't be a hero.

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you carry a purse, have a wallet and don't keep it in your purse. Put a decoy wallet in your purse. Keep your real wallet in a pocket. Buy clothes with pockets, ladies. They exist. Bring your jeans or other apparel to a tailor and have them make real pockets. Or learn to do it yourself. Another thing I do is put my purse around me, have it in the front. Then put a cardigan or jacket on. I make sure I get one with deep pockets. I'll have my hands in my pockets so no one can just slip their hands in them. Never put anything in your back pocket.

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#53

This one may be a bit specific to NYC, but if the subway car is empty on an otherwise busy day, there's probably a very good reason.

Also related, if someone's being crazy on the train, don't engage or respond unless you absolutely have no other choice.

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Iggy
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Get off the train and wait for the next one. Better late than sorry.

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#55

If you are on public transportation, and people are exhibiting anti-social behavior (smoking, playing music on their speakers, etc) don't say anything. These people know what they are doing and are most likely looking for a fight. They also likely have very little to lose. Ignore it, and if it bothers you enough, get off or move to the next stop.

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you have asthma or any other type of respiratory condition jot down or take a picture of the bus route and number, and screen shot the time you got on the bus, ALWAYS. It's very hard to speak when your lungs feel like collapsing and are burning. Don't expect the bus driver to take direct action. They go through enough with attacks and assaults. Some of them are afraid of people. Start introducing yourself and make sure the driver sees you and sees you have paid the full fare.

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#56

If you’re in a bad neighborhood, for the love of god, stay in well-lit areas. The shortcut through the alley will cost you more than the time it saves.

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Robert Hernandez
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

But if you find yourself in danger run to the basement or roof and hide behind the chainsaws and yell "is someone there?"

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#57

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips This one isn’t so much protection, but when you’re walking and you know how people do that little shuffle thing when they walk towards each other because you don’t know which way the people are going. Well if you maintain a line of sight in a direction, not looking into the eyes of people coming towards you, people will just move out of your way. No awkward little dance.

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Scagsy
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2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I absolutely hate people that do this. I have mobility issues and use a walking aid so I am prone to losing my balance quite easily. If some self-important muppet decides that they are just gonna plough straight through like Moses, because of sh!tty advice like this or because they are glued to their phone, it makes life that much harder. It is so rude as well. Expecting people to move because 'Princess Bethany' is coming through. Ugh.

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#58

Don't raise your voice with strangers and always be the last to speak. you don't know if these guys are wired properly or not

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Swan
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

(you don't know about "wire")not only with strangers, but everyone; accointances 'friends' family parents..people

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#59

Always have two or three people in your circle that you trust, and make sure y’all have a code word/signal. one that you can use casually because it’s harmless without context, but it’ll let your people know that something is up

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#60

When you stop your car, always make sure you have enough room in front of you for an escape route. It's impossible sometimes, but do the best you can.

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Becky Samuel
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This should be common practice, I never understand why people are so fixated on getting right up to each other's bumpers. If the car ahead of me breaks down, or worse, if they deliberately stop so that they can jack my car, I want to have room to drive around wherever possible. I have saved myself a few dents before from people who either can't pull forward on a hill without rolling backwards or who have accidentally selected reverse.

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#61

Even in daylight, watch for places where the streetlights have been broken. Bad people, who like to hide in the dark shoot out streetlights. If it's night, and you see a television running in an open window, that's a kid that might be a lookout. You'll have the feeling you've been made.

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you hear fireworks going off on random night frequently in rough neighbourhoods, this is to distract people when guns are being fired. Used to happen a lot in one such neighbourhood. People would be shooting fireworks so often that when you're sure you've heard a gunshot the first thing your told and second thing asked by police is "It's probably fireworks. Are you sure it's not fireworks you heard?" By the time you're off the phone you're questioning the sound you heard and the only thing police are gonna do is drive around and that's it.

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#62

People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being "Street Smart", Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips Look with your eyes, not your head.

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lenka
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is weird advice. I look with my eyes, my head, my ears, my skin and even my nose. All senses provide valuable input especially when in strange or uncertain environment

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#63

Always walk with traffic coming towards you.

Always know that most people are out for themselves only.

If you get mugged, remember what the thief is wearing (watches jewelry) and tell the police it was yours, so if they catch them, you'll be a winner.

Stand up for yourself, even if you're shaking at the core.

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#64

If you’re selling something on something like facebook marketplace, you have to be very careful. you’re going to be meeting someone you’ve probably never met in your life. meet in a public place, like a bank, a police station, anywhere public etc. if they’re paying in cash and it’s expensive, count the money FIRST, and make sure it’s REAL, before giving your product to them. anyone who isn’t trying to rob you will be fine with this, especially if you’re in a public place like a bank lobby area.
-card skimmers are everywhere. always make sure by pulling the card reader block to see if it’s real or not.

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I always do this, and always accept only cash. The average person won't have a card reader. Never meet at the bank, especially at an ATM. Always somewhere very public and a common meeting ground like Starbucks or Tim Hortons or some other place that has customers sitting and people watching.

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#65

Never yell back at a group of guys verbally harassing you. Just keep walking. Don’t make a face, don’t change your walking pace, and keep going as they’re not there.

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't understand why a group of people bother people they don't know just because they're walking by. Never understood this behaviour but it's a common problem.

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#66

Avoid the loudest person in the room.

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Gavin Johnson
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Avoid people. Urgh people, horrid things that spoil pretty much everything they touch.

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#67

If you are involved in a confrontation pay attention to the hands. 2 things:

If they reach into their pocket and/or under their shirt you are likely going to be hit with something, stabbed, or shot.

if they are tucking their hands by their hamstring and/or clenching their first while looking you up and down you’re about to get punched.

Run or take the fight to them because if either one of these things are happening you’re already the underdog.

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Janus Preez
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Or maybe they are just taking out a mobile phone just before you start attacking them

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#68

If you see the same car twice get into a shop or store. If someone asks you for the time keep your hand on your wallet and only slightly pull your pocket out the check the time. If you are in a shady neighborhood remove anything that could be seen as a symbol for a rival gang, hats, jackets, stuff like that, it’s unlucky but not worth the risk.

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Never wear a matching Adidas tracksuit in some areas. Gangs use sports clothes as gang attire. At least they used to. And bandannas.

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#69

Drive in front of a place once before landing there. Get your eyes on it.

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#70

When a hustler asks "I bet I know where you got those shoes" The answer is always on your feet.

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#71

Cars: All headlights on vehicles are fingerprints. Every time you look in a rearview mirror, imprint the headlights in your short-term memory. Try to think of what kind of car it is. Learn what headlights and taillights go with what type of car. Make it a game. Keep it as a background thought. It will trigger you when the third turn happens and the headlights are the same.

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

These days, car headlights are blinding. You're going to damage your eyes if you look at those lights for long. It's like staring at the sun.

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#72

When you drive to a place in the dark that you've never been to, drive in with the windows down and the radio off. Turn off the car. Count to thirty, and listen. On a good night, without air conditioners buzzing, you can hear everything. Then, get out of the car.

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LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NEVER drive with the windows down. Keep them up and make sure the doors are locked. Get of the areas that are making you uncomfortable. NEVER get out of the car.

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