Join the Fun!

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

Final score:

383points

POST

Andy Acceber 2 years ago

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.

102points

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

Final score:

378points

POST

Chich 2 years ago

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

130points

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.

Always look like you know where you're going, even when you don't.

D*ckySchmidt33 , Anubhav Saxena Report

Final score:

349points

POST

Andy Acceber 2 years ago

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.

97points

UnmitigatedPizzaster , Mental Health America (MHA) Report

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.

Final score:

339points

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De Gueb 2 years ago

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.

162points

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.

KoalaDeluxe Report

Final score:

337points

POST

Swan 2 years ago

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

86points

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.

"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."

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

Final score:

322points

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LagoonaBlueColleen 2 years ago

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.

87points

Additional_Energy_25 , Alex Simpson Report

Always check the toilet paper roll before taking a dump.

Final score:

318points

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madbakes 2 years ago

This is street smarts?? Interesting

67points

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

Final score:

306points

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LagoonaBlueColleen 2 years ago

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.

79points

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

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

Final score:

302points

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Hawkmoon 2 years ago

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

97points

#11

There is no shame in running away from a fight.

SuvenPan , Mike Cox Report

Final score:

286points

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Scagsy 2 years ago

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

105points

PresenceElectric69 , Andrea Piacquadio Report

#12

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.

Final score:

277points

POST

Chris Jones 2 years ago

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

134points

#13

Trust your gut. If anyone seems a little too friendly, get away ASAP.

Spartan0618 , Kevin Lee Report

Final score:

261points

POST

lenka 2 years ago

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.

90points

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.

#14

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

sorta_rad Report

Final score:

256points

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Warren Fletcher 2 years ago

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!

101points

#15

Confirm the license plate and make sure you are getting in your proper Uber/Lyft.

RooniesStepMom , Viktor Avdeev Report

Final score:

256points

POST

LagoonaBlueColleen 2 years ago

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

79points

#16

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

Final score:

253points

POST

Ally MacMann 2 years ago

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.

97points

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

Know where the exits are at all times.

CptSmarty , Ashwini Chaudhary Report

Final score:

251points

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Paul C. 2 years ago

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.

87points

Dutch Swimmer Goes Viral For Super Revealing Trunks During 2024 Olympics: “Is This Legal?”

See Also on Bored Panda

Thrill-Seeking Diver Jumps Down Extreme Waterslide, Ignoring The Strict Ban For Women

#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.

UgliestDisability Report

Final score:

251points

POST

Paul C. 2 years ago

....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?

148points

#19

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

Final score:

244points

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Robert Hernandez 2 years ago

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"

85points

#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.

FoolishSilvas Report

Final score:

242points

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Scott Kelly 2 years ago

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

56points

Woman Put A Water Fountain With A Camera In Her Yard, Here Are 24 Photos Of Regular Visitors (New Pics)

See Also on Bored Panda

“Ma’am I Live Here”: Woman Refuses To Back Out Of Driveway, Learns A Lesson The Hard Way

#21

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

Final score:

235points

POST

Sarah 2 years ago

@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.

19points

Intelligent-Parsley7 Report

#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.

Final score:

232points

POST

LagoonaBlueColleen 2 years ago (edited)

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.

81points

#23

You can get into a lot of places by holding a pizza.

SK8PIE , RODNAE Productions Report

Final score:

221points

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Andy Acceber 2 years ago

Or a clipboard. Less fun but I'd argue even more effective.

98points

50 Of The Most Incredible Shots That Were Submitted To The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards

See Also on Bored Panda

French Diver’s “Jewels” In Tight Swimming Trunks Become Talk Of The Town At Olympics

#24

Never count your cash in public even if in singles.

Key_Set_7249 , Sharon McCutcheon Report

Final score:

210points

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Auntriarch 2 years ago

You never count your money while you're sitting at the table 🎶

140points

#25

Your elbow is the strongest joint on your body… take advantage of it when you can.

1515jpeg , Ron Lach Report

Final score:

210points

POST

Austin Hicks 2 years ago (edited)

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.

107points

Economy_Position3069 Report

#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.

Final score:

200points

POST

Iggy 2 years ago

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

82points

#27

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

Final score:

184points

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LagoonaBlueColleen 2 years ago

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.

48points

#28

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

Final score:

183points

POST

Pumpkin Spice 2 years ago

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

37points

Woman Moves Out Of Parents' Home After They Asked Her To Give Her Space To Brother, They Freak Out

See Also on Bored Panda

Mom Leaves $250k Inheritance To Son, Throws A Fit When Daughter Stops Looking After Her

#29

Always get the money upfront.

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

Scallywagstv2 , Alexander Mils Report

Final score:

167points

POST

LagoonaBlueColleen 2 years ago

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.

34points

#30

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

Final score:

159points

POST

LagoonaBlueColleen 2 years ago

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.

69points

Note: this post originally had 72 images. It’s been shortened to the top 30 images based on user votes.

Ieva is a writer at Bored Panda who graduated in Scandinavian studies from Vilnius University. After learning the Swedish language and getting completely lost in the world of Scandinavian mythology, she figured out that translating and writing is what she's passionate about. When not writing, Ieva enjoys making jewelry, going on hikes, reading and drinking coffee.

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Kotryna is a Photo Editor at Bored Panda with a BA in Graphic Design. Before Bored Panda, she worked as a freelance graphic designer and illiustrator. When not editing, she enjoys working with clay, drawing, playing board games and drinking good tea.

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What do you think ?

POST

The Scout 2 years ago

This whole post sets a very dark tone - maybe I am unable to relate because of my "sheltered life" in european suburbs, where nobody carries a gun and crime is on the lowest level since decades. But as paranoid as some of these hacks sound, I understand that they might be necessary in an American context. The yearly murder rate of the USA is a bit over 5 out of 100 000 people, while the same figure for Germany is 0.7. Also gang crime (gangs at all, actually) is basically non-existent here.

31points

Hyde and Seek 2 years ago

7 shootings 3 fatal in my state in the US .

9points

David Brady 2 years ago

This is important for the big cities in the U.S., but they also have lots of suburbs. Where you should reread this article for is if you're traveling to central America, the murder rate is 1 in 500, but tourists are especially targeted.

3points

Sarah Rose 2 years ago

Geez, not just America. Most of South America and the rest of Central. All of Canada, Look in to MMIW (Murdered Missing Indigenous Women). Also large parts of Europe, all of Europe if you're a POC and/or some one of low income. Lets just expand this to, the majority of the world if you're POC, low income, trans/two spirit, or queer. Suburb blindness is no excuse, the data and historical text is out there

3points

Kasey Lemokit 2 years ago (edited)

Yeah I've heard gunshots almost every month this year and we aren't even half way in. Alot of the things here felt like instinct/common sense beyond things to do with scammers

1point

Kellie 2 years ago

Probably because the Polizei are allowed to do their jobs in Germany, while in America their hands are tied by idiotic lawyers and more idiotic laws. We NEED some Polizei action here!

1point

Lola 2 years ago

I’ve been to some places in Europe where I really feared from my life. And no, I don’t mean the ones everyone also talks s**t about. This can happen anywhere, not just in the US.

1point

Legen ( wait for it ) dary 2 years ago

Yes, i was also thinking how this don't apply in Koln,or Lisbon or any where that I've lived or went for a walk.

0points

Gavin Johnson 2 years ago

Hey guys and gals, I find living in a society that’s not straight out of Mad Max is pretty calm. My town (Buxton, Derbyshire) is very tame, there’s a few loons who partake of a bit too much booze of a Friday night and there’s an estate that you’ll do well to avoid wandering around aimlessly after dark but seriously, most humans aren’t hell bent on fighting, mugging, attacking or stealing your car from you. Be more aware of your surroundings and don’t panic about making you life about living in fear, it’ll only drag you down.

23points

A Jones 2 years ago

Yeah, that's true. Not many peeps want to risk getting into a tumble with a stranger. I agree these are good tips to be mindful of, like being aware of where the exit sign is in a building.

5points

DaVo 2 years ago

What kind of dystopia do you all live in??

16points

Becky Samuel 2 years ago

It's called the real world. Most people will end up being the victim of some form of property crime in their life, somewhat fewer a violent crime, but life is never wuite the same afterwards.

30points

Lance d'Boyle 2 years ago

Reminds me the line from MASH. Frank: "The only reason I'm so paranoid is because everyone is out to get me."

12points

Les Izmore 2 years ago

I agree. I live in a town where people don't lock their doors and the biggest threat is wildlife in town during rutting season. My tips would be carry bear spray in winter even though the bears are hibernating. It could be useful if you encounter a cougar or bull elk. Always ensure at least one person is carrying a satellite rescue beacon when more than about a km from town or a road

11points

Heidi 2 years ago

I've lived in multiple countries and some of these are good advice no matter where you go. Let's not pretend the world isn't a dangerous place.

7points

Sarah Rose 2 years ago

It is and has always been called, being a women

7points

Hello of the human species 2 years ago (edited)

What kind of Utopia are YOU living in?

6points

Acidic Lombax 2 years ago

The capitalistic hellscape that is America. Pretty much what this article sums up.

1point

Cindy Irvin 2 years ago

We like to call it the U.S. All these tips could be lifesavers.

0points

Robert Hernandez 2 years ago

She actually lives in the same world I do, sorry about your thunderdome life Tina Turner

-2points

That pigeon -> 2 years ago

This comment has been deleted.

-2points

That pigeon -> 2 years ago

America 🤣😭

-3points

Load More Comments

POST

The Scout 2 years ago

31points

Hyde and Seek 2 years ago

7 shootings 3 fatal in my state in the US .

9points

David Brady 2 years ago

3points

Sarah Rose 2 years ago

3points

Kasey Lemokit 2 years ago (edited)

Yeah I've heard gunshots almost every month this year and we aren't even half way in. Alot of the things here felt like instinct/common sense beyond things to do with scammers

1point

Kellie 2 years ago

Probably because the Polizei are allowed to do their jobs in Germany, while in America their hands are tied by idiotic lawyers and more idiotic laws. We NEED some Polizei action here!

1point

Lola 2 years ago

I’ve been to some places in Europe where I really feared from my life. And no, I don’t mean the ones everyone also talks s**t about. This can happen anywhere, not just in the US.

1point

Legen ( wait for it ) dary 2 years ago

Yes, i was also thinking how this don't apply in Koln,or Lisbon or any where that I've lived or went for a walk.

0points

Gavin Johnson 2 years ago

23points

A Jones 2 years ago

Yeah, that's true. Not many peeps want to risk getting into a tumble with a stranger. I agree these are good tips to be mindful of, like being aware of where the exit sign is in a building.

5points

DaVo 2 years ago

What kind of dystopia do you all live in??

16points

Becky Samuel 2 years ago

It's called the real world. Most people will end up being the victim of some form of property crime in their life, somewhat fewer a violent crime, but life is never wuite the same afterwards.

30points