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Being street smart means knowing how to keep yourself safe from strangers. Whether you're just riding your bike in the neighborhood or coming home from a friend's at night, there are things you can do to protect your valuables and even your life.
To learn more about them, a now-deleted Reddit user posted a question on r/AskReddit, saying "What are the best 'street smart' tips you can give?" Within just 3 days, people have submitted hundreds of answers, providing valuable insights to those who might be exposed to dangerous environments.
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#2
If you get arrested, shut the f**k up. Ask for a lawyer, and then shut the f**k up. And when a lawyer shows up, shut the f**k up
YouDontLikeMe? 4 years ago
Good advice. Initially frustrated with this post, but it isn't wrong. Maybe try not to get arrested to begin with.... but I can't argue with it, it is sound advice. Don't talk yourself into something.
#3
Always walk on the side of the road that opposes traffic. This puts distance between you and a car that might be trying to follow you
#4
Trust your gut. Your subconscious can notice details your conscious mind doesn’t. Don’t be afraid of making a scene to keep yourself safe
JLH 4 years ago
I remember driving at night and getting a weird vibe. I pulled into the middle lane to stop. Everyone in the car was confused, and honestly so was I. Seconds later a car flies by with it's lights off, going the wrong direction in the lane I just came from. Almost caused a wreck behind us (fortunately it didn't), but it was so weird. I only remember thinking the lights ahead of us were off a little and that triggered a big warning. Crazy.
#5
I am female, these are tips to make you appear stronger as a female on the street (walking home, nighttime subway, etc):
If you think you are being followed or if you hear somebody behind you - feel free to turn around and look directly at them because it shows you are not afraid to be aware of your surroundings.
By the same measure, don't be afraid (generally) to meet people's eyes. Not in a confrontational "yeah? WHAT!?" sort of way, but in a "I am seeing the people in my world" sort of engaged and aware way.
This shows you do not fear engaging your surroundings.
Again - this is to show you are capable, this is not to provoke or antagonize - that's a different, defensive posture.
Dark_flame 4 years ago
This will also make sure you get a good look at the person and might be able to describe them later if need be
#7
Basically, just be aware of your surroundings. A lack of situational awareness can lead to some bad things.
Gandalf the Pink 4 years ago
I don't know if this counts as street smart or just generally a good rule. Don't be wandering deep forests without situational awareness, don't pilot an airplane without situational awareness.
#8
If someone is attempting to take you to a secondary location by car or something, fight like your life depends on it, because it does. Poke their eyes out. Punch them in the testicles. Bite them, scratch them, anything you can think of, do it to get yourself free. There are no rules when it comes to this situation. Some specific things you can do are screaming 'Fire!' Or 'Help my child!' This will catch more attention than just plain 'Help.'
Biljana Malesevic 4 years ago
This is true. Once they get you into car or van you are in much more difficult situation. Don't let them get you in, use whatever you got!
#9
Use windows as mirrors to see your blind spots or to check behind you. Literally every window you walk past, you should take a quick glance to know what’s going on in your blind spots. You can almost completely get rid of blind spots altogether because of windows.
#10
Don't walk into the street texting, tweeting, meme-ing, etc. I've seen people walking straight into traffic because of this
#11
Cops will take the side of anyone that speaks calmly every time no matter the circumstances
SydneyP 4 years ago
My goodness every single suggestion on here has a snarky comment underneath it. It leads me to one conclusion: there are A LOT of miserable, self conscious, know it alls around. Show some kindness, compassion, and love. It doesn’t hurt you at all. If one doesn’t like or approve of these stories/suggestions then don’t read it. These things could potentially save a life one day. Not everyone thinks the same way so this could help someone. Or you folks can go back to being miserable nitpicks. It’s your choice 🤷🏻♀️
#12
Seriously, you should swing wide around corners, it’s no joke. Five or six ago, I was walking home from the bar. I lived two blocks away. At the time, I was 6'1" and probably weighed 280 pounds. I came around the corner about halfway home and BOOM, I went down. Some kid that didn't even look 18 nailed me in the face with a skateboard. I went down so fast and didn't even know what hit me
#13
If you are a woman in a public place a guy is giving you the creeps walk up to a big dude and just go “John! I can’t believe it’s you!” Then go into a hug and say “let me sit next to you, please.”
Most guys will get what’s going on and go with it and the chances that they themselves are creeps are slim.
Kathryn Baylis 4 years ago (edited)
No. Just go into a well lit crowded place, and alert an employee—-especially a female employee—-to the situation. Believe me, if you come up to me while I’m at work, and tell me someone’s following you, I will let you hide in the employee breakroom, have a trusted make employee walk you out, or let you slip out the back door to get away from them. If they follow you into the building, I will walk by them and make a scene like they touched my ass or something, because I love to embarrass creeps who are relying on their victims being embarrassed and quiet. I’m also 60 now, so it’ll make them look like pervs who grope old ladies (I will laugh my ass off about it afterward). I put up with this s**t for decades myself, and older women were usually my first defenders. Now that the harassment doesn’t happen to me anymore (what a relief), I want to pay that favor forward.
#14
Shadows can also be useful to pay attention to when you’re trying to peek behind you or see if there’s someone around a corner
Matheus Oliveira 4 years ago
This is great! Too bad it doesn’t work on my place’s dead alleys, though.
#15
Walk confident on the street. Thieves often target people who lack confidence, appear nervous or walk irregularly.
Gandalf the Pink 4 years ago
Imagine going through this list in your head, trying to recall all the details, and simultaneously thinking "don't appear nervous, don't appear nervous, don't appear nervous"
#16
DO NOT WEAR HEADPHONES!!!
You make yourself an easy target by making it so even the most clod footed mugger can sneak up on you.
#17
Always get your keys out before you leave a building to go to your car, and have them in hand as you exit it before you go into your house. Not only are they a great weapon if needed, but you aren't distracted while searching for them.
Raven Sheridan 4 years ago
Grip your keys in your fist, with keys sticking out between your fingers. Like a spiked knuckleduster. I've done this a few times. Never needed it thankfully!
#18
Be weary of women who approach you at a bar and immediately try and get you to go to another bar.
Those people are called “pullers” and they are paid to do it.
Miguel justino C 4 years ago
Pullers set up a situation where the man thinks he has a chance with a pretty woman. Then they get robbed by her cohorts.
#19
If you drive an SUV and you're in a parking lot, beware if you get in and notice there's a flyer under the small wiper on your back window. Many people get in and look in the rear view mirror as they start to back out; that's when they see the flyer blocking their view. They pop out to grab it, leaving the engine on and the door open for the second it takes, and that's when someone jumps in and car jacks you.
Raven Sheridan 4 years ago
Be mindful of vans with sliding side doors parked next to your vehicle also. Someone could open the door, pull you in the vehicle, while their accomplice starts the van and drive away with you.
#20
When you're at a bus or train stop at night, with nobody else around, and you hear young guys talking where you know they go in your direction, quickly disappear before you get in their sight.
They may be harmless, but as long as the probability they want to start [things] as soon as they notice you is there, don't take a risk. Learned that the hard way several times.
#21
Avoid gawking around. It screams 'tourist,' which screams 'money on them' and 'no idea what to do in a situation
#22
Walk like you know where you're going, make eye contact with strangers, and don't wear fancy clothes/purses/backpacks when walking around the neighborhood or using public transport
Winston Smith 4 years ago
And dont leave anything with your name in it sitting where people can see it. They call your name in a parking lot and you stop, thinking its someone you know. Then they spring
#23
Putting a chain on your wallet shows a thief exactly where your wallet is and a chain will not stop an experienced thief.
#24
In most cases, dressing and acting like you belong where you are goes a long way to blending in.
Whether it's breaking into an office building or walking by yourself at night, your appearance goes a long way towards making you just another blotch of white nois
#25
Don’t fumble through your pockets.
If you think your being followed go into a store calmly and chat with the workers.
Carry a loose dollar bill or two if your someone that likes to give money to people. Less likely to target the dude that handed a single dollar than the guy who pulled a dollar out of a wallet full of 20’s
#26
Pay attention to your surroundings at all time but mind your own business. Depending on the neighborhood someone screaming for help from an alley isn't really the one in danger
#27
Surround yourself with people who make you feel safe. There’s a difference between feeling comfortable and feeling safe. You could be comfortable with strangers— maybe you just met them and they’re nice. You might not be safe around those people, i.e. would those people help you if someone had a gun to your head, or run for their own safety? Find the people who you know would take a punch to keep you safe
Lea S. 4 years ago
This one is a little weird....I'm supposed to judge my friends and the people I surround myself with on whether or not they'd take a bullet for me? Excuse me, mother with two small children, if we are going to go this movie I need to know you'll throw yourself in front of a bullet for me first.
#28
Realize the difference between someone trying to hurt you and trying rob you. Act accordingly.
Grant Barke 4 years ago
Learn a martial art like origami and turn your assailant into a harmless paper flower.
What do you think ?
Lori Spins 4 years ago
I really enjoyed reading all the men's comments. They really helped. Thanks a lot guys.
Lori Spins 4 years ago
@Hans and you continue on... thanks again for explaining to me my point of my comment, then somehow victimize yourself. Perhaps you do need to take a break.
Hans 4 years ago
Lori: this list has been proposed by BP as tips to EVERYONE. It is right in the title. If this list was to raise awareness for fears that women must face and how to mitigate them, it would be a completely different story. In fact, proposing such a list for everyone marginalizes the problems women face. And not agan, people, accuse me of negativity instead of accepting that you can also be critical about a good cause if they way it is presented has serious flaws...
Lori Spins 4 years ago
Hans, I wouldn't have expected anything less than you mansplaining to me what this article said. Like I didn't just read it.
Hans 4 years ago
@Lori: Isn't "mansplaining" the easiest way out if one realizes that the other side has the better argument? You just refer to men and women as if these were opposed groups in a nature-given battle against each other. This is not my world view. And if you deny men to comment on a posting that addressed men and women, you may accept a comment on that. A comment written in a neutral tone, without any offence. You answer by belitteling me as a human, putting me into one category with those jerks who think they must lecture women. Just because I wrote something, not because of what I wrote. Frankly, I find this humilating and discouraging to the point where I wonder if I should stop posting anything on BP but for series on funny stuff. Obviously, this "Start the discussion" section is not meant for discussion but merely for fortifying one's view of the world.
Draco Malfoy 4 years ago
I don't believe this was mentioned, but if someone is trying to mug you and you can tell that they are not intending to harm or take you, it is best to just give them what they want and report it to the police rather than risk being hurt. I don't know if that's obvious or not, but just in case haha
Daria B 4 years ago (edited)
Here is mine. Don't be shy and don't show kindness when strangers who want to talk about religion knock onto your door, stop you on the street, or invade your space when you're on your own (waiting, reading, relaxing etc.) These people will literally hijack your time and try to get into your private information. They're most likely part of a sect and sects often are a cover for mafia-like shady secret societies. So, when it happens, try to ignore them, insist you're busy, close the door to their face if needed, never leave your door unattended (they will welcome themselves in without your permission). Literally run away from them if you can.
Wolfowl 4 years ago
"Would you like to hear about our lord and savior Jesu-" Wanna join in my goat sacrifice?
Aragorn II Elessar 4 years ago
I’m a Christian and I’m gonna use that. “Yeah, wanna come in? I’m about to sacrifice a pig to Molech”
Joey Marlin 4 years ago
Or have CCTV/video doorbell and see them coming and not bother answering the door. Anyone with a package is fine, anyone with empty hands or a clipboard is usually not worth the bother.
Aunt Messy 4 years ago
Home invaders carry packages so that you'll let them into your house. If someone's carrying something, tell them to leave it on the step.
Joey Marlin 4 years ago
Hi Aunt Messy, yes, thank you I do. I actually have a large parcel safe and the majority of deliveries go in there.. The rest are left on the doorstep if that big.
Haron Walliander 4 years ago
The number one tip is missing. As a man to the other men: Stop harrashing, stalk, rape, assault and kill women. A majority of these tip would be unnecessary if everyone just behave like a human being.
Nerdy 4 years ago
Before I start I am dyslexia so their maybe errors. Kindly point them out and I shall fix them. Ok so if your making a fist put your thumb on the outside. Having it inside could break your thumb. And your elbow is very powerful weapons that hurt with out hurting you to bad. ( I did marital art btw )
Leo Domitrix 4 years ago
My self-defnse instructor agrees with you. He taught us that elbows are awesome! (And mine did put a person down. Oops. I feel horrible, but... Oy.)
Aragorn II Elessar 4 years ago
No wroeris. I’ve hraed mkniag the wrdos mxeid up hpels smoe ppleoe wtih dxisylea raed it mroe eilasy.
Fact Perils 4 years ago
Why were there so many negative comments on this post? It's great advice
Colin Matthews 4 years ago
Take off high heels or stilettos and smack the sharp end on a car window. Breaking glass attracts attention and will set off alarms.
Mascha Claessens 4 years ago
I'm so sorry so many people have to feel unsafe out on the streets! I never feel unsafe outside, and I live in a (for our standards) pretty large city, and not the best neighborhood...
Random Anon 4 years ago
I have some not in this list growing up in a shady (and sometimes violent) neighborhood. Wear fitting shoes and tie your laces, you can't move properly if your shoes are loose. Wear two shirts if possible, you never know when you need to wrap your arm with your shirt to parry metal pipes and machetes. Wear a belt, it's helps put range between you and your attackers. So don't wear pants that drop when you remove said belt. Keep some cash in your wallet, sometimes just giving a druggie everything in your pocket is enough, they need that fix like now.
Legen ( wait for it ) dary 4 years ago
So much haters in this post. How come ? I went to read the comments to have extra advices and found a lot of people calling each other paranoid. What is wrong with people.?
Leo Domitrix 4 years ago
It speaks to how safe they feel, and how safe they want to feel, is my guess. I never felt safe in my life. Is what it is. I don't ask others to live at my lvele of caution (overcaution, in cases). I just promote caution. That's sufficient "evil" to some. BTW, the best advice I ever got on this issue was from my gramps: Always know which way to run to get to safety so you run that way even in a panic.
Aunt Messy 4 years ago
Assholes like Hans like to pretend that no one is in danger, ever, and we should just walk down the dark street singing and dancing. He has never been assaulted, he has never been mugged, and he will never be at risk the way every woman is every day of her life.
Demon Child 4 years ago
Well, I enjoyed reading punished Edwards's comments. even though he hates bp, he still reads every article just to criticise :)
Draco Malfoy 4 years ago
Also, if you ever are abducted, do anything you can to escape the vehicle, because once you are taken to a second drop off, your chances of survival decrease dramatically
Leo Domitrix 4 years ago
This is all good advice, and we should practice it when we feel safe and secure, so ti becomes habit. To those who say it's fear-mongering/pseudo-advice? I heard thsi from my mother, my gramps, my dad, my self-defense instructor ------ and I know one young woman who died b/c she didn't get or heed such "pseudo-advice/fearmongering". Live with a little fear, you live a lot longer.
Hans 4 years ago
Live with less fear, and enjoy life! (You see these general phrases do not lead anywhere. We should rathher discuss how to forge the society we want to life in. But whenever I say something mildly critical here people freak out and put me on a side with those who say women are just fine. It is this black and white thinking that really does harm.)
kalastaja774 4 years ago (edited)
I live in Finland where it's generally speaking really safe, but what I like to do is: put themes from horror movies playing in my earplugs and walk around. I get totally paranoid when walking past strangers in the city with the theme from halloween playing in my ears (pre-covid) . Good times!
friska streeter 2 years ago
What I learned from being a girl ( was in college) in a big city..always trust your instincts, always aware to your surroundings, & when you are faced with a situation turn off the panic mode and act calm and assertive. One time I was in a subway in Chicago. I was with a friend who looked like a 15 y o (though we were college students). She was completely unaware, as for me always look around whenever I am in public place like that. That time, I looked around & locked to a pair of eyes. Chill down my spine. A man behind a pillar. His eyes were like predator's eyes. He saw me and my friend start calling: "Girls..girls!" at us. I noticed his hand was in front of his pants. Curiosity got the best of me. I moved forward saw him 'pleasure' himself. I happened to carry utility knife at all times in my pocket (I was an art student). I pulled it out & saw him with a big grin I looked at him straight as if I say: come closer I'll cut your private. He zipped his pants back, walked out.
Melissa Hollowell 3 years ago
I carry a stun gun (legal in my state) and will set it off from time to time just to let anyone who is curious know I have it.
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Boop le nose 3 years ago
Either I stay inside too much, or I live in a not so crappy neighborhood afterall. You have to wonder where you all live that you have to be this aware every time you set a foot outside... Maybe it's time to move.
Melanie Duncan 4 years ago
I made a remark about the grammar police....nicely informing us it is wary, and not weary. What is wrong with people? It is a serious subject. Streat atakks I meen. Not spelling or grammar. I give kudos to the people sharing tips for the sole reason of perhaps helping another soul. I don't think deviding the sexxes over this issue is helpfal to anyone. Men get attakked all the time as well as the womins. Yes I am doing this deliberately. Sew me
Steve in Denver 4 years ago
If you feel in jeopardy, call someone on your phone and just ask them to listen while you walk. Tell them aloud where you are. Describe who is following you.
Steve in Denver 4 years ago
If you need to be aware of your surroundings DO NOT WEAR HEADPHONES.
Steve in Denver 4 years ago
USE DECOYS! I worked for a woman who carried a handbag with lunch containers and "stuff." Her wallet and importan things were wrapped in gym laundry and in a mesh bag, so it looked like there was nothing worthwhile.
Nguyễn June 4 years ago (edited)
Im not good at English but still try. Here my tips. Make sure there is at least 1 person know where you are, with who, which time you will come back. If you will be late, text or call them to inform that you late for 10/30 mins. Remember all the safe locations on the street, police station, fire station, store or company office ... Best ones is the ones with security guard. Holding the pointy part of your keys out between your finger as a weapon when walking on dark or dangerous place. When feel dangerous and can't run to safe place, then run to a group of people, try to act like you know them, and explain what happened, ask then to take you to where you feel safe, but not your home. When you wear sexy/party clothes, wear another layer outside or wear normal clothes and then change them later when you arrive. Do not wear highheel when walking in dark and dangerour place, but if you have to, remember that it is a weapon, use it. Dont put your address on pet collar, phone number or email is
Nguyễn June 4 years ago
(Cont.) enough. When post a picture online, choose the one that dont show the location and dont tag your location. Do not post a picture show the outside of your house. When in danger, dont just scream help, fight and scream something like this person hit me, i dont know him, please help. If they try to put on an act like you are their daughter/wife or something, scream louder, ask them what is your age, day of birth, major/subject to study... Let the people know they are stranger.
Israel Martinez 4 years ago
I've gotten into the habit of carrying my wallet in my front pocket and actually reducing the size because I felt it was cutting off circulation to my right leg whenever I sat on it on the train or work ... in any case, it also reduces the chance it will get pickpocketed ...
Myrtle Yoma 4 years ago (edited)
This is for young people, women especially. If you’re alone in public, look like you’re going somewhere. Walk confidently and if someone approaches you (often a young man, some in their early twenties, some teenagers) and tells you how beautiful you are, say “I know” (or nothing at all) as you walk away faster. Traffickers will do this in hopes that you’ll stop, and if you say something like “no I’m not” they’ll begin pursuing you by continuously complimenting you and correcting you when you say they’re wrong. Traffickers prey on women who exhibit low self esteem, they’re like sharks and can spot it a mile away. Don’t ever stop and talk to someone who tries to stop you with a compliment. They may be trying to be nice, but they may not be. I suggest you err on the side of caution. Things like this happen in malls a lot because it’s frequented by young women; It’s a traffickers hunting ground.
Hans 4 years ago
Frankly, this is fearmongering. With the current discussion on women's safety, there is justifiction for some tips and hints and more awareness is warranted, but this list suggests that there is deadly danger lurking everywhere at any time for everyone. It isn't. Life isn't completely safe, but if irrational fear queches joy, much is lost.
Leo Domitrix 4 years ago
Caution isn't fear. It is rational to be careful. I have PTSD. I know irrational fear. This list? This isn't it.
Leo Domitrix 4 years ago
it depends where you live, with respect, and women alone are not the only ones at risk. Most of the world lives in fear for good reasons, day or night. And crowds are dangerous. I am glad you do not know the things I have learned in life, but please don't discount that the reality you see is not the one most of the world lives. Thank you.
Leo Domitrix 4 years ago
With respect, @Hans, I was not generalizing. I have situational awareness, and that includes awareness of situations which, in crowds and daylight, are still potentially dangerous. The risk is on a "scale" perhaps, but to accuse me of generalizing seems to be a deliberate overlooking of the *point*. You don't want to continue discussing the dangers that exist? Your right, your choice. Please don't decide those of us who want to continue the discussion are at fault, however, when it is *our* right and choice. Peace out.
Hans 4 years ago
In addition to this: the fears that most of us, including me, have, little correlate with actual dangers. You have fear of bodily harm? As long as you do not entirely stop drinking alcohol, eating red meat, and exercising multiple times a way, the risk of having self-inflicted bodily harm from the lifestyle is much higher than harm from another person. Or a current example: the risk of dying or getting severe side-consequences from COVID is much higher than that of getting serious vaccination side-consequences. Still many people are afraid of the vaccination.
Hans 4 years ago
Well, with an hour to let the downvotes and comments here to sink it, I have come to a conclusion. This will be the last long comment you see from me for a while, and you will in the future find me where there is fun, animals and arts – the roots of BP, and not with these regurgitated social media filter bubbles. I find it truly depressing that everything needs to be black and white. Misogynists vs. feminists. Vegans vs. carnivores. Left vs. right. Society is about consensus. Society is about letting each other speak. Society is not to upvote those who say what you already know and to downvote those who say something that gets you out of your comfort zone. I have a ratio of comments I upvoted and downvoted on BP of maybe 500:1, yet people tell me I am so negative. How many downvotes do they spend? I wish all of you a happy day with many joyful moments, and fewer trouble with whatever you find troublesome, I truly do.
Joey Marlin 4 years ago
I do feel there is something fundamentally wrong with downvoting people who just have a different take, a different opinion. I agree that the article looks like fearmongering but if you pull together a lot of safety information into one place it's going to. Lists like these can help though. Some things may not have been considered by all readers before - we're a wide ranging bunch here on BP. A lot of these are just things we do and not really think that deeply about. Others are more specific to a set of circumstances. We do need the differing opinions, sometimes I have read a comment, thought about it and changed my mind. I think you often speak a lot of sense and wish you well.
Leo Domitrix 4 years ago
I don't come here for votes. Nor do I check my up-downvote ratio. (I didn't know we could, in fact.) I'm trying to share opinions, same as others, and there is, in fact, a range of "gray" often displayed on BP, and it's only some people who decide it's one or the other. Most of us do want to find a consensus, but it's difficult when we're told a concern we find legitimate is just "fearmongering", for example. That is one heck of a judgment. What if there is no consensus in your favor? Does that delegitimize the issue? If you say yes, consider why. If you say no, consider if you act as you speak. I have my black-white issues (violence); I'm sure you have yours. It doesn't preclude consensus *eventually*. But do as you wish, and fair winds at your back.
Aragorn II Elessar 4 years ago
Hans, I do like you. I think you’re a fine enough person, and I don’t understand where the vitriol is coming from.
Wendillon 4 years ago (edited)
It really does depend on where you live bud. If I went out walking after night in my town I'd be fine, but if I drive to the nearest city and take a walk at night I've got about a 50% of being robbed or raped. Heck a girl I went to uni with got raped twice and robbed 4 times in one year. Sometimes it isn't fearmongering...sometimes the world is just a dark and scary place. Edited to add: two of the robberies uni girl was involved in happened in broad daylight on her way to class. It's more likely to happen at night, but it happens during the day.
Treessimontrees 4 years ago
Dummy wallet. If you get robbed give them a dummy wallet with a little cash in it, maybe a AAA card or some business cards, or an *expired* debit card. Keep your real wallet in your other pocket.
Sean Harrison 4 years ago
And here I am, wondering why the younger generations are so panicky and afraid all the time. Articles like this feed the fear.
Gandalf the Pink 4 years ago
Now isn't this just the list of a lifetime to fuel someone's paranoia and nervousness
Lori Spins 4 years ago
I really enjoyed reading all the men's comments. They really helped. Thanks a lot guys.
Lori Spins 4 years ago
@Hans and you continue on... thanks again for explaining to me my point of my comment, then somehow victimize yourself. Perhaps you do need to take a break.
Hans 4 years ago
Lori: this list has been proposed by BP as tips to EVERYONE. It is right in the title. If this list was to raise awareness for fears that women must face and how to mitigate them, it would be a completely different story. In fact, proposing such a list for everyone marginalizes the problems women face. And not agan, people, accuse me of negativity instead of accepting that you can also be critical about a good cause if they way it is presented has serious flaws...
Lori Spins 4 years ago
Hans, I wouldn't have expected anything less than you mansplaining to me what this article said. Like I didn't just read it.
Hans 4 years ago
@Lori: Isn't "mansplaining" the easiest way out if one realizes that the other side has the better argument? You just refer to men and women as if these were opposed groups in a nature-given battle against each other. This is not my world view. And if you deny men to comment on a posting that addressed men and women, you may accept a comment on that. A comment written in a neutral tone, without any offence. You answer by belitteling me as a human, putting me into one category with those jerks who think they must lecture women. Just because I wrote something, not because of what I wrote. Frankly, I find this humilating and discouraging to the point where I wonder if I should stop posting anything on BP but for series on funny stuff. Obviously, this "Start the discussion" section is not meant for discussion but merely for fortifying one's view of the world.
Draco Malfoy 4 years ago
I don't believe this was mentioned, but if someone is trying to mug you and you can tell that they are not intending to harm or take you, it is best to just give them what they want and report it to the police rather than risk being hurt. I don't know if that's obvious or not, but just in case haha
Daria B 4 years ago (edited)
Here is mine. Don't be shy and don't show kindness when strangers who want to talk about religion knock onto your door, stop you on the street, or invade your space when you're on your own (waiting, reading, relaxing etc.) These people will literally hijack your time and try to get into your private information. They're most likely part of a sect and sects often are a cover for mafia-like shady secret societies. So, when it happens, try to ignore them, insist you're busy, close the door to their face if needed, never leave your door unattended (they will welcome themselves in without your permission). Literally run away from them if you can.
Wolfowl 4 years ago
"Would you like to hear about our lord and savior Jesu-" Wanna join in my goat sacrifice?
Aragorn II Elessar 4 years ago
I’m a Christian and I’m gonna use that. “Yeah, wanna come in? I’m about to sacrifice a pig to Molech”
Joey Marlin 4 years ago
Or have CCTV/video doorbell and see them coming and not bother answering the door. Anyone with a package is fine, anyone with empty hands or a clipboard is usually not worth the bother.
Aunt Messy 4 years ago
Home invaders carry packages so that you'll let them into your house. If someone's carrying something, tell them to leave it on the step.
Joey Marlin 4 years ago
Hi Aunt Messy, yes, thank you I do. I actually have a large parcel safe and the majority of deliveries go in there.. The rest are left on the doorstep if that big.
Haron Walliander 4 years ago
The number one tip is missing. As a man to the other men: Stop harrashing, stalk, rape, assault and kill women. A majority of these tip would be unnecessary if everyone just behave like a human being.
Nerdy 4 years ago
Before I start I am dyslexia so their maybe errors. Kindly point them out and I shall fix them. Ok so if your making a fist put your thumb on the outside. Having it inside could break your thumb. And your elbow is very powerful weapons that hurt with out hurting you to bad. ( I did marital art btw )
Leo Domitrix 4 years ago
My self-defnse instructor agrees with you. He taught us that elbows are awesome! (And mine did put a person down. Oops. I feel horrible, but... Oy.)
Aragorn II Elessar 4 years ago
No wroeris. I’ve hraed mkniag the wrdos mxeid up hpels smoe ppleoe wtih dxisylea raed it mroe eilasy.
Fact Perils 4 years ago
Why were there so many negative comments on this post? It's great advice
Colin Matthews 4 years ago
Take off high heels or stilettos and smack the sharp end on a car window. Breaking glass attracts attention and will set off alarms.
Mascha Claessens 4 years ago
I'm so sorry so many people have to feel unsafe out on the streets! I never feel unsafe outside, and I live in a (for our standards) pretty large city, and not the best neighborhood...
Random Anon 4 years ago
I have some not in this list growing up in a shady (and sometimes violent) neighborhood. Wear fitting shoes and tie your laces, you can't move properly if your shoes are loose. Wear two shirts if possible, you never know when you need to wrap your arm with your shirt to parry metal pipes and machetes. Wear a belt, it's helps put range between you and your attackers. So don't wear pants that drop when you remove said belt. Keep some cash in your wallet, sometimes just giving a druggie everything in your pocket is enough, they need that fix like now.
Legen ( wait for it ) dary 4 years ago
So much haters in this post. How come ? I went to read the comments to have extra advices and found a lot of people calling each other paranoid. What is wrong with people.?
Leo Domitrix 4 years ago
It speaks to how safe they feel, and how safe they want to feel, is my guess. I never felt safe in my life. Is what it is. I don't ask others to live at my lvele of caution (overcaution, in cases). I just promote caution. That's sufficient "evil" to some. BTW, the best advice I ever got on this issue was from my gramps: Always know which way to run to get to safety so you run that way even in a panic.
Aunt Messy 4 years ago
Assholes like Hans like to pretend that no one is in danger, ever, and we should just walk down the dark street singing and dancing. He has never been assaulted, he has never been mugged, and he will never be at risk the way every woman is every day of her life.
Demon Child 4 years ago
Well, I enjoyed reading punished Edwards's comments. even though he hates bp, he still reads every article just to criticise :)
Draco Malfoy 4 years ago
Also, if you ever are abducted, do anything you can to escape the vehicle, because once you are taken to a second drop off, your chances of survival decrease dramatically
Leo Domitrix 4 years ago
This is all good advice, and we should practice it when we feel safe and secure, so ti becomes habit. To those who say it's fear-mongering/pseudo-advice? I heard thsi from my mother, my gramps, my dad, my self-defense instructor ------ and I know one young woman who died b/c she didn't get or heed such "pseudo-advice/fearmongering". Live with a little fear, you live a lot longer.
Hans 4 years ago
Live with less fear, and enjoy life! (You see these general phrases do not lead anywhere. We should rathher discuss how to forge the society we want to life in. But whenever I say something mildly critical here people freak out and put me on a side with those who say women are just fine. It is this black and white thinking that really does harm.)
kalastaja774 4 years ago (edited)
I live in Finland where it's generally speaking really safe, but what I like to do is: put themes from horror movies playing in my earplugs and walk around. I get totally paranoid when walking past strangers in the city with the theme from halloween playing in my ears (pre-covid) . Good times!
friska streeter 2 years ago
What I learned from being a girl ( was in college) in a big city..always trust your instincts, always aware to your surroundings, & when you are faced with a situation turn off the panic mode and act calm and assertive. One time I was in a subway in Chicago. I was with a friend who looked like a 15 y o (though we were college students). She was completely unaware, as for me always look around whenever I am in public place like that. That time, I looked around & locked to a pair of eyes. Chill down my spine. A man behind a pillar. His eyes were like predator's eyes. He saw me and my friend start calling: "Girls..girls!" at us. I noticed his hand was in front of his pants. Curiosity got the best of me. I moved forward saw him 'pleasure' himself. I happened to carry utility knife at all times in my pocket (I was an art student). I pulled it out & saw him with a big grin I looked at him straight as if I say: come closer I'll cut your private. He zipped his pants back, walked out.
Melissa Hollowell 3 years ago
I carry a stun gun (legal in my state) and will set it off from time to time just to let anyone who is curious know I have it.
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Boop le nose 3 years ago
Either I stay inside too much, or I live in a not so crappy neighborhood afterall. You have to wonder where you all live that you have to be this aware every time you set a foot outside... Maybe it's time to move.
Melanie Duncan 4 years ago
I made a remark about the grammar police....nicely informing us it is wary, and not weary. What is wrong with people? It is a serious subject. Streat atakks I meen. Not spelling or grammar. I give kudos to the people sharing tips for the sole reason of perhaps helping another soul. I don't think deviding the sexxes over this issue is helpfal to anyone. Men get attakked all the time as well as the womins. Yes I am doing this deliberately. Sew me
Steve in Denver 4 years ago
If you feel in jeopardy, call someone on your phone and just ask them to listen while you walk. Tell them aloud where you are. Describe who is following you.
Steve in Denver 4 years ago
If you need to be aware of your surroundings DO NOT WEAR HEADPHONES.
Steve in Denver 4 years ago
USE DECOYS! I worked for a woman who carried a handbag with lunch containers and "stuff." Her wallet and importan things were wrapped in gym laundry and in a mesh bag, so it looked like there was nothing worthwhile.
Nguyễn June 4 years ago (edited)
Im not good at English but still try. Here my tips. Make sure there is at least 1 person know where you are, with who, which time you will come back. If you will be late, text or call them to inform that you late for 10/30 mins. Remember all the safe locations on the street, police station, fire station, store or company office ... Best ones is the ones with security guard. Holding the pointy part of your keys out between your finger as a weapon when walking on dark or dangerous place. When feel dangerous and can't run to safe place, then run to a group of people, try to act like you know them, and explain what happened, ask then to take you to where you feel safe, but not your home. When you wear sexy/party clothes, wear another layer outside or wear normal clothes and then change them later when you arrive. Do not wear highheel when walking in dark and dangerour place, but if you have to, remember that it is a weapon, use it. Dont put your address on pet collar, phone number or email is
Nguyễn June 4 years ago
(Cont.) enough. When post a picture online, choose the one that dont show the location and dont tag your location. Do not post a picture show the outside of your house. When in danger, dont just scream help, fight and scream something like this person hit me, i dont know him, please help. If they try to put on an act like you are their daughter/wife or something, scream louder, ask them what is your age, day of birth, major/subject to study... Let the people know they are stranger.
Israel Martinez 4 years ago
I've gotten into the habit of carrying my wallet in my front pocket and actually reducing the size because I felt it was cutting off circulation to my right leg whenever I sat on it on the train or work ... in any case, it also reduces the chance it will get pickpocketed ...
Myrtle Yoma 4 years ago (edited)
This is for young people, women especially. If you’re alone in public, look like you’re going somewhere. Walk confidently and if someone approaches you (often a young man, some in their early twenties, some teenagers) and tells you how beautiful you are, say “I know” (or nothing at all) as you walk away faster. Traffickers will do this in hopes that you’ll stop, and if you say something like “no I’m not” they’ll begin pursuing you by continuously complimenting you and correcting you when you say they’re wrong. Traffickers prey on women who exhibit low self esteem, they’re like sharks and can spot it a mile away. Don’t ever stop and talk to someone who tries to stop you with a compliment. They may be trying to be nice, but they may not be. I suggest you err on the side of caution. Things like this happen in malls a lot because it’s frequented by young women; It’s a traffickers hunting ground.
Hans 4 years ago
Frankly, this is fearmongering. With the current discussion on women's safety, there is justifiction for some tips and hints and more awareness is warranted, but this list suggests that there is deadly danger lurking everywhere at any time for everyone. It isn't. Life isn't completely safe, but if irrational fear queches joy, much is lost.
Leo Domitrix 4 years ago
Caution isn't fear. It is rational to be careful. I have PTSD. I know irrational fear. This list? This isn't it.
Leo Domitrix 4 years ago
it depends where you live, with respect, and women alone are not the only ones at risk. Most of the world lives in fear for good reasons, day or night. And crowds are dangerous. I am glad you do not know the things I have learned in life, but please don't discount that the reality you see is not the one most of the world lives. Thank you.
Leo Domitrix 4 years ago
With respect, @Hans, I was not generalizing. I have situational awareness, and that includes awareness of situations which, in crowds and daylight, are still potentially dangerous. The risk is on a "scale" perhaps, but to accuse me of generalizing seems to be a deliberate overlooking of the *point*. You don't want to continue discussing the dangers that exist? Your right, your choice. Please don't decide those of us who want to continue the discussion are at fault, however, when it is *our* right and choice. Peace out.
Hans 4 years ago
In addition to this: the fears that most of us, including me, have, little correlate with actual dangers. You have fear of bodily harm? As long as you do not entirely stop drinking alcohol, eating red meat, and exercising multiple times a way, the risk of having self-inflicted bodily harm from the lifestyle is much higher than harm from another person. Or a current example: the risk of dying or getting severe side-consequences from COVID is much higher than that of getting serious vaccination side-consequences. Still many people are afraid of the vaccination.
Hans 4 years ago
Well, with an hour to let the downvotes and comments here to sink it, I have come to a conclusion. This will be the last long comment you see from me for a while, and you will in the future find me where there is fun, animals and arts – the roots of BP, and not with these regurgitated social media filter bubbles. I find it truly depressing that everything needs to be black and white. Misogynists vs. feminists. Vegans vs. carnivores. Left vs. right. Society is about consensus. Society is about letting each other speak. Society is not to upvote those who say what you already know and to downvote those who say something that gets you out of your comfort zone. I have a ratio of comments I upvoted and downvoted on BP of maybe 500:1, yet people tell me I am so negative. How many downvotes do they spend? I wish all of you a happy day with many joyful moments, and fewer trouble with whatever you find troublesome, I truly do.
Joey Marlin 4 years ago
I do feel there is something fundamentally wrong with downvoting people who just have a different take, a different opinion. I agree that the article looks like fearmongering but if you pull together a lot of safety information into one place it's going to. Lists like these can help though. Some things may not have been considered by all readers before - we're a wide ranging bunch here on BP. A lot of these are just things we do and not really think that deeply about. Others are more specific to a set of circumstances. We do need the differing opinions, sometimes I have read a comment, thought about it and changed my mind. I think you often speak a lot of sense and wish you well.
Leo Domitrix 4 years ago
I don't come here for votes. Nor do I check my up-downvote ratio. (I didn't know we could, in fact.) I'm trying to share opinions, same as others, and there is, in fact, a range of "gray" often displayed on BP, and it's only some people who decide it's one or the other. Most of us do want to find a consensus, but it's difficult when we're told a concern we find legitimate is just "fearmongering", for example. That is one heck of a judgment. What if there is no consensus in your favor? Does that delegitimize the issue? If you say yes, consider why. If you say no, consider if you act as you speak. I have my black-white issues (violence); I'm sure you have yours. It doesn't preclude consensus *eventually*. But do as you wish, and fair winds at your back.
Aragorn II Elessar 4 years ago
Hans, I do like you. I think you’re a fine enough person, and I don’t understand where the vitriol is coming from.
Wendillon 4 years ago (edited)
It really does depend on where you live bud. If I went out walking after night in my town I'd be fine, but if I drive to the nearest city and take a walk at night I've got about a 50% of being robbed or raped. Heck a girl I went to uni with got raped twice and robbed 4 times in one year. Sometimes it isn't fearmongering...sometimes the world is just a dark and scary place. Edited to add: two of the robberies uni girl was involved in happened in broad daylight on her way to class. It's more likely to happen at night, but it happens during the day.
Treessimontrees 4 years ago
Dummy wallet. If you get robbed give them a dummy wallet with a little cash in it, maybe a AAA card or some business cards, or an *expired* debit card. Keep your real wallet in your other pocket.
Sean Harrison 4 years ago
And here I am, wondering why the younger generations are so panicky and afraid all the time. Articles like this feed the fear.
Gandalf the Pink 4 years ago
Now isn't this just the list of a lifetime to fuel someone's paranoia and nervousness
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