Street intelligence is an important skill and helps you keep yourself safe. Learn about the environment, transportation systems, and emergency services in any place you visit. Avoid dangerous locations and situations, and be alert at all times. Trust your instincts and always take safe action.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Always Be Alert
Step 1. Don't wear headphones when outside
Even though it may seem fun to walk while listening to music, it's best to stay safe. Not being able to hear surrounding sounds makes you vulnerable to accidents or attacks. If you really have to listen to music or other audio while on the road, use only one earphone or play at a low volume.
Step 2. Don't look at your phone while walking
Cell phones can be really annoying sometimes because you might want to check social media, play games, text, make calls, and watch viral videos. Keep your phone in your bag so you can look ahead and concentrate on your surroundings. If you have to check your phone, stop and take a quick look to avoid the risk of an accident, pickpocket or other incident.
Step 3. Learn to recognize potential hazards
Being alert means paying attention to all things that can harm you and then avoiding them. On the way, be aware of potential hazards and watch with a watchful eye. In particular, stay away from:
- Parked van
- Groups of people or groups
- Whoever seems to be hiding his face
Step 4. Trust your instincts
If you feel unsafe or comfortable, leave immediately. Always trust your instincts regardless of whether there is reason to be suspicious or not. If someone's behavior alerts you, excuse yourself and leave immediately so they don't have a chance to persuade you.
Method 2 of 3: Keeping Yourself Safe
Step 1. Carry your phone with you at all times
Make sure that you can communicate or call for help. If your smartphone is too expensive, take a regular phone with you in case of an emergency. If you can, include a list of emergency numbers in your phone for easy access.
Step 2. Go out with friends whenever possible
There is safety in numbers so if possible avoid going alone. Ask a friend or a family member to accompany you for a walk or take care of your outside needs. Friends will make the trip more enjoyable, and reduce the risk of being the target of negative attention.
Step 3. Avoid dark and lonely places
Choose a bright and crowded street. Don't take shortcuts through dark alleys or leafy areas though it will make your journey faster. Avoid places that are quiet after certain hours, such as school grounds, parks, and parking areas.
If you have to go somewhere dark and lonely, go with a friend or talk to someone on the phone while you're there
Step 4. Never go anywhere with strangers
Both children and adults should exercise caution when interacting with strangers. Try to keep at least an arm's distance from people you don't know and don't go near the cars of strangers calling you. Either way, you shouldn't follow a stranger even if he asks for help or says he knows you.
Step 5. Know the location of the nearest "safe place"
Find out where the police station, fire department, or hospital is in case of an emergency. Another wise move is to know where a business is open late just in case you need help at night. Find out if any of your friends live nearby so you can come over to their house if you need help.
- Go to those places if you feel threatened or unsafe.
- If you are in danger and there is no "safe place" in sight, call the police for help.
Step 6. Run and scream if you feel threatened
Don't hesitate to scream and leave an unsafe situation. If you feel threatened, go as soon as possible to the nearest police station, hospital, or place of business for help. Shout as loud as you can to get the attention of people nearby, this will usually discourage the attacker from pursuing you.
Step 7. Learn martial arts
Although considered an art and including a type of sport, martial arts teaches a very important skill. Knowing how to defend yourself in dangerous situations will make you more confident and smart on the road. Find information on martial arts classes in your area from the community center or the internet.
Method 3 of 3: Getting to Know Your Surroundings
Step 1. Take the usual route whenever possible
It's a good idea to choose a familiar road and a familiar bus or train. Choose a route that you know is safe, don't try a road that you don't know. Avoid new routes to work, school, or home.
Step 2. Track trips online
Use Google Maps or GPS on your phone to track your trip to a new place before you leave. Pay attention to the path of cars, pedestrians, or public transportation. Take a screenshot so you can see it again later if the signal weakens.
Step 3. Learn the public transport system well
To be road smart, you need to know how to get to all parts of the city. Knowledge of bus and train lines allows you to get to your destination quickly. You can also choose a route quickly and easily if you suddenly find yourself in a location or situation where you need to leave.
Step 4. Don't deviate from the goal
In general, you should stay at your original destination when you travel. This way, friends and family can know where you are or where you are going. Don't hang around or change plans at the last minute as that could invite unexpected trouble.
