Most of the time, the best self-defense is being aware of your surroundings and not becoming a victim of a crime or assault. Here are some tips to avoid getting involved in an unpleasant situation:
1. Look where you are going.
Before stepping out of the car or walking outside, take a quick look if anything sketchy is happening out there, especially at night. Always walk with a friend if you're not sure. Check what is happening inside a gas station or building before entering as well. If the interior looks unusually dark or mysterious, don't go inside.
2. Keep your headphones out of your ears when outside.
Whenever you are running or walking, try to keep those earbuds or headphones away from your ears. Your ears might be useful for detecting strange noises or footsteps of someone following you. Turn off your music so you can be prepared for any incoming threats.
3. Cover your drink with your hand.
Make sure to always keep your drink in front of you at all times where you can watch it. Make sure you are holding your drink yourself and not placing it on a random table or handing it off to someone else. In addition. it helps to keep your hand over the cup or keep a finger over the bottle. Don't give any entrance to your drink. This prevents slipping a knock out or date rape drug into the beverage.
4. Be careful on social media.
Adjust your privacy settings accordingly to avoid getting your private information leaked out. And avoid posting anything personal on the media as well.
5. Walk in a non-uniform pattern.
If the street or place you are walking in seems sketchy, walk in a zigzag pattern and walk wide around building corners to avoid getting jumped. And don't use stairs while you can. Most violent scenes or sights of crime usually happen on stairways. If there is an elevator, use it. But remember to check the elevator first as well before entering.
6. Never open the door to night cries or noises.
There have been cases where victims would often hear a crying baby outside or leaking water/ broken water taps, only to find someone else at the door. Basically, if you think something is going on outside, call 911 instead of going out there by yourself. Many turn on water facets or pipes to full blast so you can hear the noise and come outside to investigate and then get attacked.
7. Before approaching your car, look around your car.
Make sure that there is no one standing or sitting somewhere near your car or in the car beside yours. If you suspect something, always take a friend with you or call the police.
