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The world isn’t all sunshine, rainbows, and cuddly pandas. Neither is it as scary and on the verge of collapse as some news channels might tell you. Either way, we think that most of you might agree that our safety and the safety of our loved ones should be our top priority.

We shouldn’t live in fear that something bad is bound to happen when we least expect it, however at the same time, we can’t be naive and think that accidents don’t happen or that bad people don’t exist. So we shouldn’t scoff when someone shares some advice on how to stay safe.

Redditor u/directinLA asked people to open up about the safety tips they think absolutely everyone should know, and they were more than happy to share their pearls of wisdom. From the fundamentally basic to the surprisingly genius, you’ll find their best safety tips below. Scroll down and make sure you have a notepad, dear Pandas.

Bored Panda reached out to the author of the thread, redditor u/directinLA, to get their opinion on safety, as well as which tips they personally found to be the most important.

"Among the many replies I got, I think one from u/CharlieMike12 was most helpful. Not to take away from all the other responses, but as a firefighter the tips shared were relevant to everyday safety, and I think that is the epitome of a safety tip that is useful to know," u/directinLA said.

"As far as most poignant responses, u/LamarB said, 'It is better to correct an unsafe friend than to bury one.' We all have to look out for each other regardless of our differences. Everyone is living a life that is meaningful to someone. So if any of these tips actually save a life, I can retire my account successfully!" they stressed how important community is in helping keep each other safe. Scroll down for our full interview.

#1

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know For women especially. If someone is making you uncomfortable or just giving off weird/creepy vibes, you never should worry about being "rude." You don't have to be nice/polite, your safety comes first.

PurpleDreamer28 , Nadine Shaabana Report

Bored Panda was interested in getting u/directinLA's opinion on the role that local communities play in helping keep people safe. Here's what they had to say: "I believe community is a very important thing, as we all live in our own respective bubbles. We rely on each other to keep each other safe daily, whether it be driving a car, crossing a street, trusting our children in a school system, or even wearing a mask. Without our communities, what are we?" they mused.

"Community is so important because it gives us all a sort of tribe to be able to lean on when things become tough sometimes. Whether it be from family, friends, or even kind strangers, we all rely on help because ultimately we are doing our part to try to lead a fulfilling life."

#2

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know One for knowing what to do when encountering bears:

When it’s brown, lie down. Brown bears are pretty aggressive. The first thing to do is put your arms above your head and stand as firm as possible to make yourself look big. When the brown bear is still coming to you, don’t run! Lie down, curled in a ball with you backpack still on; it’ll protect you. The bear will paw you, see that you’re no longer food and move along.

If it’s black, fight back. Black bears are less aggressive and can easily be fought back. Just like with brown bears, make yourself look as big as you possibly can. It’ll see you as a threat and move away.

If it’s white, say goodnight. Polar bears are the biggest species of bears on earth. If you’re running away from one, throw your pack to the side; polar bears have a short attention span and will go to the parcel you threw to the side. If that doesn’t work, and the polar bear is still gaining on you, there’s unfortunately nothing left but to accept Christ as your Lord and Savior because it’ll un-alive you in minutes.

Fast_Enthusiasm_6655 , Zdeněk Macháček Report

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#3

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know Firefighter here;

Sleep with your doors shut at night (helps prevent fire spread/smoke inhalation)

Be able to crawl, blindfolded, out of every room in your house.

Make sure everyone in your home knows what to do in the event of a fire. Where to meet afterwards, etc.

If you have kids, explain to them that firefighters may look ‘scary’ in full turnout gear, but they can not be afraid of us.

Friendly reminder while I have your attention; check the batteries in your smoke detector. They truly are life savers.

CharlieMike12 , Pixabay Report

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

Have smoke detectors. As it's not yet everywhere obligatory, you can get combined ones for carbon monoxide too. I know it costs some money, but trust me, burned house, loss of life or family mamber costs a lot more.

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The author of the thread also opened up about what inspired them to ask the question on r/AskReddit. "Being on Reddit, you see lots of videos of people getting injured, whether it be comically or seriously. I've seen my fair share of trampoline-related injury videos to want to put out the message that they are not a safe thing to play with, and could be rather dangerous. Then I wondered what other safety gems exist in life, so I created a prompt that could best be answered by people from all walks of life," they told Bored Panda.

"When you make these questions it's usually meant as a little bit of an exercise in boredom since you have an idea in your head and want to see what other people think about that topic. In this case, I figured it could be useful. Never do you imagine these things taking off the way they do. It got to the point where I was getting more replies than I had time to read them, so I had to turn off notifications!"

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Very recently, Bored Panda spoke to psychologist and wellbeing consultant Lee Chambers from the UK about our need for safety and resilience to traumatic experiences.

"As human beings, we have a desire for certainty and routine that keeps us feeling safe and able to plan what lies ahead in an organized manner. When unpredictable situations or accidents impact us, it can be traumatic, and we will likely feel a sense of disappointment, frustration, and loss," he told us.

#4

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know If you ever find yourself in possession of a firearm:

1. All guns are loaded, even if you just unloaded it.

2. Do not point the gun at anything you’re not willing to shoot kill/destroy.

3. Do not put your finger on the trigger unless you are trying to fire the weapon at that moment.

gumboandgrits21 Report

#5

Don't merge back in front of a semi truck until you can see where its steer (front) tires meet the pavement, then keep going.

Truckers don't leave big gaps in front of themselves in traffic out of the kindness of their hearts. They do it because trucks are hard to stop even with powerful air brakes, and the kinetic energy in an 80,000 truck/load combo traveling at 65mph would turn you into a fine pink mist if they hit you.

WAY too many drivers don't know how to act around semis, at their mortal peril.

Source: am trucker

The206Uber Report

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

Many truckers around here flash their lights to signal that you can merge now.

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

I flash my lights when being passed by a truck so that he knows he is clear. They appreciate it.

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susan-herbert345 avatar
SoozeeQ
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's ridiculous how many car drivers do not leave enough space when merging back in front of a truck (or any car for that matter). If I'm overtaking, I always floor it way past them (with the indicator on, if I want to merge) giving them plenty of time to notice, and act accordingly before merging back in front of them. (And if somebody is overtaking me, I try to slow down a little, if it's safe to do so, to allow them space to pass). Many years ago, a family friend used to drive semi trailers for a major supermarket along the Eastern Seaboard of Australia (think Melbourne to Brisbane), which is 1,682 km or 1,045 miles. He saw it so many times when drivers would try to overtake and cut in front of him. It is *really* difficult to stop a fully-laden semi trailer, especially if they are travelling at the speed limit (100-120 kph or 62-74mph, as the OP states above).

seanette avatar
Seanette Blaylock
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My favorite uncle is a retired trucker. Some of the most colorful language I've ever heard coming out of his mouth was when he was talking about how stupidly some car drivers behave around trucks.

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james_fox1984 avatar
Foxxy (The Original)
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In Australia majority of accidents involving a truck is actually caused by the car driver. My hubby has had so many close calls when people have pulled out front of him. Trucks takea while to slow down.

dolly_ofthecowboy avatar
Dolly_of TheCowboy
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

True that. Never, ever, ever pull in front of a truck on a downhill or just before a set of traffic lights or an intersection otherwise you are likely to become a hood ornament/grill smear. if you need to merge into a lane in front of a truck make sure you leave more room than you think and try to do it on an uphill or when they are starting to move off as you will at least be a little faster to get going

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

I remember one semi having a sign that says “if you can’t see me I can’t see you” meaning, if you can’t see his mirrors from behind, you’re too close and if you can’t see the driver in your review mirror, you’re too close. It’s a rule I follow diligently.

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

Trucker here. This is 100% true. Give it space, give yourself space, don’t assume you’ve been seen, and add a little more space just to be safe. You only get one shot at this life, you are incredibly valuable, that value diminishes rapidly when you tussle with a truck, they normally win and it’s rarely pretty. Drive defensively not aggressively, you are looking after yourself, not rushing to an appointment or to see a film, give yourself 20% more time than you think you need, don’t blame others for your lack of preparation, drive like your life matters because it does.

sareaesque668 avatar
Sareaesque
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Piece of advice I was given to wait until you can see a vehicle's headlights in your rear-view before merging in front of them.

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

The scariest moment of my life was when my motorcycle tire blew right after I merged in front of a semi. Luckily I was able to get to the shoulder on a flat tire without getting flattened myself.

angelab_1 avatar
Angela B
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm sorry but "would turn you into a fine pink mist" made me chuckle. My apologies to anyone that has lost a loved one in a vehicle accident.

robynbowns avatar
Robyn Bowns
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My uncle was the trucker. It kept him out of his rig for a long time getting over it. He was a victim of that utterly stupid insurance scam back in the day. Idiots were merely speedbumps. I can see why you'd chuckle, but it's no joke 😰

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rain197240 avatar
Rain WhiteBuffalo
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My rule of passing a truck is that I do not merge back into their lane until I can see the entire front end of the truck (and tires) in my rearview mirror.

simon_37 avatar
Trees
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Don't match their speed either and site alongside one.

steveramaekers avatar
Steve Ramaekers
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Also don’t get too close if stopping behind them on an incline (like at a light). They will roll back before moving forward. If you’ve ever driven a manual you can understand this just on a bigger scale

sandervermeer1 avatar
Sander
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

General rule of thumb: only merge when you can see the bottom side of the car you just passed in your rear view mirror.

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

And when they pass you, briefly flash your headlights at them to let them know they are safe to change lanes.

kimberlybertram6 avatar
Kimberly Bertram
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is true for rv drivers also- don’t pull out in front of any big rig- they can’t just slam on the brakes to accommodate you!

sousafan2 avatar
Thomas Ewing
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Don't drive your car like a skateboard and expect the semi you just cut off to be able to do the same. Duh!

davogifman avatar
Davo gifman
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My dad use to flash his lights if a Simi truck was signaling wanting in his lane. An they would always flash their taillights in appreciation. I've always done the same thing ever since I've been driving; it just seemed like a courteous thing to do. Keep on trucking! Drivers you are appreciated very much. 😎👍

camlynn1234 avatar
Miss Frankfurter
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I flash my lights for truckers to let them know they're safe to merge in front of me. If you are going to need to slow down or stop to make a turn let them know well ahead of time so they can start to slow down well ahead of time.

robeldin avatar
Rob Eldin
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"A fine pink mist" paints a horrifying mental picture. And brings the point home, for sure!

gn4awalk avatar
julie son
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I find it very frustrating how many people in general don't leave enough breaking distance between cars when driving, or get frustrated with me that I do. Even when I maintain the speed of the line I'm in, drivers behind me often get annoyed by the gap I leave in front of me, and I just wish I had a neon sign that I can turn on to tell them that just because you are in a hurry, the laws of physics don't change.

michelleotto_1 avatar
Mattewis88
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

On long stretches of narrow roads, truckers will often also signal you with their emergency lights when it is safe to overtake them. (Because you cant see what's in front of them or how far.) I like how they have developed these nonverbal comms to help people out. As a head-on collision survivor, (that wasn't my fault) I am terrified of overtaking or even coming too close to the middle line so I appreciate the extra help.

alli_bill avatar
Mrs S
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I believe in giving big trucks all the room they need.

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L.a. Williams
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So true ex use to draft them if I feel asleep on trips I would wake up terrified.

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

Goes for 20 ton buses too. Source: am bus driver. You idiots constantly cut me off.

swizdom2 avatar
Susan Widomski
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And if you let them in front of you in your lane, they will be grateful and usually wave.

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

Nothing taught me better how to drive propperly than vids from Russian dashcam. You see so many preventable accidents, especially with and around Trucks.

f_h_ avatar
F. H.
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Truckers leave big gaps in front of themselves in traffic? What? Where? In Utopia?

mikebeck avatar
Mike Beck
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't merge in front of an 18 wheeler unless I see his front bumper in my rear-view and am traveling faster than he is. If our speed is similar then I wait even longer.

heather_powell avatar
Heather Powell
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Most trucks I see any more don't even leave a car length even on the highway. Accidents waiting to happen. They tailgate just as bad as cars, but can't stop as fast

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

And semis have huge blind spots, be careful driving next to them and try to avoid it if possible :)

seanette avatar
Seanette Blaylock
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I always really hate being alongside a truck, and do get clear ASAP. I can't help thinking about how small and squishable my car is if the nice truck driver doesn't realize I'm there or if something malfunctions on either vehicle to screw up steering.

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

one of my cousin's truck drivers turned a truck over , with several thousand pounds of live cattle in the trailer . It was horrible .At least fifteen of the poor things were killed an the others had to be put down . At least the driver survived .

confred78 avatar
Marlowe Fitzpatrik
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"Truckers don't leave big gaps in front of themselves out of the kindness of their heart" - sadly, in my experience, the big gap is often less than one car's length :-( Then again - they're not alone in that madness.

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

A fine pink mist is a very pretty description if it weren't for the subject 😐

daqadoodles_1 avatar
Debbie
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Same for oldtimers... my dad has one and it barely goes 80 km/h, and has old fashioned breaks.

leodomitrix avatar
Leo Domitrix
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you can't see them in their rear-view mirror, they can't see you in the same mirror. ---- source: Cousin who is a trucker.

boredpanda_48 avatar
ZAPanda
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Can anyone explain why it is called a "semi"? We just call them trucks here. Anything smaller we call a lorry or a van or in the case of a machoman penisenlarger, aka "truck", or what the Ozzies call a "ute", we call a "bakkie" (small bucket, container).

cecilyholland167 avatar
Cecily Holland
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Semi trailer is a single. Multiple is a road train. Dump truck with a trailer is a B double. Ute is short for utility vehicle. Dunno why just is. The truck itself is a Prime Mover aka USA tractor. Here a tractor is something that ploughs paddocks. Beauty of country language quirks

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

I'm a big fan of flashing head beams to alert the trucker that it's safe for them to merge in front of me.

maureenmatthew73 avatar
Maureen Matthew
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you are following a truck stay back. My rule is, if you can't see their side mirrors, they can't see you!

stevemoss avatar
Stephen Moss
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

@Xottel yeah I've been on a bunch of TX roadtrips and the truckers do communicate with signals and even warn you and other truckers of upcoming speed traps. There's some cool dudes on the road.

beklah324 avatar
Beks Czar
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A mirror everywhere. If you can see the driver in the side mirror, they can see you. But also try to pass fast. Who wants to travel next to a semi?..... Also something my grandma always taught me. When you stop, at a light, stop sign, whatever. Make sure you can see the back tires on pavement. You've given yourself a little more room if you are hit from behind and you won't go flying into whatever is in front of you so hard.

crackerbit avatar
Amanda Hunter
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The same goes for trucks hauling Horse trailers, they're so heavy they can't stop quickly.

j_riley avatar
J. Riley
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My ex-husband was a trucker & this was his #1 complaint of "civilians".

apwozniak avatar
Andrew Wozniak
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I learned to wait until you could see both headlights in the center mirror.

tereselopresti avatar
Terese LoPresti
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is a good rule that also also applies to pickup trucks hauling trailers. A pickup truck hauling even a 2.horse trailer cannot stop in time. I have had some very scary moments. Thankfully with no accidents occurring.

mereuphoni avatar
Sara Attar
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Once a truck chased us in full on rain on the highway. We had a kid in the car who was sleeping and it was the middle of the night. It was so scarry, I was shaking afterwards. My then husband managed to take an exit going full speed and the truck couldn't follow. It was like something out of a Spielberg's movie 😱

patrickthemediocre avatar
Patrick the Mediocre
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They also flash their lights to other trucks to let them know there is a police car in the area. Some cars flash trucks for the same reason.

joshlangford avatar
Josh Langford
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I give truckies at least 6-7 seconds of indication before attempting to merge, they have so much to look out for, a few extra seconds may save your life

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

Its called the lug nut game in Ohio.Who ever has the most lugnuts ALWATS wins

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

My side-view mirrors are adjusted so I can see vehicles that are coming up behind me. If I can see a vehicle in the mirror, I wait to merge until I've gotten far enough ahead.

ammill avatar
AM Mill
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And please don’t be in front of a big rig when they have to descend from hilly or mountainous areas! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen cars not letting trucks go downhill freely! Air horns were used if you’re lucky!!

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

I live in the Portland area and I see truckers get cut off all the time. It scares me. I don't know how you don't realize that something that big doesn't have the momentum to stop on a dime.

bcb668 avatar
Dawn Thomas-Cameron
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't merge back until I can see the full front of the semi in my rear view mirror.

samirezler avatar
Sami Rezler
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am very careful around semis here. Roads on CO are bad, winds are bad. It's all bad. You can catch a random wind shear in the middle of BFE and veer into the next lane. I always give extra room when possible.

kimswhiterabbit46 avatar
Kimberly Wilburn
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was a passenger in a semi , I will tell you they can see everything in your car please keep that in mind. This is correct about not being able to stop never underestimate the power of a semi truck, the story about the man who initially got 110 years because he added to some cars and people died recently although he did end up getting only 10 years but he still has to live with knowing people died. My point is respect the ability and power of semis.

mendeznadia525 avatar
Niccolo P.
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My mom taught me that if you are about to pass a trucker, stay in the other lane for at least 15 seconds before getting in front of the trucker, that would at least give you a somewhat decent space between you and them

katieskelton_5 avatar
Lady Vader
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've always found the most courteous, considerate drivers are the big wagon drivers, especially on motorways 😁

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

You absolutely have to give the massive vehicle respect, even if the occasional driver at the wheel is being a prick by going 65-70 mph (or God help you even faster) when there isn't a single legal US speed limit over 55 - even CA is 55 max on I-15 when it's 70 for others. Lately most truck drivers on a flat road is hauling ass at 65+ and I just am surprised that anyone would get in front of one and risk death by out-of-control reckless driver. That being said, there's really no reason for any of us to be careless behind the wheel.

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

Living in a fairly busy city with highway though the middle, truckers fly through way too fast making me angry that they don't respect the fact that they need to slow down on our highways inside the city where everyday people have to use to get everywhere especially during work hours. . Our very busy highway is 50mh and always backed up not able to be expanded as our city has started bursting at the seams. The highway has lots of dangerous curves and hills. I wish some truckers too us regular drivers into account.

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

And for God sake, if you decide to pull into another Lane because a semi truck is going to slow, pass it with intention. Don't f around and hang out in the late next to it. Either get in front of it or get behind it never drive alongside it.

leonlewis avatar
Leon Lewis
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's completely inadequate spacing. Better advice is, "don't merge back into the lane until you can see pavement in your rearview mirror that equals the length of your vehicle". You would see where their wheels meet the road well before that.

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

I have seen so many dashcam videos of people brake checking trucks that I have lost hope for people having common sense...

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Grumble O'Pug
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I drove 84 in Oregon this winter. people were insanely close to the myriad of trucks on the road. And it was icy and dangerous.l

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

Trucks rule the road. I stay clear and let them in/ drop back whenever possible. You’ll never see me get in their way. My life and their life is more important than missing an exit.

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Harry Hoogenhout
Community Member
2 years ago

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#6

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know A falling knife has no handle.

Billbapoker , Markus Spiske Report

"It is important however that we embrace the fact that the world can be unpredictable and uncertain, and become more tolerant of this being a reality,” the psychologist told Bored Panda.

“Understanding that things are sometimes out of our control helps us to accept that not everything goes to plan, and accept when things happen to us that are negative. This acceptance allows us to embrace the change and difference, and manage our expectations so we can become more resilient to the ups and downs that all our lives lead."

#7

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know Never EVER sneak up behind a horse, EVER

VeeSquibbles , Helena Lopes Report

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

Just in case you didn't know, horses kick backwards. Cows kick forwards, so you can safely be behind one, but you can cop yourself a nasty kick if they don't like how you are milking them, especially if they're bulls. :oD

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#8

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know Worked in a machine shop. I was told the top three rules were these: 1) Know where the emergency stop button is on every machine. 2) If you wouldn't touch it with your penis, don't touch it with your finger. 3) If something falls, let it hit the floor (don't try to catch anything falling).

theunknowngoat , Andrew Haimerl (andrewnef) Report

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

That falling rule was so hard for me to stop, I played soccer a lot so whenever things fall I try to catch it.

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#9

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know As a life long Floridian, I see this all the time here, and else where in the news. In the event of a disaster, stay the [hell] away from downed power lines!! Don’t walk along the street with them, don’t drive your car over them, don’t take selfies with them. They’re thunder noodles and have been known to kill.

kowog1 , Andre Moura Report

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According to the expert, we can grow from our struggles, but this requires acceptance and taking ownership.

"Post-traumatic growth isn't always simple to explain or utilize, but often the adversity we face can create a precedent for what we can overcome, help us to see what we need to be grateful for, and give us an understanding of the support we do have. A big part of opening the door to grow from our struggles is finding acceptance and taking ownership over what you can control and finding healthy ways to express the negative emotion that comes with challenges that test us," he said.

#10

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know When walking down the street with a one-shoulder bag, keep it on the building side of your body — not the side on which people pass you. It makes the bag harder to slash/snatch.

If asked for the time on the street, don't check your phone. Check your watch, but do so by lifting your wrist to within your field of view - don't look down at your wrist. If you don't have a watch, then say you don't know the time.

Be cautious if a person asks you to look at something, like "that car behind you".

Collectively these tips will help avoid some basic mugging tricks.

ByEthanFox , Godisable Jacob Report

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

Wear a crossbody bag, or else put the bag on your shoulder underneath your coat/jacket. If you are a tourist and taking lots of pictures, wear your phone on a lanyard around your neck, not loose in your hand.

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#11

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know Don't say, 'Someone call an ambulance.' Do it yourself, or directly tell one person to do it.

Don't move someone injured unless there is an imminent danger to the victim.

Puncture wounds, the puncture object acts as a cork, leave it in until medics arrive and let them deal with it.

Learn cpr for adults and children, the same goes for choking techniques like heimlich.

nobenap5 , Pavel Danilyuk Report

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

Yeah, if you have the capacity to be a take charge person, it is definitely necessary to give specific instructions to specific people. It's amazing how a lot of people will just go blank and do nothing in an emergency.

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#12

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know If you are the passenger, never put your feet on the dash. With or without airbags, don’t do it. Level 1 trauma hospital worker here. Seen a fatality of a passenger who had their legs on the dash during the collision. It literally shoved their (broken) leg back into them and their own leg bone (shard) pierced their chest cavity and heart.

xray_anonymous , Ljupche Vasilev Report

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

Image of X-RAY from a person with feet on the dash in a SIMPLE collision. Just image a hard one... pies-salpi...153270.jpg pies-salpicadero-dgt-multa-02_1440x655c-61fa52e153270.jpg

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"Using journaling and talking about how I felt played a significant part in my recovery when I had to learn to walk again, and gave me the space to grow to become mentally stronger as a result. It is also important to reflect on all the hurdles you've overcome, so you can see what skills and lessons you've learned to apply in the future, and adversity often helps us to see what really matters, and gets us closer to knowing our values and purpose,” Lee said.

#13

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know Wear safety glasses when working. Wear safety gloves when working. Wear safety boots when working. Do not make excuses — one mistake can cost you your finger, eye, toe.

bstefanovic , Matilda Wormwood Report

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

And! Depending where you live: they won’t pay a dime if your superior told you to wear them, gave you equipment to wear, and you willingly didn’t.

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#14

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know “It is better to correct an unsafe friend than to bury one”

LamarB , michal dziekonski Report

#15

Be gross if you’re being kidnapped. Men don’t like gross girls. Force yourself to throw up, rip your hair out, pee yourself or defecate. Try to fight back and scratch as hard as you can. Leaving physical evidence everywhere at the very least helps identify your body and get him prosecuted for the crime. Not to be morbid but. If it looks like you’re about to die then make sure you leave as much evidence as you possibly can.

DoloresHaze7 Report

#16

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know Turn your music down. I promise you will not like tinnitus.

caananball , Dylann Hendricks | 딜란 Report

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

Just want to add though that this is not the only way to get tinnitus, just the most common. Seemingly unrelated injury, stress, and illness can also cause it. Stating because so many people are vile k*bheads to people who say they have tinnitus

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#17

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know Around any body of water:

- Feet first first time - never dive unless you know how deep the water is.

- Drowning looks like climbing a ladder, and it's silent.

- If you get into a dangerous current swim perpendicular to it.

- If you're in water over your head, or in a dangerous current, flip, float, and follow.

tremynci , eberhard grossgasteig Report

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

Great advice, all of it. Stunning picture. Would make a great jigsaw puzzle.

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#18

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know In these cold times. Don’t drive wearing anything you couldn’t walk a half mile in.

46692 , Emily Gouker Report

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

Or keep a pair of old trainers in the trunk along with a raincoat and flashlight.

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#19

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know NEVER mix cleaning products.

jtho78 , Kelly Sikkema Report

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

And NEVER EVER store cleaning products, or garage products, in "re-purposed" food packages. You don't want to her someone say "urgh, this lemonade tastes weird". (at least not for the reason it being nail polish remover)

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#20

The really bad people who want to do really bad things look for weakness. They test and probe.

It's awful that the best we can hope for is that we avoid what some other person might be victimized with. But that's nature.

Pay attention to your surroundings. Watch to see if anyone is watching you. Any stranger that offers you something or has a question that doesn't feel right, that's the moment to keep yourself vigilant. Don't put on a false front, but don't be weak. Have good body posture. Speak clearly. Use short simple statements, and be rude if you have to. No thanks, I'm good, or firmer if you think it's necessary.

Don't let anyone stop you from walking.

No is a full sentence.

If they get physical, f**k, if they even touch you, scream and yell and don't let them get you away from the public area, away from light and people. We often have the impulse to not make a scene- f**k that. Make the biggest fuss you've ever made.

Learn to listen to your instincts and intuition. They aren't always right, so you should evaluate them, and then proceed.

BeardsuptheWazoo Report

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

I still feel bad for that on person in Monastir back then. Maybe he just tries to sell us overpriced bracelet to make a living. But on the other hand, never ever touch strangers without their permission.

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#21

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know Never plug in space heaters to power strips! ALWAYS plug them directly into wall outlets. This is one of the most common fire starters in home fires.

poshquail , Alirad Zare Report

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#22

if your being followed (Car or walking) dont go home, rather head toward the nearest police station and park/sit there for a bit.

also craigslist deals can be done in police parking lots, it can be a bit awkward asking someone to meet there to sell you their old ps4 but if they are honest then they will have no reason not to.

oti95 Report

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

I work at a busy train station and I sometimes see people doing the buying/selling thing and I always think good on you guys you picked a good spot to do your transaction, lots of CCTV cameras and lots of people around.

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#23

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know Uniforms (especially of high function, such as doctors, fireman, army...) can trick your mind. Just because someone wear one doesn't mean they are kind and safe, and can't hurt you. Even if it's a real one or during work hour/on duty.

Memetastikk , RF._.studio Report

#24

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know Oh I have a really good one. In the event of a disaster, such as earthquake or flood, The drinking water system frequently becomes contaminated.

Therefore you need to shut off the intake valve to your water heater.

Then your water heater becomes an emergency drinking water tank.

thedrakeequator , cottonbro Report

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

Better yet, fill up all the sinks and bathtubs. I like to keep the empty water jugs and fill them. I also put a few drops of bleach, in them.

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#25

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know When boiling a pot of water, turn the handle inwards towards the center of the stove / counter. That way somebody (especially a kid) won’t come by and knock it over or grab it and pull it over on themselves.

Actuaryba , Michal Balog Report

#26

Never take a sleeping pill and a laxative at the same time.

LusciousLennyStone Report

#27

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know Sharp tools are safer and easier to control than dull ones. This goes for basically anything with a blade, whether it’s a saw blade, utility knife, chisel, or simple kitchen knife. You’re more likely to slip, lose control, or kickback with a dull blade.

Djdubbs , NIKOLAY OSMACHKO Report

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

Sharp knives don't slip off food. Keep your fingers in proper cutting positions

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#28

If you have been on the fence for a while about being too cold to continue, in a backcountry situation, you are already too cold. Immediately make emergency efforts to get warm. Being hypothermic severely clouds your judgement.

latolat2 Report

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

Fortunately here this is highly unlikely, the only time it gets that cold is at night in winter, where it can go to -2 degC. But as long as you keep walking or bundle up, you'll be ok. Heat here is much more dangerous. Cape Town can get to 42 deg C.

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#29

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know If you get bitten by an animal that you even think is rabid get vaccinated RIGHT AWAY.

Rabies is a brutal way to go out and if you miss your window there’s not much nothing that can be done.

a_clown_with_a_piano , Mufid Majnun Report

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

This one I'd change a little bit, to if you get bitten or scratched by animal you can't prove doesn't have rabies (can't catch it or don't want to kill it) just get a vaccine (unless it's a neighbor's dog/cat with fully up to date vaccinations). And be aware that for example hedgehogs use their saliva against parasites by spreading it on their spikes, which mean that if you grab it (take it away from road for example) you can already get infected. Luckily it's rare in parts of the world, but it's way better to take the vaccine than to go out with rabies. Except for anti vaxers I guess...

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#30

Walk against traffic so you can see what’s coming, not with your back to it!

Redjet4 Report

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

But if you walk on a road that has curves, I'd advise to walk on the side of the road that has traffic coming from behind you; a driver going into a curve will see you too late if you're walking against traffic (becasue they can't see around a curve). Someone coming from behind you will have to slow down until you pass the curve. At least, I'm convinced this is the case :')

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#31

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know Do NOT put objects in the driver's foot space. Even things as small as a tennis ball. It's very unsafe for the driver.

AvianDragon_Minokawa , Unervi González Report

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#32

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know You're more likely to be attacked in a transitional space. Going into and out of buildings, cars, and especially between the two. You let your guard down because you're thinking about what you're going to do when you get there, not what you're doing right now, and not what's going on around you. Stay alert, stay safe.

pevip6 , Brett Sayles Report

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

Yep I was once attacked upon arriving at home. If you see someone loitering around or an unfamiliar car, go around the block again or to a cop shop.

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#33

F.A.S.T. For strokes.

F = Face Drooping – Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person's smile uneven?

A = Arm Weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S = Speech Difficulty – Is speech slurred?

T = Time to call 911

pihip2 Report

#34

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know Check and clean out the lint collector in your dryer regularly.

Whig_Party , PlanetCare Report

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T. D. Bostick
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just clean it out every time you use it. Make it a habit. Then it's a no-brainer.

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#35

There's a principal in safety called Heinrich's Pyramid, and while the precise numbers are open for debate, the general principal is that after a certain number of unsafe acts you will have a serious injury or fatality. This is typically used for workplace safety, but the point is, every time you decide that you don't need that piece of safety equipment, or you can skip that one step even though the book says to do it, you're ticking down the clock until a serious accident happens. In Heinrich's original, he posited that for each serious accident (major injury/fatality), there would be about 30 accidents with minor injury, and 300 unsafe acts. So eliminate those minor unsafe acts, shortcuts etc, and significantly reduce or eliminate the corresponding number of serious accidents.

DJLowZ Report

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

Makes sense. You cut a corner or skip a step the first time it might not be a huge thing. But next time you skip 2 steps and that's how you eventually end up with an accident.

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#36

No matter how cute the wild animal is...don't approach it! It's NOT worth it!

philistine-slayer Report

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

Please leave wild animals alone. Forget the f*****g selfie and just stand back and simply look at them. If you HAVE to take a picture, stand back at a safe distance and use your zoom function. Also, don’t try to be a hero and “save” a baby wild animal. You do not know what the hell you’re doing—-and may be doing way more harm than good. If you see a baby animal in obvious distress, call the park rangers if in a national park, or whatever relevant professionals apply. Then wait for them. Try to keep predators at bay if you can until the pros arrive, especially if the baby is from an endangered species, but don’t risk your life trying to keep a bear or mountain lion at bay. It may be distressing, but Nature can sometimes be cruel to the small and weak.

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#37

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know Nobody wins in a street fight.

Jellybean720 , Keira Burton Report

#38

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know If you have a skin mole that has blurry edges, isn't symmetrical, is a weird shade of red, weeps fluids, or acts like an open wound that won't heal, you might have skin cancer. Go to a doctor IMMEDIATELY. Melanoma kills fast.

vivav5 , Karolina Grabowska Report

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

Now, red moles do exist and are generally harmless, but do confirm if you get them if you have, just to make sure.

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#39

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know If your child goes missing in your home, first check any spots that would be dangerous for them to be (near water heaters, sump pumps etc…) then check their common hiding spots.

CthulhuBae1111 , Scott Webb Report

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

My daughter went missing in our home when she was still just on all fours. I eventually found her sound asleep on the floor, in the far corner under her crib, rolled up in her blankie. She wanted her nap, so she took it on herself to get it. To this day I wish I had had a camera.

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#40

People Are Sharing 40 Basic And Genius Safety Tips Everyone Should Know If you're confronted, it's far better to run away if at all possible rather than try to fight your attacker. Even if you think you are a badass.

Hokusai135 , Barbara Olsen Report

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

And it's always better to avoid it / move out of the way, and not be macho and stand your ground. You can't fight someone high on drugs for example. They will not feel a lot of pain even if you hit them in head first, on the other side, they won't stop once you get in confrontation, it's not like they won't jump on your head when you're laying on the ground.

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Note: this post originally had 85 images. It’s been shortened to the top 40 images based on user votes.