People Are Sharing Their Knowledge On Being “Street Smart”, Here Are 30 Of Their Most Useful Tips
Humans are cautious creatures who avoid ending up in sketchy situations at all costs. But when you find yourself walking in a dimly lit alley or riding the subway late at night, you can't help but feel your senses go on high alert, wondering about things that could potentially save your valuables or even your life.
Reddit user lofisky wanted to find out what they are, so they made a post on Ask Reddit: "People with 'street smarts', what is your most street tip?" Within just a few days, thousands of people took the opportunity to share their precious wisdom and help people ensure their safety even in the most dire situations.
Below, Bored Panda wrapped up some useful pieces of advice and put them all in one place for you to read. So take out your notebook, grab a pen, and write down a thing or two on how to protect yourself against threats. And if you still feel the need for some more street tips, take a look at our previous posts right here and here!
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The most practical self-defence item you can own is a very high-powered flashlight, especially one with a strobe function.
Drawing a weapon will always escalate a situation, and may cause any aggressor to fight with lethal force. You also cannot use a weapon pre-emptively except in very clear self-defense scenarios. You can't shoot someone just because they look shifty. You also cannot legally carry them in many places.
None of this applies to a flashlight. You can legally and inconspicuously carry it anywhere. You can use it without provocation without legal or moral issue.
It is also highly effective. It is incredibly difficult to hit or stab someone who is shining a 1000 lumen strobe light in your face. It can be almost impossible to properly see where that person is, and it will be painful to even look at them.
As a bonus, flashlights are just super handy tools to have in day-to-day life.
4 D cell Maglites are incredibly tough bits of kit. If you have to use it as a weapon they are heavy because of the batteries and made of aluminium so they don’t bend, you don’t get up in a hurry after someone has accidentally hit you with one. For information purposes obviously 😜 Don’t hit people mmm’kay?
If you ever find yourself homeless in a big city but want to keep clean because of job/hygiene standards/whatever, look into gyms in the area. Many of them have very low-cost memberships or even free trials for a certain amount of time. Head on in, get your shower, brush your teeth, and get yourself all cleaned up.
Hope it helps anyone who needs it as much as it helped me.
Ditto community centers, YMCAs, public college rec centers, etc. Gyms don't have to exclusively be fancy places that require a membership. Lots of the more public options offer cheap day passes.
If you're uncomfortable with your surroundings, leave.
Your unconscious is often more aware of your surroundings than you'd think. If something you can't figure out is telling you to go, listen to it.
We managed to get in touch with the creator of this thread, lofisky, who was kind enough to have a little chat with us. The user told Bored Panda they often post random questions on Ask Reddit to simply discover new things. This time, they were curious to learn about different tips that could potentially help in a tough situation.
Well, it’s better to be safe than sorry, isn’t it? That’s why so many people seem eager to discover as many helpful tidbits of information as they possibly can. Like being confident and pretending to always be aware of where you're going. Or making sure you know where the exit is at all times. And let’s not forget about confirming the license plate before getting on your ride.
Always look like you know where you're going, even when you don't.
It's amazing what projecting the right amount of confidence can get you. I used to work at a bar. I wouldn't have admitted it then, but I carded way more based on someone's confidence than on how old they looked. I suck at estimating ages. If you hemmed and hawwed when deciding on a drink, asked a dumb question, acted jittery, or had too much bravado, I would have carded you. If you were confident but not overly so and had a normal conversation, I probably wouldn't have asked for ID.
If you are feeling unsafe, find the biggest friendliest person and act like you know them, chances are they will understand, help you out and you'll end up making a friend.
Had a group of young men once nod in a targeting manner towards me in a dangerous subway station in SF, the big dude I sat next to, and acted like I knew, was understanding when I explained why I was sitting next to him, we ended up chatting during the subway ride too. Very cool guy.
A red traffic light is just a "traffic suggestion" to some people.
Always keep an eye out at intersections for idiots running a red light.
As of today, the thread has amassed more than 59.6K upvotes and 28.6K comments. Plenty of Redditors with "street smarts" shared their precious insights on how to survive in the urban jungle. "I didn’t expect that much attention at all! I’m very glad that so many people took the time to answer my question," the user said.
"I learned that it’s important to be knowledgeable and always be ready for any unexpected situations that may occur at any given time. It was interesting to see what advice different people have to give."
If someone asks you for help. Like 'my car won't start' or, really anything. Don't help them but offer to call someone for them.
I learned this ~10 years ago. I had to do a thing in the bad side of town once a week early in the morning. I would get there ~5:00 a.m., they opened at 6:00 but I wanted to get in and out and leave.
There were a few other regulars at that time for the same reason. One I befriended was a lady named Kim.
We were both there one morning. A couple of guys pulled up in their car ~100' from us. They got out, lifted the hood made some noise, called us over to help them. They were having car troubles.
Kim told me to stay where I was, I shrugged and said 'OK'. She walks over, they talk a few minutes, they drive off and she comes back.
Kim says "They didn't have car trouble, they were going to rob us".
I say "Seriously? No s**t. Why did they drive off then"?
Kim says "I showed them the gun in my hand". Then she showed me the gun in her hand.
I said "Oh. OK"
I would say trust your gut and know the area. I live in a region where it's common for people to break down and all they need is jumper cables. Someone is usually willing to help because that's what we do. We don't want to hear of someone freezing to death waiting for help for what could be way too long in our climate.
Ladies, never leave your drink unattended and don't accept drinks from strangers when you didn't see the drink being made.
Some establishments don't let you take your drink to the washroom. You can leave it with the servers and they'll keep it safe behind the counter.
This thread serves as proof that some people have minds full of knowledge on how to survive and stay safe while living an urban life. So if you’re living in a quiet and calm neighborhood or come from a distant suburb, there are certain things you need to learn to avoid getting scammed (or worse!) out there in the real world.
According to lofisky, everyone should have a fraction of such knowledge. "I believe having at least a decent amount of 'street smarts' is essential, so you are prepared for any unexpected events that happen in life, and know how to handle potentially dangerous situations."
If someone approaching you says “hey man, I ain’t gonna rob you” - they’re probably gonna try to rob you.
If someone starts to loudly state that they’ve lost their wallet or phone, don’t obviously or immediately go to check on yours in your bag or pocket. It’s a common pickpocket technique to get people to show the pickpockets where their stuff is.
Or better, sadly, they say they have FOUND a wallet or phone and so you check.
Trust your gut. If anyone seems a little too friendly, get away ASAP.
Always trust you instincts. This should be number one. Your subconscious picks up hundreds of cues and notices things that you don't consciously take in but which result in a feeling of unease - even if you have no idea why. You may never figure out the 'why' but trusting your instincts and perhaps feeling a little silly for it is way better than potential alternatives.
When asked why so many people are always ready to give safety advice, the user believes that most have answered the question through their own backgrounds. They seem to know when to avoid potentially negative situations that even with a favorable outcome might have alarming consequences.
A streetwise person can read between the lines, they know who you can trust, are skilled in the art of self-defense, and have a perfectly working inner BS radar. "Perhaps they have been through tough times in life and have enough life experience to share their advice with everyone else," lofisky added.
Lock your doors as soon as you’re in a car.
It's great when cars automatically unlock when you put them in park. Like, could you not? You don't know what kind of area I'm in!
Confirm the license plate and make sure you are getting in your proper Uber/Lyft.
This is a good idea for taxis, too. The license plate and cab number. Get their name, too.
If someone is asking you for help, but you need to follow them around the corner to help them... don't. Politely say you're late to a meeting and keep walking.
I don't even think you need to (or should) make excuses. A polite but confident "No. I won't do that" would probably work just as well.
The creator of this thread would like to advise you to stay curious. "It’s important to listen to everyone, whoever they are, good or bad. You can always learn from them. Even if it’s just social media like Reddit, never stop learning something new," they concluded.
Men don't ask women for help with moving or fixing things, they ask other men. If a man asks a woman for help moving something, he's probably a creep & you should get out of there as quickly as possible.
If you're in the hood and you see kids playing outside, you're probably safe. If there are a lot of people outside but no kids, be super cautious and walk with a purpose. If it's empty or only teenagers/young adults, get out asap.
If you're in the hood wouldn't you know this? I know my city and have never said "Damn where am I, oh s**t...I'm in the hood"
If you ever get pulled over at night, immediately turn on all your lights inside your car. In my experience, it tends to relieve whatever tension the officer may have since they can see you a little bit more clearly. Plus it's better than having a flashlight shined in your face.
And roll all of your windows down! It shows you have nothing to hide. This goes for any time of the day.
This is bad advice - do not roll down your window more than you have to. Both safety experts and lawyers say only open your window far enough to pass documents and hear each other. An open window is a threat to both parties. Prevent the person coming up to your window from having access to you and the things inside your vehicle. #1 - bad people pretend to be law enforcement and aren't. #2 - 99.99% of all cops could be great but that 1 cop is the one who drags you through the open window just because. #3 Even the best cops are apprehensive when making a stop because they have no idea what will happen when they get up there and can make an honest, human mistake. A closed window subconsciously makes them feel safer when the interaction begins because you can't reach out and stab them through a mostly closed window either. Let them see you are not a threat with a glass barrier protecting them.
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Also don't grab for your insurance info and registration until they ask for it. I was always told to have it ready but last three times have had guns pulled on me because they thought I was reaching for a weapon.
I was always told grab it when asked one time I didn't they did get jumpy no gun, but they stopped me immediately and asked me to not open the glove box till they were ready.
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It's a better environment over all, but they're still going to shine that light in your face; you can believe that. 😆
Honestly I'd just sit real still with the window cracked enough for the two of you to hear each other and your hands on the top of the steering wheel. Officers get real jumpy when you start doing allot of moving around in your vehicle.
Making a joke helps show you're innocent. I have a get out of jail free card in my wallet that I pull out as a joke.
IF you are safely able to turn on talk to text isn't a bad idea either. Flip it over slide under the seat. I say this for a few reasons but there have been more than a few murders/assaults ... where "Officers" of the Law ... weren't. Police gear and flashing lights can be bought anywhere, enough to fool an average person. Sounds silly I know, but know how to escape your trunk too. Damn I watch too much TV lol
Not a good idea in my country, drive to the nearest Police station with your hazards on. Far too many people have been hijacked or worse by people impersonating traffic cops or police
Young and naive, I jumped out and retrieved my wallet while the officer approached. Glad I'm not profiled like some ...
Not everybody pulling you over is a cop. Wait to pull over in a well lit area, and explain to the police that you did nog feel safe. Nova Scotian here, we are still dealing with the aftermath of Gabriel Wortman.
Here in US most cops appreciate that too, I seen people pull over in dark spots and the cop will order them to keep going. But in my area its not uncommon for a cop to get hit by passing car in the dark so they really like it when you pick a spot with more room, and light. Some might get jumpy but you won't get in real trouble if you explain it was for both your saftey. Like last one I saw the cop parked closer to the road, Using squad car to block for him so he could talk to the driver its not uncommong but I also seen people hit the car still and smash it into the cop and the vheichle they pulled over so its really a f****d no matter what situation any time a cop pulls you over on busy road. Hell last time it was warning for cracked windsheild using my mothers car years ago, I was actually told by cop to pull of main road. I didn't like one damn bit but I got the idea he wanted to be safer as that intersection he flicked his lights on we were near was a big accident magnet.
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Then they will instantly kill you for putting lights on obviously... /s
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Kinda sucks that the tips for interacting with cops is always like they're some wild bear or a swarm of bees.
Its other way around you in the car are the wild bear or swarm of bees and every time a cop pulls some one over they literally putting their neck on the line. Like more cops die from traffic stops then anything else. Could be a meth head in there, criminal, or they could just be clipped by a drunk passing by while they talk to you. Its not uncomon at all for cops to be shot, attacked or hit by cars during traffic stops its the most unsafe thing most cops will ever do in their whole career. Not every cop is gonna end up in a shoot out, or stop a bank robber. But I have seen traffic stops go wrong, somehting that was suppose to be routine turn out the guy is wanted and listed as armed and unsafe, and they need 4 more cops before they can arrest the guy. Because one loan cop doing it is just asking to end up on the news.
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Sad that you need to make sure you're save from the police where you are living :(
Its not just cops its impersnators Every now and then cops catch people wiht illegal lights installed on their car, posing as undercover cop cars. Its real issue and cops don't like to report it locally because it makes people not trust them. There was couple years ago he was a rent a cop, and he pulled over 3 people one morning pretending to be a cop to give warnings and try to see what he could get away with, and he pulled over a real undercover cop car lol That was like Christmas for those cops when the guy pulled a fake badge on them from local PD, and they went "you badge is fake, real ones for Mesa PD look like this."
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Especially if you have tinted windows- it can reduce a lot of tension when the officer can readily see in your car.
My history teacher said to stick ur hands out the window to show ur not a threat, I did this and made the officers day she couldn't stop giggling lol
Turn on all lights. Shut off engine. Place keys on dashboard. Have documentation ready. Making it as easy and safe for the cop as possible just might save your life.
Some officers will shine the flashlight anyways because some departments carry a flashlight that is also an alcohol sniffer. They get indication on the other end of the flashlight if it senses alcohol in the car on your breath. Then they pull you out and put you to the test.
Roll down your windows just enough so you can stick your hands through, then just hold them outside of your car window. This helps show the cops that you don't have anything in your hands, and especially POC, be careful and make sure you're as nice as possible (people have been shot for less)
Imagine having to fear for your life from the people sworn to protect you
Imagine having to fear for your life from the people sworn to protect you. How do you people live like that?
Going too fast, see a Highway Patrol..especially at night...don't hit your brakes...too obvious, the Popo KNOW your going too fast already...ease off the gas and continue on...
Always put something between yourself and the ground, even if it's just a piece of cardboard. Especially on asphalt, it absorbs heat and it will feel like it's sucking the life out of you
If you see the car for too long and it’s bothering you? Do something. Spin that block. Drive illogically. If you spin that block, it will have to follow you in an illogical path. It takes a minute to do this and determine a tail. Don’t ever stop, just drive a longer and more illogical route to determine if you’re being followed. If you’re being followed? Don’t go home. Drive to a hospital ER entrance. There’s always security there. They’re used to crazy. And immediate medical attention if something is bad. And cameras. Lots of them. And all cops can get there without looking it up.
Police stations is a better idea than going to the emergency department where they have real medical emergency to focus on. You can even go to a convenience store, like 7/11. Since they're prone to crimes I'm pretty sure they have police services on speed dial. They also have a lot of cameras, lights and police typically know where they are, too.
Never count your cash in public even if in singles.
Your elbow is the strongest joint on your body… take advantage of it when you can.
It only takes about 5lbs of pressure on someone's neck to make them go unconscious, which only takes about 8 seconds, and your elbow can easily apply over 70lbs of pressure with the right hold.
Well, If you're traveling, never randomly stop on the sidewalk to consult a map, or appear visibly lost. Duck into a coffee shop or something to orient yourself.
If you see something potentially illegal going on don't look directly at them. Especially if you know that you're not going to be reporting it to the police.
If you see someone who's watching you and you notice them, and then they say "Can I help you?" with a grin, don't stop or say anything. Just keep going and when you're out of sight report it to police non-emergency. It's much easier to talk to non-emergency police, especially if the information is vague or unsure.
If an attractive woman asks for directions, look for her partner behind you or going into your car to take what they can grab.
Typical vacation area scam.
My bisexual self and my pansexual girlfriend knowing that we aren't immune to scams: oh no. My aro friends: oh yes.
Always get the money upfront.
People who want to pay later probably won't and then things can get messy.
Get them to pay half now and half later. At least they'll have something invested and if they're not satisfied with the outcome you can leave it as a half off discount and try again, if they want you to.
Exercise your legs. Although in a bad situation they'll probably feel like wet noodles, if needed you'll be able to run. It will also show in everyday life that you are capable of moving effortlessly. Most people are sluggish and it's not hard to notice.
Some people can't help it. My knees seem to be giving me trouble lately. In that case you have to think smart and avoid areas with high crime rates. Some people can't help that, either. Have someone with you. Make sure your making friends and acquaintances with the good people in the neighbourhood, and the staff at the places you frequent. People are more likely to watch out for those they know the names of.
If there’s an emergency in a crowded place, find your own exit. Don’t blindly follow the crowd. Many people in an emergency try to go out the same way they came in, and it can lead to jammed doorways/pile-ups that can trap you. Property damage doesn’t matter in that moment—Break windows if you can, drywall can be broken through fairly easily too, bust out that b**ch like the Kool-Aid man.
I find people are telling others that are panicking to calm down and then they just go about their business. There's a social phenomena that occurs. Something to do with crowd influence behaviour? I can't remember the term. There could be a real emergency, if no one else is reacting and the one person who knows better does, people will just go with the crowd than listen to the one person.
I travel quite a lot, so some things I have realized.
If you find a gas station, and all the windows are covered by ads, so much they can't see outside. Well, that is because they don't want to be a witness.
If you stop seeing sidewalks, a lack of street light walking signs, or no more stoplights...that is not where you need to be.
Always keep a change of clothes and some water in your car. Never know when you need it.
If a motorcycle with 2 people on it slows down near you RUN esp in South and Central America.
India too. If two men go by on a motorcycle and snatch your chunni, get your older brother to beat them up before his job interview. (Bonus points if you get the reference.)
Beware of people who have nothing to lose, and people who have everything to lose.
Well Swan it's still good advice. I've followed it for years, and I'll continue to follow it...hopefully for many more years. An their's nothing racist about self preservation.
Another tip: get to know your local homeless people. If you live in a city and regularly walk past the same homeless people, stop and say hi once in a while. Just have a brief chat and give them some change. Even a smile helps. Believe me, these guys know EVERYTHING about what happens on that block. If you're ever in trouble, they'll help you out if you've been friendly, or they may just pretend they didn't see a thing. They can also help watch your car - for instance if someone dings it and drives off, they might even get the plate for you. View the street as their home; when walking on the street, you're walking through their living room. They can be excellent hosts.
This doesn't apply if you're traveling in a new city. Not worth befriending a homeless guy if you're only there for like 2 days.
Don't act like a victim. Walk tall and keep your head up.
If you're on foot, know the outs. Watch behind houses for fences. Assume anyone that chases you knows the area better than you. If you feel like you're being watched, you are. Stop moving, stop breathing, and listen again. Nobody wants to attack an aware victim. If you hold your breath on foot, in about 45 seconds, you can hear everything. Your ears adjust. Cannot do it while walking and blood is pumping in your ears. You can hear people breathing well over ten feet away if you wait long enough.
Blend in. Everywhere. Even if you’re faking it. And, if you’re faking it, get out as soon as you inconspicuously can.
Wear shorts under ur pants keep your valuables in ur shorts
Edit: I always wear sweats I put my hand in my pants to get to my shorts, I think this is the equivalent of women taking money out of their boob
Walk on the road if you’re in a real shady neighborhood and it’s late at night. Not in traffic but away from alleyway entrances.
There's more light on the road. Street lights are really to help drivers see. Not so much for pedestrian safety.
Fighting is not like the movies. Many people won't fight fair even. You never know what a person’s got in their pockets like a knife or any deadly weapon for that matter. Also seen people go back to their car and get a piece
Also on the other side of the coin, you shouldn’t pull out a weapon unless you absolutely know you gonna do some damage cause that same weapon can be pulled on you quick
In Canada, people are likely to use bear spray, knives, billiard balls in socks, and machetes as weapons. The best way to avoid these is don't stop for random people and don't argue with anything they say. Just ignore them. Let them shout back but whatever you do, don't engage.
When you're getting ice cream ask for one scoop first and then act like you changed your mind and ask for another. Typically they will make that first scoop larger than if you would have asked for two initially.
This also seems to work in places like Chipotle.
Listen always and speak only when you need to. People don't know when to shut up.
If someone refuses to allow others equal speaking time, cuts people off and always goes on about themselves, it's an indication they may be a narcissist. Run.
Never leave the house in shoes you can't run/fight in. Flip flops are for the gym shower.
What is with all this "prepare to fight or flee"? How often do people get into these kinds of situations?
Final reiteration that your smooth little reptilian hindbrain has evolved running from creatures on this planet with big a*s fangs and camouflage, and venom, and claws. Lots of claws. You, as a person, are a little animal… and your personality and identity are an evolutionary add-on that is pretty damn amazing. The cauliflower part of your brain is in charge, but you have an old brain down there underneath it. When the little smooth part of your brain says “Uh, run!” DO IT, NOW. You’re here because THE HINDBRAIN DID ITS DAMN JOB for millions of years. It’s not capable of expressing itself in letters or numbers. It’s stupid. It’s the heebie-jeebies part of your brain. It’s very old. It misfires a lot. It will also give you a fair warning.
If someone goes to hand you something don’t take it by default. People's muscle reaction is to take something they are handed.
I fell for that once in Hollywood, dude then tried to fleece me for money and would not take the item back. I dropped it on the ground and walked away.
Live and learn
Dress like where you are going. It doesn’t have to be exactly like them, just enough to not look too out of place. Also, pretend in your head that you have been there before and feel relaxed even if it’s forced because nervous people attract too much attention.
You have best friends you trust and share your secrets with, and your best friends also have best friends who they trust and share your secrets with.
In crowded areas, carry bags, purses, and packages in front of you rather than behind you.
When someone is staring at you looking for a fight, glance and keep them in your peripheral vision, but otherwise don't maintain direct eye contact except for a brief moment. This exudes confidence yet acknowledged their threat.
Do not keep staring long at them (challenge look), or actually avert eye contact (signing you as vulnerable prey).
Stand tall and at if carrying one bag, or even bags, put that bag in your weaker, nondominant hand so when you're under sudden attack, you could react faster. DO NOT BURDEN YOUR DOMINANT HAND IN GROCERIES/PURSE/WHATEVER in a high-risk area. It's better to carry two bags in your non-dominant hand than to have each hand carry a bag.
Don't put your hair up in a ponytail, either. It can tell the other person you're preparing to fight. I had that happen once and it took me by shock because I was just genuinely wanting to fix a strand that had gotten loose.
if you think a violent situation is about to happen, clench your teeth, put your tongue against the roof of your mouth, and drop your chin closer to your chest. never ever ever put keys in between your fingers, and take your hands out of your pockets. and stand staggered, not with feet together.
The one time I almost got into a fight, my buddy who was from LA told me to raise my leg like I was going to kick them in the crotch and instead kick their knee and keep kicking. Seemed like good advice. I instead started talking and the other party realized we were harmless.
Never show your watch, wallet, or phone in areas known for pickpockets.
Also don't touch your pockets if you see warning signs, because a good thief will be watching to see which pocket your valuables are in.
And when approached by someone on the street be mindful of who else is watching and what is behind you. Try and keep everything in front of you and don't be afraid to shout and swear at them to get attention.
If someone puts a gun or knife in your face don't be a hero.
If you carry a purse, have a wallet and don't keep it in your purse. Put a decoy wallet in your purse. Keep your real wallet in a pocket. Buy clothes with pockets, ladies. They exist. Bring your jeans or other apparel to a tailor and have them make real pockets. Or learn to do it yourself. Another thing I do is put my purse around me, have it in the front. Then put a cardigan or jacket on. I make sure I get one with deep pockets. I'll have my hands in my pockets so no one can just slip their hands in them. Never put anything in your back pocket.
This one may be a bit specific to NYC, but if the subway car is empty on an otherwise busy day, there's probably a very good reason.
Also related, if someone's being crazy on the train, don't engage or respond unless you absolutely have no other choice.
If you are on public transportation, and people are exhibiting anti-social behavior (smoking, playing music on their speakers, etc) don't say anything. These people know what they are doing and are most likely looking for a fight. They also likely have very little to lose. Ignore it, and if it bothers you enough, get off or move to the next stop.
If you have asthma or any other type of respiratory condition jot down or take a picture of the bus route and number, and screen shot the time you got on the bus, ALWAYS. It's very hard to speak when your lungs feel like collapsing and are burning. Don't expect the bus driver to take direct action. They go through enough with attacks and assaults. Some of them are afraid of people. Start introducing yourself and make sure the driver sees you and sees you have paid the full fare.
If you’re in a bad neighborhood, for the love of god, stay in well-lit areas. The shortcut through the alley will cost you more than the time it saves.
But if you find yourself in danger run to the basement or roof and hide behind the chainsaws and yell "is someone there?"
This one isn’t so much protection, but when you’re walking and you know how people do that little shuffle thing when they walk towards each other because you don’t know which way the people are going. Well if you maintain a line of sight in a direction, not looking into the eyes of people coming towards you, people will just move out of your way. No awkward little dance.
I absolutely hate people that do this. I have mobility issues and use a walking aid so I am prone to losing my balance quite easily. If some self-important muppet decides that they are just gonna plough straight through like Moses, because of sh!tty advice like this or because they are glued to their phone, it makes life that much harder. It is so rude as well. Expecting people to move because 'Princess Bethany' is coming through. Ugh.
Don't raise your voice with strangers and always be the last to speak. you don't know if these guys are wired properly or not
Always have two or three people in your circle that you trust, and make sure y’all have a code word/signal. one that you can use casually because it’s harmless without context, but it’ll let your people know that something is up
When you stop your car, always make sure you have enough room in front of you for an escape route. It's impossible sometimes, but do the best you can.
This should be common practice, I never understand why people are so fixated on getting right up to each other's bumpers. If the car ahead of me breaks down, or worse, if they deliberately stop so that they can jack my car, I want to have room to drive around wherever possible. I have saved myself a few dents before from people who either can't pull forward on a hill without rolling backwards or who have accidentally selected reverse.
Even in daylight, watch for places where the streetlights have been broken. Bad people, who like to hide in the dark shoot out streetlights. If it's night, and you see a television running in an open window, that's a kid that might be a lookout. You'll have the feeling you've been made.
If you hear fireworks going off on random night frequently in rough neighbourhoods, this is to distract people when guns are being fired. Used to happen a lot in one such neighbourhood. People would be shooting fireworks so often that when you're sure you've heard a gunshot the first thing your told and second thing asked by police is "It's probably fireworks. Are you sure it's not fireworks you heard?" By the time you're off the phone you're questioning the sound you heard and the only thing police are gonna do is drive around and that's it.
Always walk with traffic coming towards you.
Always know that most people are out for themselves only.
If you get mugged, remember what the thief is wearing (watches jewelry) and tell the police it was yours, so if they catch them, you'll be a winner.
Stand up for yourself, even if you're shaking at the core.
If you’re selling something on something like facebook marketplace, you have to be very careful. you’re going to be meeting someone you’ve probably never met in your life. meet in a public place, like a bank, a police station, anywhere public etc. if they’re paying in cash and it’s expensive, count the money FIRST, and make sure it’s REAL, before giving your product to them. anyone who isn’t trying to rob you will be fine with this, especially if you’re in a public place like a bank lobby area.
-card skimmers are everywhere. always make sure by pulling the card reader block to see if it’s real or not.
I always do this, and always accept only cash. The average person won't have a card reader. Never meet at the bank, especially at an ATM. Always somewhere very public and a common meeting ground like Starbucks or Tim Hortons or some other place that has customers sitting and people watching.
Never yell back at a group of guys verbally harassing you. Just keep walking. Don’t make a face, don’t change your walking pace, and keep going as they’re not there.
I don't understand why a group of people bother people they don't know just because they're walking by. Never understood this behaviour but it's a common problem.
Avoid the loudest person in the room.
Avoid people. Urgh people, horrid things that spoil pretty much everything they touch.
If you are involved in a confrontation pay attention to the hands. 2 things:
If they reach into their pocket and/or under their shirt you are likely going to be hit with something, stabbed, or shot.
if they are tucking their hands by their hamstring and/or clenching their first while looking you up and down you’re about to get punched.
Run or take the fight to them because if either one of these things are happening you’re already the underdog.
Or maybe they are just taking out a mobile phone just before you start attacking them
If you see the same car twice get into a shop or store. If someone asks you for the time keep your hand on your wallet and only slightly pull your pocket out the check the time. If you are in a shady neighborhood remove anything that could be seen as a symbol for a rival gang, hats, jackets, stuff like that, it’s unlucky but not worth the risk.
Never wear a matching Adidas tracksuit in some areas. Gangs use sports clothes as gang attire. At least they used to. And bandannas.
Drive in front of a place once before landing there. Get your eyes on it.
When a hustler asks "I bet I know where you got those shoes" The answer is always on your feet.
Cars: All headlights on vehicles are fingerprints. Every time you look in a rearview mirror, imprint the headlights in your short-term memory. Try to think of what kind of car it is. Learn what headlights and taillights go with what type of car. Make it a game. Keep it as a background thought. It will trigger you when the third turn happens and the headlights are the same.
These days, car headlights are blinding. You're going to damage your eyes if you look at those lights for long. It's like staring at the sun.
When you drive to a place in the dark that you've never been to, drive in with the windows down and the radio off. Turn off the car. Count to thirty, and listen. On a good night, without air conditioners buzzing, you can hear everything. Then, get out of the car.
NEVER drive with the windows down. Keep them up and make sure the doors are locked. Get of the areas that are making you uncomfortable. NEVER get out of the car.
This whole post sets a very dark tone - maybe I am unable to relate because of my "sheltered life" in european suburbs, where nobody carries a gun and crime is on the lowest level since decades. But as paranoid as some of these hacks sound, I understand that they might be necessary in an American context. The yearly murder rate of the USA is a bit over 5 out of 100 000 people, while the same figure for Germany is 0.7. Also gang crime (gangs at all, actually) is basically non-existent here.
Hey guys and gals, I find living in a society that’s not straight out of Mad Max is pretty calm. My town (Buxton, Derbyshire) is very tame, there’s a few loons who partake of a bit too much booze of a Friday night and there’s an estate that you’ll do well to avoid wandering around aimlessly after dark but seriously, most humans aren’t hell bent on fighting, mugging, attacking or stealing your car from you. Be more aware of your surroundings and don’t panic about making you life about living in fear, it’ll only drag you down.
Yeah, that's true. Not many peeps want to risk getting into a tumble with a stranger. I agree these are good tips to be mindful of, like being aware of where the exit sign is in a building.
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It's called the real world. Most people will end up being the victim of some form of property crime in their life, somewhat fewer a violent crime, but life is never wuite the same afterwards.
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The take-away from this post-- trust no one: especially if they are friendly, in need of help or good looking. You've been warned!
I wished I grew up like you did to be this careless about problems/situations in public spaces (I mean it in a good way)
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Look, I get it, be cautious, but really? Who didn't learn at least half of these by age 10? Use. Common. Sense. If you don't have any, then don't drink or do drugs, which right there reduces risks of injury/death. Don't walk around thinking the world is your bestie, with your ears plugged and your eyes on your phone. And you'll soon find that 98% of humanity jsut wants to be left the F alone.
Einstein said, “the problem with common sense, is that it’s not so common.”
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I'm surprised no one mentioned acting "crazy" to make people keep their distance. There's a thing I used to do when using public transport and having to wait a while in a sketchy area of town. If a guy started trying to hit on me, I'd look to the left, look to the right (slowly, as if I wanted to make sure no one was paying attention.) Then I'd put a finger to my lips and whisper, "Shhh ... !" (Another sweeping look around.) "I'm ... not ... really ... heeeere." And then I would tiptoe away. So instead of the guy possibly getting hostile over a rejection, he'd be sitting there thinking, "Whew! Dodged that bullet!" Plus he's got a funny story to tell his friends. Win-win!
If you're walking alone, walk on the side of the road where the sun/ light is hitting. That way you can keep an eye on your shadow and see if anyone tries to sneak up on you.
This is excellent! Also wearing those mirror sunglasses (if they're large enough) you can see who's behind you.
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Get off your d4mn phones when you're walking around and pay attention. You're making yourself a target.
While taking karate, I learned that if an attacker grabs you from behind pinning both your arms to your body, you can get away by dragging your shoe down their shins. If you've ever scraped your shin, you know that person will loosen their grip. You can also try to hit their face with the back of your head.
When driving in an unfamiliar area or out of the country, aside from keeping doors locked, don't leave purses or bags on the seat. Put them on the floor or behind your seat because it's very easy to grab into a window while you're stopped and get you stuff stolen. This has happened to my aunt before and it sucks.
Always leave maneuvering space when at a stop light. If someone tries to get in your car, be able to get around the car in front of you.
Don't ask for directions from a stranger. Best to ask an official (like ticket booth person convenience store worker (some places like 7-11 provide transpiration tickets)). Some strangers will give you wrong directions on purpose. It's an oldie, but a goodie. Still good advice if your mobile device goes kapoot.
To suburban and rural people visiting a city: don't walk on subway grates, cellar doors in the sidewalk, manhole covers or pretty much anything metal. The grates and doors fail on occasion with the unfortunate person falling in and in the winter the salt for snow can corrode the metal and conduct electricity from underground wires. Seriously, dogs have been electrocuted to death.
My gf lived in NYC. If she needed to go to the store at night, she'd wear a karate outfit and carry canned goods in a tote bag to swing at any no-gooders. Thankfully she was never robbed or assaulted
Good advice, and I understand that it can be helpful in certain situations, but boy, it makes me lose faith in humanity. I don’t want to see everyone around me as a criminal. Most of us are good humans that wouldn’t dream of hurting anyone. I always worry about really needing help one day and no one offering it to me because we are being taught to avoid all situations like these. And I also worry that I won’t be able to help someone else because he/she might have sinister intentions.
TL, DR? most of these are from people who had one bad experience and are now paranoid because of it.
Pretty much. I lived in Chicago and currently live in Vegas. Never had half of these problems and Vegas is the homeless capitol (or close to it). Stay out of South Side after dark. Leave "abandoned" shopping carts alone. The whole Uber thing is their own fault.
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These are mostly for Americans or tourists. This is good information for anyone in big cities here. While many other comments think this is ridiculous, it's not. Even if the majority of people are good there are still a few out there just looking for saps to prey on and it's usually the kind of people who think it will never happen to them.
Funny how a lot of the people posting can't imagine how life can be in some parts of the world. Don't be so close minded and blind to think there aren't rough places. These people are sharing from experience. If you find It hard to imagine places like this then count yourself blessed.
All of this makes me thank God for never being involved in nothing tragic until now. And I was born and lived for my first 20 years at the second biggest city at South America. Really dangerous place. Living is always dangerous but now I live far from big cities and feel more safe.
All hypotheses are valid for those who live in Brazil! Good advice and very common sense!
This whole post sets a very dark tone - maybe I am unable to relate because of my "sheltered life" in european suburbs, where nobody carries a gun and crime is on the lowest level since decades. But as paranoid as some of these hacks sound, I understand that they might be necessary in an American context. The yearly murder rate of the USA is a bit over 5 out of 100 000 people, while the same figure for Germany is 0.7. Also gang crime (gangs at all, actually) is basically non-existent here.
Hey guys and gals, I find living in a society that’s not straight out of Mad Max is pretty calm. My town (Buxton, Derbyshire) is very tame, there’s a few loons who partake of a bit too much booze of a Friday night and there’s an estate that you’ll do well to avoid wandering around aimlessly after dark but seriously, most humans aren’t hell bent on fighting, mugging, attacking or stealing your car from you. Be more aware of your surroundings and don’t panic about making you life about living in fear, it’ll only drag you down.
Yeah, that's true. Not many peeps want to risk getting into a tumble with a stranger. I agree these are good tips to be mindful of, like being aware of where the exit sign is in a building.
Load More Replies... It's called the real world. Most people will end up being the victim of some form of property crime in their life, somewhat fewer a violent crime, but life is never wuite the same afterwards.
Load More Replies... The take-away from this post-- trust no one: especially if they are friendly, in need of help or good looking. You've been warned!
I wished I grew up like you did to be this careless about problems/situations in public spaces (I mean it in a good way)
Load More Replies... Look, I get it, be cautious, but really? Who didn't learn at least half of these by age 10? Use. Common. Sense. If you don't have any, then don't drink or do drugs, which right there reduces risks of injury/death. Don't walk around thinking the world is your bestie, with your ears plugged and your eyes on your phone. And you'll soon find that 98% of humanity jsut wants to be left the F alone.
Einstein said, “the problem with common sense, is that it’s not so common.”
Load More Replies... I'm surprised no one mentioned acting "crazy" to make people keep their distance. There's a thing I used to do when using public transport and having to wait a while in a sketchy area of town. If a guy started trying to hit on me, I'd look to the left, look to the right (slowly, as if I wanted to make sure no one was paying attention.) Then I'd put a finger to my lips and whisper, "Shhh ... !" (Another sweeping look around.) "I'm ... not ... really ... heeeere." And then I would tiptoe away. So instead of the guy possibly getting hostile over a rejection, he'd be sitting there thinking, "Whew! Dodged that bullet!" Plus he's got a funny story to tell his friends. Win-win!
If you're walking alone, walk on the side of the road where the sun/ light is hitting. That way you can keep an eye on your shadow and see if anyone tries to sneak up on you.
This is excellent! Also wearing those mirror sunglasses (if they're large enough) you can see who's behind you.
Load More Replies... Get off your d4mn phones when you're walking around and pay attention. You're making yourself a target.
While taking karate, I learned that if an attacker grabs you from behind pinning both your arms to your body, you can get away by dragging your shoe down their shins. If you've ever scraped your shin, you know that person will loosen their grip. You can also try to hit their face with the back of your head.
When driving in an unfamiliar area or out of the country, aside from keeping doors locked, don't leave purses or bags on the seat. Put them on the floor or behind your seat because it's very easy to grab into a window while you're stopped and get you stuff stolen. This has happened to my aunt before and it sucks.
Always leave maneuvering space when at a stop light. If someone tries to get in your car, be able to get around the car in front of you.
Don't ask for directions from a stranger. Best to ask an official (like ticket booth person convenience store worker (some places like 7-11 provide transpiration tickets)). Some strangers will give you wrong directions on purpose. It's an oldie, but a goodie. Still good advice if your mobile device goes kapoot.
To suburban and rural people visiting a city: don't walk on subway grates, cellar doors in the sidewalk, manhole covers or pretty much anything metal. The grates and doors fail on occasion with the unfortunate person falling in and in the winter the salt for snow can corrode the metal and conduct electricity from underground wires. Seriously, dogs have been electrocuted to death.
My gf lived in NYC. If she needed to go to the store at night, she'd wear a karate outfit and carry canned goods in a tote bag to swing at any no-gooders. Thankfully she was never robbed or assaulted
Good advice, and I understand that it can be helpful in certain situations, but boy, it makes me lose faith in humanity. I don’t want to see everyone around me as a criminal. Most of us are good humans that wouldn’t dream of hurting anyone. I always worry about really needing help one day and no one offering it to me because we are being taught to avoid all situations like these. And I also worry that I won’t be able to help someone else because he/she might have sinister intentions.
TL, DR? most of these are from people who had one bad experience and are now paranoid because of it.
Pretty much. I lived in Chicago and currently live in Vegas. Never had half of these problems and Vegas is the homeless capitol (or close to it). Stay out of South Side after dark. Leave "abandoned" shopping carts alone. The whole Uber thing is their own fault.
Load More Replies... These are mostly for Americans or tourists. This is good information for anyone in big cities here. While many other comments think this is ridiculous, it's not. Even if the majority of people are good there are still a few out there just looking for saps to prey on and it's usually the kind of people who think it will never happen to them.
Funny how a lot of the people posting can't imagine how life can be in some parts of the world. Don't be so close minded and blind to think there aren't rough places. These people are sharing from experience. If you find It hard to imagine places like this then count yourself blessed.
All of this makes me thank God for never being involved in nothing tragic until now. And I was born and lived for my first 20 years at the second biggest city at South America. Really dangerous place. Living is always dangerous but now I live far from big cities and feel more safe.
All hypotheses are valid for those who live in Brazil! Good advice and very common sense!
