Some crimes can't be prevented, but there are certain things you can do to reduce the likelihood of being attacked and to protect yourself.Read on to find out how.
Step 1: Know your surroundings.
People who are distracted by their cell phones are easy targets for pickpockets.You can protect yourself and your belongings by keeping an eye on what is happening around you.It's a good idea to glance behind you every now and then to make sure you don't get followed.Identifying the attacker as soon as possible is the best way to defend yourself in the event of an attack.While walking down the street, you should avoid reading maps or fumbling through your purse or backpack as these things consume all of your attention and make you more vulnerable to attacks.Before you leave the hotel or hostel, you should get directions to your destination.
Step 2: Make sure your belongings are secure.
Keep valuable possessions out of sight to avoid being pickpocketed.When you need them, take them out of your purse or backpack.It's tempting to have your phone out at all times to text, play games, or look up directions, but keep in mind that smartphone theft is on the rise for this very reason.You may want to bring a book or magazine with you if you use public transportation.
Step 3: If you want to look like a tourist, try not to.
Tourists are often targeted by pickpockets because they carry a lot of cash and are unfamiliar with their surroundings.If applicable, adopt the local style of dress so that you can blend in with the locals.If you want to draw attention to the fact that you are a tourist, avoid walking around busy streets while reading a map.If you are using a map to navigate your way around a new city, look for a private place that's indoors, like a cafe or convenience store, instead of going out on the street.
Step 4: Stay positive.
In the event that you are attacked, drugs and alcohol can impair your ability to defend yourself.Don't accept drinks from strangers and leave your beverage unattended if you do drink.Some date rapists use tasteless chemicals to lace their victims' drinks.Unless the bartender makes the drink for you, don't accept a drink from a stranger.
Step 5: Group travel is possible.
Criminals are less likely to attack people in groups.Walking around town alone at night is an easy target for criminals because there is no one to help defend you or serve as a witness.If you can't get a friend or family member to accompany you to your destination at night, then take a cab.
Step 6: You can stay in the well-lit parts of town.
There are less law enforcement and fewer potential witnesses in dark streets.If you are walking down the sidewalk at night, stay as close to the street as possible, as criminals may be waiting in alleys for a chance to attack passersby.
Step 7: The person is on a bike.
It is easier for a rapist to attack a person on foot than it is on a bicycle.If you are traveling by yourself, ride a bike instead of walking.
Step 8: Determine if you're in danger.
Don't be afraid to look behind you if you suspect that you are being followed.If you can, look at the person directly in the face and see that you are aware of what's going on and can defend yourself.Ask the potential attacker for a while, as criminals prefer to attack people who haven't had a chance to see their face.
Step 9: Seek safety
If you think you are being followed, the first thing you should do is determine if you can escape without having to confront the attacker.If there are any groups of people around, walk or run in that direction.If there is no one around or if they are too far away, then you need to take action against your attacker.
Step 10: Draw your attention to yourself.
This is the best way to scare off a criminal as he or she will be afraid of being caught.If you have a whistle, blow it and scream at the top of your lungs.Say things like "Fire!""Help!""Stop following me!"As loud as possible.People will run to see what is happening if there are people around."Dad!" is a good example of yelling something specific.This will trick the criminal into thinking that there is someone nearby who knows where you are and who will protect you.If you start yelling before the person has a chance to cover your mouth or threaten to hurt you, it will be more effective.
Step 11: It's a good idea to put as much distance between you as possible.
Run as fast as you can.Pull out your wallet and throw it on the ground as you run to make sure the criminal doesn't see it.If the person is after your money, they will most likely stop chasing you and pick up your wallet.
Step 12: You should arm yourself for an attack.
If screaming and running don't deter the criminal, then continue moving in the direction of safety, and while you do, pull out any potential weapons you have on you.If you carry pepper spray, now is the time to put it in your bag.Weapons that could be used include pocket knives, keys, or heavy objects.As you move toward safety, keep your weapon in your hand.It is possible to prevent an attack if you show the criminal that you are armed.If you have pepper spray, pull it out and point it at the criminal.I have pepper spray.
Step 13: Call the police if you have a problem.
Pull out your cell phone and call the police.It's a good idea to notify the attacker that you're making the call.Leave me alone.I am calling the police.
Step 14: Don't back down.
If the criminal grabs you and starts to assault you, use whatever weapons you have to hurt the other person.They should be kicked in the eyes, scratched with their nails, sprayed with pepper spray, and so on.If you have a heavy object like a textbook, try to knock the person unconscious by hitting them on the side of the head.As you fight back against your attacker, keep screaming and drawing attention to yourself.The longer you scream, the more likely it is that someone will hear you.
Step 15: To report crimes, always do it to the police.
It's important to inform the police of what happened once you've made it to safety.It is possible that saving the lives of other potential victims will happen.To help the police find the attacker as soon as possible, describe their physical appearance, location, gender, and style of dress.