With the world turned upside down on its head, first the pandemic and now the world economic crisis, street crime, especially robbing and mugging is at an all time high. While the majority of towns and cities around the world are safe, sometimes you can come across an area with a high crime rate and which definitely increases your chance of being mugged.
The fear of being mugged is common when travelling. Recently, a friend’s son got mugged at gunpoint in broad daylight on a crowded street in the heart of London. You should be aware that you’re always at risk, to some degree.
That is why you need to safeguard yourself, your loved ones, and your property at all times, its normal to let your guard down and to switch back and forth from alertness to being complacent. The bottom line is that you should not be caught snoozing.
Here are some tips to stay aware of your surroundings and not entice muggers —
Don’t wear an upmarket watch or anything that’s “flashy” (read expensive) visibly —
DO NOT stop for anyone, especially if they ask you for the time or to look for directions on your phone. If you do want to help the person out, don’t stop and tell them as you’re walking. When you stop, they can scan you for jewellery, watches and valuables, making you a vulnerable and perfect mark. A valuable watch or phone often suggests you may be carrying other valuables with you like cash and cards. Do not let your guard down. Keep your mobile phone and valuables out of sight. If you’re using your phone it’s more likely to be snatched from your hand as you’re not paying attention to your surroundings, so have eyes at the back of your head too.
Don’t play with your smartphone and avoid listening to music with headphones on while walking on the street —
While multitasking is always a good idea, walking and using your phone (to text, call or listen to music) is not a good idea. It means that you are distracted and the perfect mugging victim.
Make loud noises if you get cornered —
It’s a known fact that muggers prefer targeting men over women because women are more likely to scream and draw attention. It may seem surprising, but when muggers do target a victim, as opposed to choosing one randomly. Even though women are physically less imposing than men, it’s the women who make it more difficult for the attack to take place by creating a scene. That’s why muggers are more likely to target people like men who are less likely to resist.
Don’t be alone —
Even if you’re travelling alone, stand near people, especially at train stations, bus stops or subways. A mugger’s favourite target is anyone who seems alone. The mugger first checks to see if you’re alone, then looks at your other vulnerabilities like gender, age, physicality and state of mind. However be aware of pickpockets in extremely crowded areas.
Don’t walk alone when you’re intoxicated —
Drinking and mugging don’t mix except for the mugger. An intoxicated person is a mugger’s delight and an intoxicated person walking alone is his dream. If you have had a little too much to drink, do not walk alone.
Stick to the route you know —
If you are travelling to a new place, it’s best to walk in a group and avoid dark and dangerous looking bylanes. If you are walking around in your hometown or city, its advisable to stick to the routes you know best. If you are in an unfamiliar place, plan your route, double check that it’s a safe area and take written instructions or a map with you so you don’t get lost.
Avoid uninhabited areas —
Sometimes walking alone is unavoidable. When you find yourself in a situation like this, it’s best to walk in well-lit areas that have pedestrian traffic. Avoid empty train stations, tunnels, alleys or deserted areas.
Nightime is prime time —
The sun sets and the muggers come out to play. Areas with nightlife attract muggers. Always stay in a group and you’re less likely to be targeted by muggers.
Carry pepper spray —
A can of pepper spray in your hand (not your bag or pocket) is the most effective tool you can use if you’re ever targeted. Just the sight of pepper spray can be an effective deterrent.
Be aware of your surroundings —
Always be aware of where you are and what’s around you. Have eyes at the back of your head as well.
Dress like a local —
Try not to stick out like a sore thumb. If you’re visiting a place, try not to dress like a tourist because muggers can spot you from a mile away. Try to blend in as much as possible. The “I ❤ LONDON” tees should be avoided at all costs.
Freaky fridays —
Be extra vigilant on Fridays. This is the day that people are the most ‘cashed up’ and let their guard down.
Lastly, do not fight a mugger —
Unless you are a trained fighter, don’t fight a mugger. You’d rather give up your goods than your life.
To close off —
Keep these points in mind the next time you find yourself in a strange or scary situation. Especially when you’re visiting a new place.
Stay safe!
