What are the origins of this fun-filled festive custom?
In all scenarios, but especially unfamiliar ones, if something feels off, trust yourself and remove yourself from the situation.
Many people don't think about potential exits or how to get out of public spaces should the need arise. However, taking the time to be aware of exits in buildings can save your life in an emergency situation.
If ever an emergency does arise, knowing a few self-defense moves can save your life. You can even find quick tutorials online for how to best defend yourself.
While many of us value our uniqueness, it’s best to try and not stand out too much in unfamiliar places.
Always be mindful of what's happening around you. Occasional quick glances around and being cognizant of noises nearby can help keep you safe.
It might be tempting to flash fancy jewelry, but this will make you a target. Avoid displaying expensive items in public.
Whether it’s a wall charger or battery pack, always have something with you to give your phone a little battery. A charged phone can be a lifeline.
Sticking to well-lit, populated areas whenever possible is always a good idea. Once you venture into dark spaces, it’s easier for someone to target you and get away unseen.
Before any trip or even in your home country, understanding local customs can prevent misunderstandings and keep you safer.
ATMs are often hot targets for an attack, as thieves have access to you while you're not paying attention. Avoid using ATMs at night or in isolated areas.
Especially when traveling, ensure that you are carrying some cash in a separate place from your wallet. Spreading your money out means if you are robbed, hopefully one hidden place will still have cash.
Be cautious about the personal information you share with people you don’t know or don’t know well. People can try and convince you that they are trustworthy. Trust your gut and don’t share when you shouldn't.
Backup plans will give you a way to quickly exit a situation should you need to. Be sure to always have an alternative way to get home or a friend you can contact.
Having even a basic understanding of your legal rights can help in encounters with law enforcement. Be respectful, but stand your ground if you are in the right.
When drinking or while using substances, our mindset can be severely altered. Being cognizant of what and how much we are consuming can help you be more aware, especially in unfamiliar settings.
Picking up your phone and pretending to be on a call can actually deter unwanted attention.
While it’s nearly impossible to know someone completely or their intentions, practice being able to gauge people and their intent, as it can prevent potential dangers.
Know where you're going and how to get there safely. Walk with intent, as it will help you seem more like a local rather than a tourist or a potential target.
Scammers often prey on the naive. If you feel like something is too good of a deal, trust yourself and avoid it.
If a criminal does try to take your purse, let them. Nothing you own is worth being harmed to protect.
Though tense situations can be stressful and anxiety-provoking, you want to do your best to keep calm, as it can help deescalate a situation.
Sources: (BuzzFeed) (Helpful Professor)
Especially in very crowded places like bars or clubs, always keep an eye on your drink to avoid tampering.
Have you ever been in a situation where being aware and on your toes saved your life? Unfortunately, there are ill-intentioned people in the world who might target an unsuspecting victim. And that victim could be you. It’s essential to have street smarts when you’re out and about in the world. Whether in your own neighborhood or halfway across the globe, street smarts can literally save your life.
Street smarts are acquired through life experiences, versus book smarts, which are learned in a more traditional classroom setting. Some of the smarts on this list will likely be new for you, but all are easy to learn and even quicker to implement.
Avoiding earphone use altogether is suggested. However, if you must wear them, be sure to keep the volume low or use only one side to stay aware.
Street smarts: essential urban survival tips
How to outsmart danger
LIFESTYLE Safety
Have you ever been in a situation where being aware and on your toes saved your life? Unfortunately, there are ill-intentioned people in the world who might target an unsuspecting victim. And that victim could be you. It’s essential to have street smarts when you’re out and about in the world. Whether in your own neighborhood or halfway across the globe, street smarts can literally save your life.
Street smarts are acquired through life experiences, versus book smarts, which are learned in a more traditional classroom setting. Some of the smarts on this list will likely be new for you, but all are easy to learn and even quicker to implement.
So, curious to learn how to stay safe using street smarts? Click through to learn more.