There are a lot of great reasons to live in a city. They usually have great job opportunities, public transport, diversity, culture, and lots of entertainment options. However, they also usually have high rates of crime. Living in a city can put your personal safety at risk.
Follow these personal safety tips to stay safe while living in a big city
It’s not just violent crime and homicide that make living in a big city dangerous when it comes to your personal safety. The threat of theft, assault or simply being harassed can turn some people off to spending time in or moving to the city.
Here are some simple personal safety tips that, when followed, allow you to enjoy living in or visiting the city, without fear.
Be Alert At All Times
When you’re in a city, you end up spending time around large numbers of people that you don’t know. Most strangers are harmless, but you need to be alert at all times because you never know when you might cross paths with a dangerous one.
To remain alert, do not look down at your phone. Put your phone away and look all around you, pay attention and be aware of your surroundings. If you are looking down at your phone you may not see yourself entering a dangerous situation.
If a stranger does approach you, do your best to get away as quickly and matter-of-factly as possible. Distance yourself physically from the person so that he or she cannot touch or grab you. If possible, move to a well-lit and well-populated area so there are other people around who could assist.
If the person becomes aggressive, immediately call – and yell! – for help from those around you. Sometimes others aren’t paying attention, and they wouldn’t even realize the stranger poses a risk to your personal safety until you cry out. If he or she tries to touch or grab you, do whatever it takes – kicking, biting, hitting – to remove yourself from the situation.
Look Confident
Try to look confident and sure of yourself. Even if you are lost, or unfamiliar with which subway stop you need to take, do your best to appear knowledgeable and savvy. Research the public transportation route beforehand, so you know where you want to get on/off. Don’t linger in the subway after you exit, either. Instead, immediately find your way to the exit and out to the street. If you’re walking, consult your smartphone’s map before heading out. So you are aware of the route, street names, etc. on the way to your destination.
While walking, hold your head high, maintain a brisk pace, and always keep one hand free. If possible, avoid walking alone, to reduce the appearance of being an “easy target.”
Carry Protection
To give yourself an added layer of protection and confidence, carry something with you that can be used to fend off an attacker. Mace, pepper spray, and even stun guns (where legal) are tools that you can employ if someone tries to attack you. Carrying your car keys between your fingers can create an instant weapon to jab an attacker with as well.
There are also companies that manufacture weapons like knives, tasers, and kubatons that come on a keychain. These weapons are discreet and easy to carry in your hand for that added feeling of confidence, too.
Carry The Silent Beacon Wearable Safety Device With You
The Silent Beacon safety device pairs with the free Silent Beacon app. Simply load up to seven contacts (including emergency personnel), set up your preferences, and you’re prepared for any emergency. In the event of an emergency situation, you can use Silent Beacon to call any number including 911 while sending multiple people your live GPS location by text and email.
With the Silent Beacon’s GPS technology, first responders will be able to pinpoint your location in real time, and can track your footsteps as you move. This ability saves precious time in identifying where you are. As you wait for help to arrive, you can speak with your emergency contact through the device.
In sensitive situations, you can disable the LED lights and audio to silently notify your emergency contacts without revealing that you’ve activated the Silent Beacon. When calling for help in silent mode, your voice can be heard through the Beacon, but your contact’s voice will be muted.
Unlike competing devices, Silent Beacon requires ZERO monthly or hidden fees. Once you purchase your device you won’t have to worry about additional fees or setup costs.
Enjoying Big Cities
Again, there are many great reasons to live in a city. There is a recent trend where people are moving back to cities in record numbers. You deserve to enjoy all the nightlife, cultural events, and conveniences that cities have to offer – without fearing for your personal safety.
Follow these personal safety tips to help ensure you stay safe while enjoying the city. The Silent Beacon is ideal for anyone who wants extra protection and peace of mind.