3 Ways to Stay Safe

Two days ago an incident at work has reminded me that it's very important to stay alert to your surroundings. Here is what happened. Man wanted to be my friend. I said no. Man started following me around my work. Granted that the incident happened at my place of work, bad things can happen anywhere.

I never thought anything weird would happen while I was at work (that stuff only happens in the movies, right? If that's the case, where's my hot guy that's supposed to ward of the strange man from me?)

The fact is, we all tend to become too comfortable with our surroundings. Now, I'm not saying to become paranoid and to watch every single person that comes your way like a hawk. I'm just saying it would really benefit you to be aware of your environment.

I have come up with 3 ways that could help me, and anyone else, on becoming safer:

1. Taking a bus/train ride

Taking that long bus or train ride can be really boring and tiresome. But if you decide to listen to your iPod, play with your phone/iPad, or read, just know that you are letting yourself become more vulnerable. I am totally guilty of doing all three. It's important to remember that if you are going to do this, then to not let yourself become completely absorbed with what you are doing. Especially if you're traveling alone. We all want you to make it back to your place in one piece so you could hear that thing that happened the other day your mother wanted to tell you about...or maybe not, but you get the picture.

2. At your work place (esp. if your job requires customer service)

If you're like me and your job requires you to talk and interact with customers, I bet you barely have a moment's peace while you're on the clock. This is one place where not too many people think about their vulnerability (esp. if you're not a cop). I work at a clothing store for women, so the worst thing I thought I would have to worry about is a possible punch from someone trying to run with a bunch of unpurchased items (if only). You're going to greet customers all day; the nice ones and the really weird ones. If at any time you feel uncomfortable because of a customer, don't be afraid to let your manager know. You cannot say anything, in case it may come out offensive and then that's a whole other thing you have to worry about, but your manager or supervisor can. Their job is to settle the conflict. They are the peace keepers, so don't be afraid to ask for help if you really feel that your interaction with said customer is going down-hill. You can bet I ran to my customer when Man was starting follow me on the floor. Um, thank you, but no.

3. Taking a walk

For the love of god, do not walk down a deserted alley late at night! I don't care if it is quicker to your destination. You never know if there is something waiting for you in a dark corner. Use your common sense people! It's easier for other people to not notice if you need any help if you are in there, not to mention it's easier for the strange man to target you. Just don't do it, okay? Also, don't forget that if you are taking a walk with people around, not paying attention to your surroundings is also easy for you to get pick-pocketed or mugged. That amazing song on your iPod or text from that cute boy from class does not need your 100% attention. Yes, the text could mean a potential date that could lead to that dream wedding and house with two kids and a dog, but what's better? Becoming a better target and risk your hard-earned stuff or ending up at home with all your hopes and dreams still intact? Plus, you can think of an awesome text to send back to said crush that could lead you to that dream wedding. I'm just saying.

Hope this helps. I know for a fact that I'm going to try to follow these rules. The last thing I need is more stress added to my already growing to-do list. I definitely do not want to add: file stolen item. I work hard for my stuff and I dare anybody to try to take it away!

That is all.