How to Avoid Being Mugged

Crime is a frightening reality. However, there are steps you can take to lower the odds of a mugging. Basic safety, planning, common sense and quick thinking are all keys to staying safe at home and on the road.

Instructions

1. Leave expensive watches, sizable diamonds and flash jewelry at home when traveling or venturing through a high crime area. Reduce the invitation to muggers by not displaying valuable necklaces, earrings or other accessories.

2. Get good directions, review them before setting out and make sure they are understood. Make sure to stay on the beaten path. Resist the temptation to "explore" alleys, deserted streets, cemeteries or parks.

3. Talk to locals, a shopkeeper, an innkeeper or hotel concierge about the safest routes when walking to and from various attractions. Find out what areas are trouble spots and avoid them.

4. Walk tall and confidently with shoulders back and chest out and at a good pace so as not to convey fear through body language. Stick out the elbows and walk with great purpose. Look straight ahead but be aware of the surroundings and what is behind.

5. Move out of deserted area as quickly as possible to a populated area. Sing, whistle or wave as though signaling a friend or shopkeeper ahead or above in a window.

6. Move into the center of the street when a wrong turn ends up in a what appears to be a dodgy neighborhood. Stay away from recessed doorways or alley entrances. Move quickly back to the familiar area.

7. Display bizarre behavior when lost in a deserted neighborhood and a threat looms. Make a lot of noise, talk out loud to no one in particular, wave arms around and create the appearance of one who is off the meds in order to put off a potential mugger.

Tips & Warnings

• There is no way to guarantee that you won't be mugged while traveling or even in your own city or neighborhood.