Though being in public is nothing to fear, there are several steps you can take to avoid being the victim or an attack or robbery.  As the old adage states, “It’s always better to err on the side of caution.”  Read the following tips to learn how to protect yourself in public and retain a measure of security every time you go out.  Keeping safe in public should always be a top priority.

1. Be aware of your surroundings.  Be as familiar as possible with the area you are in.  Take note and report any suspicious activity taking place around you. 
2. Vary your routine.  If you walk, jog, or bike daily, change up your route from time to time and alter the times you go.  This way, it is less likely that you will be followed or watched. 
3. Let someone else know where you will be.   If you’re going out alone, tell a trusted friend or relative where you will be and how long you will be gone.  This may seem elementary, but if the unthinkable were to happen, this just might save your life. 
4. Act like you know where you are going.  Even if you are lost, keep an assertive demeanor, especially if you are walking.  Look people in the eye without drawing attention to yourself and stay in well-lit, open areas. 
5. Keep your cell phone in your front pocket.  If someone steals your purse or wallet, you will still have your cell phone ready to make an emergency call.  If you are lost, you will be able to call for directions.  And remember:  Don’t flash it around.
6. Save your headphones for the gym.  Walking around city streets with headphones in and music blasting makes it extremely difficult to hear what’s going on around you – sirens, cars, and people behind you.  Use your headphones at home or at the gym so you can be alert to your surroundings in public.
7. Have your car keys ready to go.  When walking to your car, it’s always best to have your keys in hand.  When you get to your car – especially when you have your hands full – scrounging for your keys can make you an easy target.  Get your keys out before you even enter the parking lot, and you’ll do yourself a huge favor.
8. Inspect your vehicle before opening it.  If your car has been parked in a public parking lot for an extended period of time, make sure to check the outside and inside of it before you get in.  Look underneath the car and in the back seat to make sure there is no one hiding. 
9. Once inside your car, drive away.  There have been many instances of attacks on people sitting inside their cars rifling through personal belongings, balancing the checkbook, etc.  Once you get inside your car, immediately lock the doors, then drive home or to your next destination. 
10. If attacked, scream and run.  If you become the victim of an attack, don’t fight back.  Yell “Fire!” instead of “help” as this is usually better at attracting attention.  Run as fast as you can away from the assailant, and seek help in a public place.