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Be or at least appear to be observant and aware of your surroundings at all times.
Most attackers look for easy targets who appear to be preoccupied and distracted. By appearing to be alert and aware of what is going on on around, you can make a potential attacker move on to look for an easier target. By being aware of your surrondings and whats going on in them, you are more likely to recognize a potential threat and avoid it.
Utilize the buddy system, whenever possible.
There is safety in numbers, An attacker generally prefers to attack single victims, instead of a group of people. When you are not alone, your ability to be aware of your area increases (the more people there are, the more eyes there are). If their is more than one person during an attack, it increase the chances of atleast one being able to escape and go for help.
Do not give out personal information unless it is absolutely necessary.
Any time you give out any personal information you increase your chances of becoming a victim of a crime. Con men, identity theives, stalkers and other criminals or potential attackers try to develop information on their targets by various means including close contact with victims and buying information from employees who gather personal information. Even what appears to be an innocent conversation, could be a potential burglar trying to find out where you live and how long you are going to be away. Guard personal information just like you would any other valuable, such as cash or jewelery. If you would not hand a person your wallet, don't give them your personal information.
Utilize reflections to observe your surroundings.
Get in the habit of doing this at home, work, town and evry where else you go. By being aware of reflections, you can increase your chances of noticing potential danger and increase your chances of avoiding it. Reflected images does not have to be clear, any blurred image or movement will be enough for you to turn and check what it is. Reflective surfaces are all around you, if you pay attention and are willing to utilize them. Reflective surfaces you can use include but are not limited to: mirrors, windows, reading glasses, drinking glasses, any other glass object, cell phones, metal objects, water, other liquids, any object that will reflect color and/or movement can be utilized. Look around the places you go, I think you will be surprised at how many things you can use once you a aware of them. Make a mental effort to constantly use these objects, untill it becomes a habit. This does not even have to be reflections, a shadow cast from any light source can also be used for awareness or early detection.
Acknowledge people in a positive way when you pass them on the street.
You do not have to engage in derect conversation with everyone you come acroos. A simple smile and nod of your head will do just fine, even a simple "how are you" if you want to take it a bit farther. Remember, most attackers look for victims that are distracted and unaware of their presence. By using simple acknowledging methods, you let them know that you are aware of them in a nonthreatening way. If a potential attacker knows you are aware of them it increases the chance that they will move on and look for easier prey.
If carrying an item (purse, bag, etc.) keep it held tightly to your body.
Once again, most criminals look for the easiest targets. A thief is more likely to take an item that is being held loosely, before he will attempt to take an item that is held tightly and securely. If someone wants to take something from you, don't make it easy on them.
Keep valuables and cash hidden and out of sight.
Temptation can even overcome people who would not normally be criminals. If you flash valubles around you will draw attention from criminals and others looking for easy money, increasing the chance of you becoming a victim of crime. eliminate temptation by keeping valuables out of sight, "out of sight, out of mind".
Avoid isolated and/or dimmly lit areas.
Criminals do not like to draw attention, it increases their chances of being caught. For this reason criminals prefer isolating their victims in isolated and dimmly lit areas. It does not mean that you won't be attacked in other areas, but if you avoid isolated and dimmly lit areas, it can dramatically reduce the chances of you becoming a victim of crime.
Avoid known high crime areas whenever possible.
This one is common sense, anytime you go to a high crime area, you increase your chances of becoming a victim of a crime. Stay away from high crime areas as much as possible.
Utilize security services when needed and available.
Certain establishments (malls, casinos, stadiums, ect.) have onsite security personnel on the property, some will offer customers and visitors specialized security services, such as escort to and from vehicles. To not be afraid or ashamed to ask for and utilize these services, when you feel they are necessary. If someone seems to be following you, tell security personnel and ask them to check them out. If you had to park in an isolated dimmly lit area ask for an escort. If you witness suspicious or criminal activity report it to security personnel. Utilize these services for any legitimate need.
Do not abuse security services when not needed.
Just because these sevices may be available, it does not mean you should abuse these services simply because you think you are paying for them by spending at these establishments. If you abuse these services, you may prevent them from aiding someone who actually needs them. Be responsible and don't be selfish, self-centered or irresponsible. If the area you park in is brightly lit and already has patrolling security close by, then do not ask for a personal escort. Do not report false activity just to play a prank on family or friends or to irritate security personnel. Specialized security services cost extra money and time, If you abuse them they may not be available when you need them.
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