Safety at night
NOWADAYS, it is not rare to get robbed by thieves on the street.
As children, you are vulnerable to being mugged and intimidated by thugs. You must be aware of the risks that night-time brings.
Below are some tips you can observe to protect yourself and your life, and keep street thieves at bay.
Stick with a crowd
Never ever think you are batman and do not need company at night. Even if you have been to a stretch of the road many times before, do not travel there alone in the dark.
Beware of petty thieves
Thieves who engage in pickpocketing will survey the crowd and single out a victim before making a move, even in crowded spaces and in broad daylight. Then they will snatch and disappear among the crowd, even in plain sight.
Beware of robbers
Robbers are different. They do not like to be seen and therefore will move around under a cover of darkness or in secluded spots. They organise themselves, plan their moves and will use force and violence to get what they what.
Stay in the light
Avoid walking in dark places where you won't notice people and won't make people notice you. If you are in a car, park in a well-lit space. Thugs thrive in the dark because they know they are hard to spot and stop.
Alert the police
If you have reason to believe someone is stalking you and your gut feeling tells you something does not seem right, walk somewhere you can access help. Call the police and raise an alarm.
Stay aware
Situational awareness means being aware of what's going on around you and asking yourself if anything or anyone could be a threat to your health and safety. It is important for making vital decisions during life-threatening situations.
Give them your wallet
Thieves and robbers are normally only after your cash and valuables. If you're robbed and asked to hand over your mobile or money, give them what they want. It is not worth risking your life by protecting what's in your wallet or pocket.
Avoid strangers
It is good to be friendly but not to strangers in the dark. Always treat strangers you meet or walk past with suspicion, even if they seem needy by asking for time or directions.
Your voice is your weapon
If you ever get into a situation when you are mugged, know that one of your best weapons is your voice. Shout at the top of your lungs as if your life depends on it. Screaming and yelling attracts attention and these make robbers flee faster.
Fill your pocket
Most people who lose mobile phones to thieves do so because they make culprits know they have a phone by holding it in the palm of the hand. Put your phone and valuables in your pocket and walk freely.
Remove your earphones
While walking in the night, listening to loud music in the night using ear phones can vastly reduce your awareness of the environment and what's happening around you. You will never be able to notice someone sneaking from behind you or yelling to warn you.
Learn self-defence
Sign up for a self-defence class to remove your fear and build your confidence. When you develop the attributes to be able to protect yourself, the chances of you becoming a victim diminishes.
Finally, remember that while we have every right in the world to enjoy a street stroll at night, our safety and security is first and foremost our responsibility.