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Pickpockets love the summer, unguarded bags on the beach, handbags hooked on the backs of chairs in restaurants, crowded streets and marketplaces where the unsuspecting holidaymaker would think nothing of someone "accidentally" bumping into them and car windows left open with valuables on display. How do you stop yourself from being a victim?
Like the Boy Scout's motto "Be Prepared". The first thing to think about are the many situations that may occur and to be aware of them. Three things you can do are: Be Aware
Be aware of your surroundings. Take notice of who and what is around you. If you look like a victim there is a greater chance that you will in fact become a victim. To clarify this, the ‘bad guy’ does his homework on body language. He knows for every person that is aware of their surroundings, there will be several people following that are not paying attention to what and who is around them and he will target those individuals. You look like a victim when you are oblivious to your surroundings; i.e. you are always looking down instead of looking forward and around you while walking; if you are too focused on talking on your cell while walking; if you appear lost or if you appear timid instead of confident. Remember; do not confuse CONFIDENCE with ARROGANCE! Being arrogant can sometimes get you into more trouble then being timid. Use a glance, do not stare him down you don’t want to bring on a confrontation with the "bad guy" because of egos. Do not put yourself in compromising situations, for example: Do not carry credit cards or large sums of cash that you do not need. If you are going to the beach take the smallest amount of money you need, preferably in a waterproof container that you can wear. Don't take your passport or any jewelry and wear a waterproof watch so you don't have to leave it on the beach when you go in the sea. That way if your bag does go missing it isn't the end of the world In underground car parks, park in a well lit space as close to the lift or stairs as you can - not in a dark corner. Before you leave you car make sure it is locked. Carry your handbag at the front so you can see if anyone is trying to reach in. Carry your handbag on the side away from the road, many people have had their bags snatched by thieves on passing scooters. Avoid carrying mobile phones, purses/wallets and cards in your hands. When not using them put them away safely. If you need to use your phone, even though you may be distracted you must still be aware of people nearby. Make sure no-one is following you when you have just come from foreign exchange offices, banks, cash machines or any place where you displayed some money. When you return to your car have your keys out ready – don’t be fumbling in your handbag. Look in the windows to check the rear seats prior to getting in. If you are approached while you are loading your car be aware of where your handbag is, I know a number of people who have been asked directions by one person only to find that when they turn back to their car their bag has gone. Once in your car make sure you keep your doors locked. Do not have your windows open when the vehicle is not moving as it is easy for a thief to lean in take something from the passenger seat or even your watch from your wrist before you have time to react. While you are driving, do not pull over for anybody except the police no matter what they are trying to tell you. We tell our children not to talk to strangers yet as adults we rush to the “aid” of someone who says their child/mother is ill without thinking about locking up the car or making sure that our possessions, or for that matter we, are protected. Heed your own advice!
Prepare
Self defence and martial arts are great, however, the drawback is you have to be trained in them. You can equip yourself with various protective devices (i.e. loud alarms, whistles, lighted key chains, etc.) if you have them keep them to hand, the thief is not going to wait until you find it at the bottom of your bag. If you don’t have any of these items you can always shout for help or scream. BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY! Learn from others
The best way to learn is from other people's experiences. You will find out what the latest scam is from the local newspapers. Follow these safety guidelines and you will definitely reduce your chances of becoming a victim. If a criminal approaches you and tries to steal your belongings, it is important to remember not to resist. Your life is more important than your property. Property can always be replaced but not you. Stay safe! Related Articles:
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