Introduction
Staying safe in our society relies heavily on people following certain rules and guidelines. However, it's inevitable that some people will disregard rules, whether intentionally or not. This can make public spaces unpredictable and potentially dangerous. As an individual, you are ultimately responsible for your own safety. Even when others aren't following the rules, there are still steps you can take to reduce risks and avoid hazards.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
The first line of defense is being alert and aware of what's going on around you. Here are some tips:
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Scan the environment frequently. Look ahead and check your peripheral vision. Notice potential hazards or threatening behaviors.
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Listen for concerning noises like aggressive shouting or screams. Tune in to conversations around you.
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Be aware of exits and escape routes. Locate stairs, doors, and other paths to safety.
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Watch for signs of intoxication, mental illness, or aggression in others. Move away from unstable individuals.
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At night, stick to well-lit areas with other people around. Avoid deserted streets and parks.
Have an Escape Plan
When others clearly don't care about rules or laws, it's wise to mentally prepare an escape plan in case a dangerous situation arises.
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Identify safe places like restaurants or stores you can duck into. Don't wait until an emergency happens.
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Carry a fully charged cell phone so you can call for help if needed. Save emergency numbers in your contacts.
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Stay near the edges of crowds and away from potential bottlenecks. This gives you an easier escape route.
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Scope out subway cars and ride near the door if sketchy people are inside. Plan where you would run or drive to.
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Pack a small safety kit with a flashlight, whistle, pepper spray, bandages, etc. This can help if you need to get out of somewhere quickly.
Avoid Confrontation
When rules are being broken, some people's instinct is to call out the offenders and try enforcing the rules themselves. This can quickly escalate tensions though. Here's how to avoid confrontation:
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Don't engage or start arguments. Remain calm and don't react emotionally.
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Politely ask them to stop their behavior, but don't order or lecture them. Suggest alternatives.
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Notify authorities like security or police to intervene according to protocol. Don't put yourself in harm's way.
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Move away from rule breakers and problematic individuals. Removing yourself often defuses situations.
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If you feel extremely unsafe, agree with them outwardly until you can get to safety, even if you disagree internally.
Travel in Groups
There is safety in numbers. When others around you seem unconcerned with rules and social order, stick close to friends or family members.
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Buddy up when going out at night and arrange to leave together.
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Agree on plans and check-ins with companions in case someone gets separated. Exchange locations.
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Look out for each other if one of you feels ill or gets severely intoxicated. Don't let anyone wander off alone.
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Diffuse arguments between your friends and aggressive strangers. Stand together against antagonists.
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Intervene if it's safe when one of your group is being harassed. Draw attention and discourage threats.
Conclusion
It can be stressful and frightening when others disregard rules and laws around you. However, by staying alert, avoiding conflicts, planning escape routes, and sticking with trusted friends, you can still take control and prioritize your own safety, even if no one else seems to care. Don't let a lack of security paralyze you. Take sensible precautions to protect yourself.