Never Dainty

In this day and age, there is a need to refine the ancient art of street smarts. It is not because we have developed a sudden case of paranoia or some other psychotic trait. But merely a step towards precaution.

For the past few days, there has been an increase of instances where more and more people get robbed on their way to work. These robberies most likely happen to those who work in call centers and other jobs which require job shifts to start at such unholy hours. Since there is nothing that can be done to address the work schedules, it is a must to apply some precautions to help us from suffering the worst in robberies in these situations.

I have come up with some ideas that could make the most out of robberies and when travelling alone. Although these things may not suit you, but at least it would give you some ideas as to which best suits you.

1. Wear comfortable footwear. When commuting, it is always best to wear comfortable shoes. This comes in handy when somebody has snatched your bag or purse. If you think you can do it, you can pursue the culprit better if you can run better. And you can also run for help easier, too! And if you managed to have a firm grip on your bag, the weight of your work-shoes should provide the additional *umph!* if you choose to hit him/her with it.
2. Do not carry a lot of cash. When commuting, or simply going around town, I believe it is best to carry a small amount of cash. At least when somebody tries to grab your bag and gets away with it, you could always call people immediately and just cancel your cards.
3. Hide your cash in your person. After an incident early this week of somebody getting robbed close to my house, my husband suggested that I do not put my money inside my bag. That way, when somebody robs you and asks for your bag, you can hand it over and still have your money safe. I dont know about you, but I have resorted to putting my bills in a small pouch and tucked inside my bra - just when I travel to work at 6 a.m.
4. Leave your cards at home. Leaving your cards at home is a good thing, too. Not only does it help you save money from robbers, but it also helps you save money from your spending! Just bring enough money for your expenses and a little extra for emergencies. Nothing more, nothing less.
5. Have somebody accompany you. There have been many instances of robberies right after payday. Some people have availed of salary loans and when this happens, the credit company keeps the ATM card and they withdraw all your funds for you. When you have your salary in hand, go home directly. Either that, or run straight to the bank and deposit it. Do not go around down with your moolah. Some robbers dont exactly care if you're a millionaire or if you just have a couple of hundreds. If they want it, they want it.
6. Dress normal. Most of the time, anything that glitters catches a robber's attention. If you are not a bodyguard toting socialite, then perhaps you should try to be a fashionista without the UBER bling bling that yells "I'm bloody rich!!" because if you do, I bet you a hundred dollars that you will be eyed on and as quickly as you can say "Snap!" you're either at gun point, knife point, or simply dumbstruck that your earrings are gone without you noticing it.

These are only a couple of my ideas but I would be happy to hear any tricks up your sleeve. :)

Labels: how to, personal safety, street smarts, tips, tricks