Did you know that only 62% of women and 79% of men feel safe walking alone at night? According to a recent survey, many people feel apprehensive about strolling solo. And considering how many random acts of violence can occur on the street, the feeling is understandable.
Do you have to walk alone at night? If so, it is important to be aware of your surroundings at all times and take the necessary precautions to keep yourself safe. Check out these five safety tips for walking alone in the dark so that you are ready.
1. Bring a Phone
One of the first steps in safeguarding yourself is a simple one: bring your phone with you! This will enable you to call for help in case you are uncomfortable or find yourself in a dangerous situation. But don’t talk on your phone while on your walks, because this is a distraction–instead, stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
2. Use an App
Speaking of phones, there are many great walk-safe apps out there today. You can download one on your phone that can alert the authorities if you’re threatened. It can also provide location services and other information to friends and family about your whereabouts as a precaution or in the event of an emergency.
3. Carry Mace or Pepper Spray
If you want to be proactive about defending yourself, you can carry mace or pepper spray–just be sure to check the pepper spray laws in your area first. They come in tiny canisters that fit in a pocket, purse or attach to a belt loop via a carabiner. Spraying an attacker can buy you enough time to run away and escape if you are accosted by someone on your walk.
4. Walk in Well-lit Areas
Another good preventative step against potential violence is to walk in well-lit areas. Avoid dark side streets, and try to stay in populated areas. Stay away from deserted areas like empty parking garages.
5. Wear a Defense Ring When Walking Alone
If you want to walk alone with confidence you can invest in a defense ring. There are many different kinds of rings that are designed to act as a weapon should you be attacked while walking alone at night. Should you be attacked you can use it to defend yourself against your attacker.
Stay Safe on Your Walks
Now that you have learned the top safety tips for walking alone, you can be proactive. You can take steps to protect your well-being, like walking in well-lit areas while bringing your phone and using a walk-safe app. There are also defensive measures like carrying mace and wearing a defense ring that can bring you peace of mind that you’re ready in case of an attack.
Did you find this article informative? Want to learn more useful tips and tricks? If so, check out some of the other great content on this site.
