The summer months usually mean vacation time for most families. As the vacation-goer, you might see this as a perfect time to relax, enjoy the warm weather, and explore new places. However, it is also a time that muggers are roaming the streets looking for new prey. Most tourists are walking targets because they are carrying cash, cameras and electronic gadgets, are focused on the surroundings and sometimes might not understand the local language or even know exactly where they are. Because of this, you always need to be aware that as a tourist you are an attractive target for mugging.
Therefore, when traveling you should have a heightened level of awareness about potential muggers and take precautionary measures. Prepare to deal with petty thieves during your vacation by following these top tips to prevent yourself from being mugged:
Always stay in crowded and well-lighted areas
Keep in mind that muggers shy away from places where there are many people around. They like attacking in areas where there is a low probability of being seen and caught. So, always make sure to stay away from dark alleys or deserted parks, especially when you are alone. However, keep in mind that muggers do tend to assimilate into crowds as well. Be aware of pick-pockets who might push up against you in busy subway terminals or tourist attractions like outside the Coliseum in Italy.
Take care in how you dress
Dressing like a tourist with a camera slung around your neck makes you a very attractive target for muggers. Try dressing like the locals and never carry a huge amount of cash with you. Wear your purse slung across the front of your body and hold on carefully to any backpacks or side-bags. Also, try to avoid wearing your best watch or ostentatious jewelry when you go out. This will call too much attention to yourself. Finally, if you must carry a large sum of money or important credit cards, a passport, etc., wear them in a money belt under your pants so it is not easily accessible.
Know your way around
Do not go out by yourself if you are not familiar with the route you want to take. Familiarize yourself with a place first before venturing out on your own. Remember that lost tourists are easy prey for muggers. And, try to stay in a group. Muggers usually go for people walking by themselves rather than for those who are in groups.
Following all these top tips to prevent yourself from being mugged can probably save not just your wallet, but also your life. So, always be aware of everything when on vacation and you will be fine.
Act as if you are sure about where you are going
Even if you are already lost, don't show it. Always walk as if you know where you are going and what you are doing. Looking lost or wandering around without direction makes you an ideal target. Walk with determination and a strong stride.
Ride a bike instead of taking a walk
There are many bikes for rent for tourists. So, instead of going on foot all the time, why don't you try riding a bike? Being able to move speedily in and out of a street presents you as a difficult target than when you are just a pedestrian.
Stay away from known hazardous spots in town
As much as you can, do not venture into notorious hazardous spots in town, especially during times when there are few people around. If you are unsure where these places are, you can talk to friendly locals or the concierge at your hotel to make sure you aware of dangerous neighborhoods.
Always be alert for probable danger
Lessen the possibility of being mugged by ensuring that you are attentive to your environment and veer away from distractions. Do not talk on the phone or wear your headphones or read a map while walking. All these make you an easy target for mugging because you tend to pay more attention to these activities than what is going around you. To learn more about theft prevention, or if you have been convicted of the crime, try online theft education classes. These courses are designed for individuals who need to take program related to petty theft, larceny, shoplifting or stealing. You can take them from the convenience of your own home and they often fulfill court requirements.
