Easy Peasy Guide to Not Getting Mugged

The road is full of unpredictable people. Sometimes you meet pleasant ones who smile at you if you stare at them too long (though I find this awkward and just plain freaky), other times it's a thief who wants your goodies. I don't have a car so I've got no choice but to learn literal street smarts to go home with complete belongings after a day's exploration.

Tip #2: Never be distracted! (photo from Photobucket)

Here are some tips!

1. Stay on the middle or the left part of the sidewalk

I've heard news before about motorcycles using duo tactics to snatch handbags. The guy behind the motorcycle driver can easily steal the handbag by driving by the victim and grabbing the bag if at hand's reach. 

The story of wisdom!

This almost happened to me since I was walking alone at night. The motorcycle swerved towards my direction even if there was no obstacle for him to avoid. I was alert of course, so I stepped away from the road and he left me alone. Yeah, victory pose time!

2. Never be distracted

Thieves usually work in groups, with their usual tactic of targeting the unaware victim. One of them will use ways to distract you, and while you're attention is elsewhere, bam! The other guy will strike like an eagle and will leave you updating your FB status of "Dayum! Guys my phone got snatched #iamsad"

The story of wisdom!

My sister was riding a jeep when a "passenger" (aka evil guy 1) puked on the victim. So while the victim went "eew" and the other "passenger 2" (aka evil guy 2) said something like "here give me your bag so I can help wipe the puke away". Overly trusting victim did, and when the bag returned, the phone was gone. The thief managed to get away

3. Keep doors and windows locked and closed

This is very basic, but a lot of people I ride the car with still forget so I lock it for them. It's very easy for thieves to open doors when it's unlocked (obviously haha). Also open windows make it easy access for them to reach in and grab your earrings.

The story of wisdom!

My classmates and I were riding a bus with an open window since it was hot. One of my classmates wore a hat. The street child grabbed it from the window and said "akin na lang ha?" "this is mine, okay?" and ran away. We were all like whuuuut?

In any part of the world, there is probably at least a thief in the area while you are travelling to work, on a vacation, wherever. Prevention is better than cure!

 Do you have any travel safety tips?

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