THREE Things That Make Us Easy Targets

[@zacker05]

When I was around 11 years, old, I was waiting for a bus to go to the mall when a man in a large, white car pulled up to the bus stop, swung open the passenger door and offered me a ride. It had started to rain and he used that as a reason to try and gently coax me into the car. My guts screamed no and I declined the ride, but he kept at it, more forcefully. My guts were still screaming and I suddenly looked at him and then pointed down the road, and I said "the bus is coming and I'm meeting my friend on the bus.". He gave me the angriest, frustrated look, slammed shut the passenger door and sped off. I really think I escaped a tragic situation that day. Always listen to your guts.

[@lynnekirkup984]

❤❤❤❤yes. You did escape a trafficking situation..thank GOD😊😊😊

[@inkey2]

Something similar happened to me and my brother around 1962. We were walking down an alley way in our suburban Boston city.....not far from our house. This fat man in a car parked down the end of the alley yelled at us....hey kids want some candy as he had the door of his car open? Well my parents drilled us our entire life (short life as it was ) to be suspicious of "any" stranger. My brother and I instantly looked each other in the eyes and freaked. We immediately turned around and ran. The man had this smiling, crazed, maniacal look on his face.

[@privateprivate8366]

@@zacker05 yes! It’s often the anger, once you’ve said no, that alerts you to the fact that there was danger. I remember, as a child, about 7 years old, getting off the bus, to go to dance school. It was pouring rain. A man got off with me, grabbed my umbrella and walked me across the street. I hadn’t even noticed him, while on the bus. It’s possible he sensed my fear and discomfort and parted. But, it was an early lesson, about people watching you. I’ve relearned about this, as an adult. Although I don’t know that he was a predator or not, my boss and president of the company, some years ago, who looked like he never even wanted to see me, suddenly started chasing me 👉🏽 after 7 years. Chase lasted about 4 years. He was HOT AF. But it was weird and I never let anything happen. I’ve also had neighbors (female), who I later found were not only watching me, but had decided I’d be working for them, which was also an epic fail, for them. There are people, like that guy I worked for, who you may never know are watching you, intently. They may not even look at you. But, they are listening/eavesdropping, researching you (sometimes via internet or opening your packages and mail). The eery thing about it, that I’ve found, is that some of these people, male or female, have long begun some relationship with you and have started making decisions with or for you. They can become flustered, frustrated, flummoxed and even incredulously angry, because you either didn’t know, wouldn’t comply, if they felt seen or, sometimes, unseen. All the time, you were just going about your business, providing a neighborly, “Hi.” But, they’ve already decided, they wanted to kidnap you, have a relationship with you, perhaps sexually, for you to be their caregiver or child’s nanny. The reasons can vary. But, that overall picture often seems much the same.

[@dawnewinonamoore9364]

You BEAT SATAN that Day and lived to tell about it😮😮😮😢😢😢😮😮😮❤❤❤❤❤❤❤😊😊😊

[@inkey2]

Odd that my story was deleted. I can't imagine why.

[@pdxmtngoat]

Convenience stores, gas stations, grocery store parking lots are best visited during the daytime if possible. Keep your head on a swivel.

[@frankalexander5401]

U.S. Army combat veteran here. The most important lesson I brought back from my military service was to always be “situationally aware” of one’s surroundings at all times!!! Go Army!!

[@liljimitwofeatherz9735]

12b combat engineers demolition experts..bridge building

[@xeray6032]

My dad was seconded to British Special Ops in WWII. He would teach us to take care of ourselves when we were children, we were learning without our even knowing it. He would say if you fall off something "hit the ground rolling". I was thrown from a large stallion in my teens when the rein dropped as the person handing me the rein dropped it while handing it to me. The horse stepped forward as it dropped and yanked it's own head down and got a fright! It reared up and threw me to the ground in a second. I was airborne and in my head I was saying HIT THE GROUND ROLLING. I could hear my sister screaming on the other side of the horse as I was rolling. The horse was coming down on the spot I had landed and from where she stood she could not see me rolling and thought she was watching me being killed by the horse. You are never too cool for school. My dad also said that if anyone ever puts their hands on you and tries to move you DROP to the ground and become a ball. The things the UHNW people pay a lot of money for the children to be taught.

[@whiskeythree1622]

"Always use 3 points of contact" has been gold for me. That's one of my best take-aways from time in service.

[@goodboybupbup]

Yup! I trust my spidey senses.

[@jamespell8091]

I totally deficiate in this category. Plus I do trust to a fault. I do have envy in you. My father was too tall to fly in the Air Force. I thought maybe I could follow in his steps. I guess I talked myself out of it because of my grades. I have bad life habits. I'm glad that I maintain employment.

[@deborrahg.9764]

This happenned years ago. I was a 25 year old female. stopped at a red light, when I caught some guy in a business suit and a briefcase running full out towards my car out of the corner of my eye. Old style car with button locks, and I leaned across and locked it just as he grabbed the handle and tried to get in. My heart was pounding so hard! As I took off, he kind of flew back. I never got in my car again without locking all the doors first. I still remember every second of it like it happenned yesterday.

[@deborahkurek2988]

OMG, I bet that put the fear in you. I can feel my heart pound just reading this. Self awareness is so important. ❤❤❤❤❤ Thank you for speaking about this, protecting other vulnerable women

[@Mick_Ts_Chick]

@@deborahkurek2988 Yes, agreed. I'm old school in some things, but I was SO glad when power locks came in cars! Can be lifesaver. I still like the dimmer switch on the floor though, lol.

[@Xyz321jkl]

Tip #1, stay away from people as much as you can.

[@CatherineBirch-m5r]

@@Xyz321jkl I do, and it seems to. Work.

[@privateprivate8366]

Yeah, I find things like saying hello, being cordial, even civil, cause some very big problems. I am not exaggerating.

[@alfredpaquin3563]

I like that idea the best. As "Mike Hammer" said, "If you're not in the picture, you can't get framed."😊

[@privateprivate8366]

@@alfredpaquin3563 that’s hilarious for me, because I caught my former sister on security cam, stealing my mail. She claimed it wasn’t her, but the police didn’t believe her. Moral is, of course, “If you weren’t in the picture, you wouldn’t have gotten framed.”🤣🤣🤣

[@breezeway3410]

​@privateprivate8366 YOU ARE NOT LYING!! 😬 It makes u start 2 become c🥶ld towards others 2 protect yourself, because u can't just be a normal civilized respectful decent human being 2 regular everyday people anymore it really seems😮‍💨

[@larryherbert252]

I don’t answer my front door unless I’ve made an appointment with someone to arrive at a specified time etc- good content

[@musings6307]

good, and I give soem passwords/codes

[@Mick_Ts_Chick]

I absolutely don't open my door to anyone I don't know! It's just not safe.

[@sydneyknutsen2492]

Excellent advice. I do the same. If I do not know who is behind that door it stays shut.

[@madelinemaize1426]

Im a native New Yorker. My mom taught me to walk with purpose, dont get distracted, and keep your head on a swivel. It works. You can spot trouble in time to avoid it.

[@Lou-n7o-m4t]

@@madelinemaize1426 what does it mean “ on a swivel?”

[@madelinemaize1426]

@LaurieTurner-n7o It means to be keeping your eyes out for what's going on all around you, not just what is in front of you.

[@Mszman]

My Mom always said keep your doors locked… Car, house etc. Sometimes when I talk to her on the phone she says… Are your doors locked! I’ve been married since I was 18, and 60 yrs. old now, she still says it!

[@AvaMarieDianaFriedrich-y5b]

😂that’s me in New York too!

[@lorirose76]

Same. But I grew up in London. Walk fast and look as if you know where you’re going. Also look slightly pissed off but not too much. Don’t go round smiling. Change train carriages if you get a bad vibe about someone.

[@lorrainedempsey3320]

I will never forget an experience i had years ago. I was in a mall parking lot, daytime, walking to my car. Got in my car, and started the engine. I looked to my left, and saw a man walking guickly toward my car. He was a matter of four feet away from my car. I could hear him say, i'm not going to hurt you. My immediate reaction was, you're dam right, you're not going to hurt me. My foot was on that gas peddle, all the way to the floor. My tires screeched, and i flew passed him like a bat out of you know where. That was 25 yrs ago, and when i think of it now, i am glad i still have a heightened sense of fight or flight.

[@tamararutland-mills9530]

Wow! That’s terrible. Good on you! You go, gal!

[@flamethedarktruesalt9347]

That's what I'm talking about! Well done!

[@MMMC-z8y]

When they say they’re not going to do ‘specific thing’ that’s exactly what they’re going to do.

[@williamstaggs9285]

Excellent choice! You might not be here today if you hadn't reacted like you did.

[@trueloveingod2691]

Statement: “I’m not gonna hurt you.” Translation: “I’m gonna kill you.”

[@brianenoch2344]

When I'm out with my wife, be it a store, mall, restaurant, I'm always looking around. She says I look creepy but I'm checking out people, the exits, areas that offer protection, I don't care if it looks creepy cause you never know, something bad can happen anywhere. As a retired police officer i know all too well. Know your surroundings.

[@ct6852]

Especially with public shootings.

[@carobutterfli2537]

Yes!

[@thomassargent-j6e]

@@brianenoch2344 I was walking through a mall one day and saw Stephen King. Sometimes you do see scary lowlifes.

[@lastonesmiling]

Good for you. Your wife is lucky despite what she says. Situational awareness. Head on a swivel. As my trainer says, "Prepared Not Paranoid".

[@bibistvlife8732]

Yep yep that’s how I am 👍🏼

[@LanaRainbow69]

I'm 76 yr. old female - I always park in the same place at my stores so that I don't have to "remember" where I parked. I keep my keys on me, never in my purse, incase my purse is snatched; I can still get home in my car. I have my keys ready before I leave the store. I never wear any jewelry. I only take the credit cards I'll be using that day. I wear my purse cross-body in the store and never put it in the basket. The moment I shut my car door I lock it. Someone here mentioned the book "The Gift of Fear" - everyone should read it.

[@margretsims1322]

It's a fabulous book......

[@mariamonahan-jq1fm]

I AM AMAZED I DO ALL THESE THINGS YOU DO! 😊❤❤

[@loli3939]

Use the panic button. And mark your parking spot.

[@mettamorph4523]

Those handbags in the shopping cart infuriate me. It's STUPID to do that AND you are instigating a crime scene that I might become a part of because I'm here in the store with your stupid a$$.

[@sandraflowers2547]

I do the same things that you listed, my key is between my fingers pointing out to use as a weapon also.

[@kcm4511]

Being kind. This is one I learned from personal experience. If you’re too nice, people WILL take advantage of you. This can happen financially, emotionally. Hell, someone might just try to start a physical altercation with you because you’re nice and they assume you won’t hit back. This is why it’s nice to be the quiet, unassuming one in the room.

[@rasmustorkel9568]

You can be kind and polite without being submissive.

[@ramonitar3628]

To some people nice equals dumb, better safe than sorry!​@@rasmustorkel9568

[@happysingle6240]

Absolutely RIGHT

[@kcm4511]

@@rasmustorkel9568 unfortunately my kindness knew no boundaries, meaning it went into me ending up being hurt a lot. Thankfully, I’m not like that anymore. It took learning the hard way a bunch of times for me to finally start telling people no.

[@rasmustorkel9568]

@@kcm4511 Thanks for sharing. It is good that you learned to set boundaries. That is very important. However, I wish for you that you can find the right balance and remain a kind person.

[@neasa4222]

Silence is golden, learned the hard way, shared way too much with others.

[@deltahomicide9300]

Years ago I went to Bali by myself. Was going thru tough times so I needed time for myself. As soon as I arrived at my hotel this street kid said hi to me. I smiled and engaged him in conversation. I wanted to be the cool foreign traveler. Little did I know this innocuous act would have him posting up at my hotel every morning, just hounding me to buy this, go on that tour and do I want some ...stuff. He'd literally follow me even as I said bye or I'm not interested. It kinda ruined my trip. I hear ya man. Situational awareness.

[@Seekeroftruth2025]

Be situationally aware at all times. My mom taught me that, her father taught her that. He was an honorable Navy veteran and a cherished soul in our family. I love you, Grandpop Tony! ❤ Thank you, tough and kind men, for leading the way!

[@margaretchaney5627]

When I was a teen, I missed my train from Milwaukee to Chicago to visit my older sister. I called her, said I was at the bus station. Slhe told me to stand straight and tall, to walk with confidence, speak to no one and get on that bus. The station is filled with scary people. I learned a lot that day & no one bothered me.

[@kurtkyre]

This^ 1981. When I was fourteen, I went cross country on the bus from Utah to Georgia to live with my father. Waiting for my connecting bus in St Louis, I was sitting on a bench, reading a book when I heard someone going, "Pssst... Pssst...". I looked up to see some dude standing by the men's restroom, looking at me. He gestured for me to come over. Right then, I heard someone nearby clear their throat. I looked over to see a soldier in uniform. He was looking straight at me and ever so slightly shaking his head. No. I looked back towards the restroom and the dude was gone. I'd like to think that I wouldn't have gone, but I also know that I was very naive. That soldier saved me.

[@tamararutland-mills9530]

@@kurtkyreThank God!

[@danr5462]

​@@kurtkyre And that soldier was none other than the young Chris Hansen, recently enlisted and heading back home for the holidays

[@TonyaSearcherForTruth]

@@kurtkyre I'd like to think that "if" I wouldn't have gone

[@kurtkyre]

@@TonyaSearcherForTruth No. I wrote exactly what I meant to write. It's easy for one to say they would not have done something stupid, when looking back, but I know that I was far too trusting.

[@readyornot316]

Growing up in Detroit, us five kids were taught to put a certain expression on our faces when on the street. It’s a look of kinda being on the verge of pissed off, unapproachable, and maybe just a bit unhinged without saying a single word. And eye contact, there’s a fine line between letting someone know you know they see you and not staring at them. This has served me well for my entire life.

[@12GAFL]

Ferndale here, same. Now in Dallas, still same.

[@ShaeferGriffin-it9nx]

Grew up in Houston in the late 70s/early 80s. Same.

[@ShaeferGriffin-it9nx]

It's called "game face".

[@MoonPhaze5]

That was learned behaviour for me in Chicago burbs.

[@wms72]

Pittsburgher here, now in Los Angeles. Same

[@johnwilde164]

#4 Being very drunk, which makes it harder to defend yourself.

[@kencoffman7145]

As a 54 year old bouncer, I whole heartily agree

[@TheWolfe83]

I've seen so many people wasted get knocked out bad because they couldn't see what they were doing.

[@kencoffman7145]

@@TheWolfe83 you ain't lying! 21 to 30 year old men are the worst. Social skills are at an all time low

[@oldnatty61]

Also, even a little drunk can take one from not talking too to talking too much.

[@Amir_Nassir]

Or using THC. I know people are walking around nowadays wasted on THC edibles, have no idea what's going on around them.

[@Mystic_Paths]

The insights on people-pleasing behavior are so relatable; always trying to make others happy can sometimes lead to compromising our own boundaries

[@JSaveK]

Came here to say this. You are under no obligation to be polite or accommodating to strangers. My sister is overly friendly and I find myself being much more vigilant when she actively engages with someone who should've been quickly dismissed or even ignored. Letting people know you are not that easygoing can often shut things down before they even start.

[@shemilaalexander8765]

And safety

[@thomassargent-j6e]

That thinking is killing Americans

[@thomassargent-j6e]

The being so nice to people.

[@richierich7384]

​@@JSaveK this ❤

[@elgringoec]

"being on a mission" - I figured that one out when I was a kid. It works.

[@soma4u289]

Yep i totally agree,grab that shovel but dont just lean on it,look useful at all times.

[@tuckerkatze8309]

I learned it as "walking with purpose."

[@USSResolute]

Where have I heard these things before? I know: 1. Lowered eyes fail to notice spies 2. Loose lips sink ships 3. Look alive

[@elgringoec]

😂 Old wisdom is constantly resurfacing with new phraseology.

[@sunnyday7843]

Walls have ears

[@mtlicq]

Look like you know where you're going, OR alternatively, make yourself unpredictable.

[@tuckerkatze8309]

These are my go-to's!

[@maryleung1425]

Loose lips sink ships.... comes from the UK ...in WW2...saying used alot during that time

[@regaininglife9084]

My list: 1) Situational awareness (don't be distracted) 2) Never give out personal information (oversharing) 3) Don't show off money or jewelry (never let anyone see you pull out or put away a wad of cash) 4) If at all possible, be with a group of others (you're most vulnerable alone)

[@DistrictGlamour1]

Yes indeed, two or more people together ❤️ always beats one.

[@Vesnicie]

I dunno about the last one. It's other people who've always had a talent for getting me in trouble.

[@CatherineBirch-m5r]

@regaininglife9084 And if your'e elderly, it might help.to dye your hair. Grey hair is a signal to street criminals that says elderly, vulnerable.

[@perfectlysureunknown]

I have an aversion to human beings. I grew up in orphanages around many other kids all the time. I love being alone with my dog. I love being in nature. These videos are awesome 👌

[@ukrnatal]

Are you American?

[@brocktoon8]

I share your aversion : ) I prefer the company of my dogs too.

[@xeray6032]

I went from being extremely healthy and confident to having a serious health problem for a long time. It astounded me how many people were rude to me, said nasty things to me ... People did not come up and offer to help, they offered their opinions and I could do without that. You really do become a target, for the weak, the rude and people who are much worse. I almost never go out after dark ANYWHERE now. It is just common sense to not put yourself in harm's way. Thanks for the talks. They are good reminders.

[@johenderson3742]

When I was 35 I broke my ankle and had a cast up to my knee and crutches. I was killing time before having the cast removed and genuinely was looking for a new fridge. The shop had 3 staff and I was the only customer. They all ignored me. After looking around for a good 10 minutes I decided to approach the counter and let them know that I was in the market for 2 new fridges. Their interest peaked, then I said that due to the appalling customer service I would be buying else where. 😂😂😂 I couldn't resist.

[@Bennie-l9f]

@@johenderson3742 years ago, my wife, our three children, and I went looking to buy a new van one of the new Dodge vans. It was raining and we pulled into the dealership and got out of our car and walked around the lot in the rain, looking at vans and looking in windows and I saw two salesman staring out the door at us. Remember, it’s raining and they didn’t wanna get wet, but there we were buying Customer waiting on ourselves in the rain and they were too sorry to greet us or to say come in. How can I help you?? So we finally left went to another dealership and bought a brand new 86 Chevy Astro. Their loss for being sorry and trifling and too sissy to get wet. Our gain in buying a competitors vehicle that sat eight passengers so we had room for everybody plus some to spare.

[@ivanbohun8377]

xeray6032 is it permanent....? maybe regaining even slighty your form can help

[@mycb1993]

I’ve been thinking about this… I believe you, I’m speaking mostly to women,carrying that big ole pocket book makes you a huge target! I personally took every important thing out of my bag. Then I found a small ish change purse and put my ID, one credit card and less than $6 in it. I left inportant things in my wallet at HOME, or in the trunk BEFORE I left home. Now I carry a small bag with a few little things like tissue lipstick compact. That’s it. Put your keys out of sight in your pocket, your phone too.Adopt your confident stance and away you go. If your little purse gets stolen a credit card is easily inactivated, your ID easily replaced and hardly lost any $$$! And you saved yourself injuries from someone pulling your BIG purse off and you falling or trying to get it back and get your face planted in the sidewalk and your hip broken. Hopefully you can protect your important stuff this way and not get hurt ! ( almost every coworker or friend I told about my plan said” But I gotta have my stuff my medicine my bank stuff “ 😮oh well…

[@Vesnicie]

I'm sorry that's happened to you and I can corroborate that being visibly unwell makes you a cruelty magnet. It's an effed up world.

[@rayray-tp4ib]

I wish I had somone talking to me like this when I was growing up. ❤

[@andrewcrowder4958]

I know a female, Chinese-American, tiny (5' 3") Seattle police officer. No one would ever try to walk up on her, and in fact she is on a special protective detail. There is a bubble of force and charisma around her. To the channel host: You strike a wonderful balance between forcefulness and friendliness. You explain clearly and briefly, and you give off a vibe of concern for your audience. Well done, sir, and thank you.

[@LeonardNemoy]

A bubble of force and charisma? That sounds so bada$$, i'd like to have that for myself

[@hededcdn]

Hey, that's great. Let's not make the assumption she can just fight off a 6'3" 280lbs psycho though. This ain't marvel.

[@rustysmackleford2333]

What do you mean shes on a "special protective detail" like protecting who/what and in what capacity

[@xirmanatee3763]

Super predator vibe. Criminals can sense if you will drop them.

[@Sci-lives]

As a 5” female engineer, I learned not to make my car look “female” as I could be leaving sites in the dark. A target vest and hard hat in the back seat helps.

[@bromptinowner763]

Yes a man's cap on the rear shelf helps too

[@Kharkovkid]

I knew a predator type guy who could tell what a female, young and single car would look like. He would cruise the bars, but never go in, because he could tell who was there, by looking in their cars...

[@kopluss]

paint your car pink and put a purple heart on the dashboard and wait with a stick at least. 😇

[@johenderson3742]

Awesome advice. I'm a female but my car has building materials and nothing "girly". I often grab my mail on the way out and always hide it as it has my name and address on it. 👍

[@johenderson3742]

​@@KharkovkidEvil!

[@terry_willis]

#4 Don't wear bling in public. (Why do you even need bling?)

[@ntal5859]

But i like wearing the bling i take from people..,, you means to tell me some other mofo going to take my nearly acquired gold savings. damn it man i knew i should have stayed in school and become a fancy lawyer, they always stealing a brothers bling for bonds and shit,.... and yes I am trolling hard.

[@JackWelsh-gw7gl]

Some have an " Bling Grille " so don't Smile, give them that " Tyson " Pendulum of Death Stare 😡🤬

[@paulkersey2179]

I wear it to attract the ladies, its like honey to the bees.

[@terry_willis]

@@paulkersey2179 Careful my friend . . . those bees can sting. :)

[@paulkersey2179]

@@terry_willis Oh hell yeah

[@jaysilver9193]

I grew up with an angry alcoholic father. I could sense from the sound of him walking up the front stairs what kind of a night it would be. I don't walk around in paranoid mode, but my early warning system (feeling in my gut) is still with me, and I always pay attention to it. When I was a young woman, I walked everywhere, sometimes late at night and even into the early morning hours. I remember a few times when I thought I might be at risk. My mindset was "Walk down the street like you own it."

[@FlyingYellowPony]

So many people have lost the ability to listen to that sixth sense. Interview after interview of victims saying "Something felt off, but I ignored it and went ahead anyway."

[@tuckerkatze8309]

Yeah, I learned as 'Walking with purpose."

[@alsmith9853]

​@@FlyingYellowPonyAgreed. Get out if you feel uncomfortable, never be afraid of looking foolish

[@maximusvangoe1185]

The one and probably only good thing about being adult children of alcoholics are our ability to read a room or sense unease in an atmosphere or situation involving other humans. The school of hard knocks has at least given us a built in danger detector others are not naturally privy to.

[@Greeneyes972]

As a child of an narcissistic alcoholic, I completely get it. We are always alert to any possible bull shit

[@BradYaeger]

I live in a big city thats currently full of addicts, mentally ill and criminals sadly . A huge amount of them are constantly on the hunt for their next mark. They are incredibly driven and will look for any instance that they can get the drop on somebody in some fashion . After months or years of living this life they are experts . I see a lot regular folks just trying to block all of it out by going into an emotional cocoon . They don't want to have to engage . Well all that reads as fear to a predator and will instead draw them to you. Learn to give a cold , dead stare that simply says "I can see you , I'm not afraid." If you smile and nod , you'll draw them. If you look confrontational , it may work, but it may also cause friction if say they are in a gang. You just want to send the message you are clocking them and aware . 2nd , use reflective surfaces as mirrors . They are all around you in a city .

[@johnschoonmaker-tm3ll]

You sound like an experienced new york sub way rider.

[@TheBorderRyker]

Always watch your shadow.

[@toolsntruck941]

Time to mofe

[@alfredpaquin3563]

That leaves us a wide range of cities to choose from. Mostly liberal cities.

[@nbrown8464]

My husband is always telling me to “Keep your head on a swivel when you go out!” Great advice for us older females.

[@LightHouse_222]

Shoes. I was taught by a London man to wear lace up shoes. We never know when we have to run ! I used to wear slip ons or sandels. Dropped the heels years ago but thought I was good to go. Ever seen a scene where people had to flee ( a mass shooting for instance)... so many shoes everywhere. I was in London in 2017 when the terrorists killed people and they had to run (on a busy street). All those shoes left behind. Its a rule now when I leave home. Tie the laces tight and double knot them.

[@FloridaGirl-]

I agree!! This is flip flop country in FL. When I go out, it’s laced tennis shoes!

[@StevenHughes-hr5hp]

Constantly having to stop to retie your shoes makes you look so much more alert.

[@paulmcmanus9603]

I'm old (78) and old fashioned.... I carry a 40 cal Glock, not opened carry, but in a holster that is inside my pants on the right front. The handle sticks out so I can grab in an instant (I have practiced at gun range a lot). Only two or three times have I had to put my hand on my handgun and once was walking out to my car in a parking lot when I noticed I was being watched. I stopped, turned directly faced to the potential bad guy, pulled my gun partially from the holster so that the dude and his friend a few feet away could see I was armed to the teeth.....they turned and departed instantly. I didn't have to say a single word...knowing I was armed plus the 'bring it on pricks" look was enough to diffuse any violent encounter.

[@borghorsa1902]

Haha, the same in South Africa. I can guess WH0 the bad guys were 🤓

[@jeffhiggins808]

God bless you sir. Be careful not to cross the line into “brandishing”. In today’s more regulated and litigious society it’s too easy to get into trouble. Unfortunately defending yourself is often perceived as you being the aggressor or a dangerous person. Ridiculous right? I live in Hawaii where we have no stand your ground or castle doctrine rights. Thanks to the Bruen decision now we can get concealed carry permits. Be safe and thank you for your helpful anecdote.

[@TheresaCarter-z3l]

Also be aware of your surroundings.

[@leslovesliberty1776]

Concealed Carry, 100%!! Always be prepared. 💯💪😘

[@ramonitar3628]

😂😂👍👍

[@gazza2933]

Yes, absolutely! I think it is about 'body language' Stand straight, shoulders back, walk as though you own the place I'm a 71 year old male, bit I am not an old man who stoops about. Maybe I'm lucky. Thank you for this. From across the water. 👍 🇺🇸 🇬🇧

[@daringgreatly8473]

The book the gift of fear mentions not to smile or say hi to random people. Growing up in the south you learn to be friendly and kind and polite to strangers. But you never know if you are the only connection that person has had and can cause them to lock in on you. I don’t smile or say hi to anyone anymore. I don’t owe them anything.

[@411Outdoors]

Very, very well said! I have witnessed this. I guess it depends on the time and place, but I could see this definitely being a problem on random city streets.

[@mettamorph4523]

Wow. That is a huge change for me. 😮

[@ct6852]

That's a tough one. Because I think basic socialization is what a lot of people really need, and actually allows people to be the best version of themselves. In a lot of ways, I think excess coldness and paranoia is actually causing a lot more problems then it's solving. But I understand the impulse to protect.

[@SomewhereInIndiana1816]

I love that book!

[@becbell4913]

I'm thankful to live in a town where people are mostly friendly and not much trouble occurs ( except late at night, I don't go out then) friendly greetings are important

[@tamararutland-mills9530]

THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR THIS VIDEO! As it happened, when I was in my early teens, I was walking down 15A in Orlando because my mother did not drive (she was a widow, so no dad to drive me either). 15A was a long lonely stretch of road with palmetto scrubs on either side of the road for the most part. Now, it is all built up into a 4 lane, but back in the 1970’s it was just a 2 lane road which intersected Hyw 50. So, when I was already a good stretch away from the intersection, a new Toyota pulled along side of me and a very lawyerly looking man began to chide me for walking alone. His manner was very fatherly and gentle as he said something like: “It’s not safe for you to be out walking by yourself. Come on. You better get in and I will see that you get to your friend’s house.” I was suspicious, but not frightened at that point. He kept on and on in his charismatic way. He was in a dress suit, with the coat casually hung over his seat. His briefcase was in the back seat. I asked him if he was a lawyer. Against my intuition, I finally decided that he meant no harm as he chatted me up. So, I decided to accept that ride. As I opened the back door, he said: “NO! I want you to sit up front.” He said that a little more forceful than need be, I thought. I saw a roll of duct tape halfway underneath the back seat. My guard began to go up, but stupidly I began to open the front door & get in. It was then that I saw that the door handle was all covered over in duct tape on the inside. Odd for a brand new car. There would have been no way out. Then, in an instant: he saw the horror on my face and reached over from the driver’s seat and grabbed my left forearm. His face turned in one second from the concerned fatherly look to pure rage! It was the face of a real monster! It was all contorted. He was yanking me in. I still had my right foot (my best foot forward that day) on the ground which gave me the leverage I needed to hold on to something and yank away & scream with everything that was in me. I was jerking and wiggling my wrist & forearm all about so that he lost control of it as I jerked it away and ran back to the intersection ~ screaming my head off. God spared me that day & I have thanked Him ever since. I never told my mother, but as it happened: pictures of Ted Bundy began to appear in all of the papers. The Orange County Police Dept started issuing warnings about him on the radio stations. He was finally caught afterward and sentenced for the murder of Kimberly Leach, who lived in the Orlando/Kissimmee area. After I saw the clean cut/clean shaven pictures of him in a suit and tie, I saw that he looked EXACTLY like this stranger who tried to abduct me If it was not Ted Bundy: it was his twin. IDK for sure WHO he was, but I have carried this memory with me all of my life. I should have trusted my intuition. I do now, but in those early teenage years, life had more of a golden halo over it. We do not like to think that monsters walk among us, but they do. One could pull up next to you in a car someday ~ looking & acting so respectful ~ that your guard would not be up. Even his car was immaculate. So, for me, it was a very hard lesson to be wary of strangers and not to focus on their mannerisms or appearance, but to question what it is that they want & to weigh it against common sense. I thank God every time I think of it for the safety that surrounded me and that I lived to tell this very true story. Be careful out there everybody!

[@dowth3]

Holy crap! My heart raced just reading your comment. YES you are blessed to still be walking on planet Earth!

[@Janette-l3w]

Oh honey . I lived in Orlando, 32 years. I am fighting tears , thinking what almost happened to this precious teen . Thinking of the ones who didn't get away fast enough. Their moms and dads had to live with that truth. Unbearable. Sometimes it's just a few seconds . I had a close encounter myself when I was 20, & my car broke down on the highway in NY. Predators are everywhere. God bless ~~~

[@tamararutland-mills9530]

@@dowth3 Amen! It has always stayed with me, rolling around in the back of my mind. I was SO CAREFUL to know where my teenagers were at all times later on. The thing that shocked me the most was (other than him grabbing my arm) was the way his face changed in a split second of time.

[@tamararutland-mills9530]

@@Janette-l3w Yikes! I know. I lived in NY too, growing up. Be careful out there. Even senior citizens aren’t safe these days.

[@ked7426]

@tamararutland-mills9530 Wow, I heard Debbie Harry akc Blondie had a close encounter with Ted Bundy too. I had a similar encounter but not a famous serial killer. It was daytime at a bus stop, I'd just been to the doctor's and found out I was pregnant. I was with my toddler when a smart looking car drove up. The guy was telling me he was an MP, and he'd give me a lift. I accepted and went to the back seat with my son. He motioned me to sit with him in the front. That's when alarm bells went off, I got out quick. He was still trying to convince me what an upstanding citizen he was. I stood firm at refusing, so he drove off. Then a four-wheel drive ✋️ and the man asked if I'd like a lift, I said no thank you in no uncertain terms. Mine wasn't a serial killer as far as I know, but at least it taught me a lesson. I know that around that time there was a couple operating around Perth Western Australia, and they were David and Catherine Birnie.

[@Lou-n7o-m4t]

As l dealt with an illness, I found people targeting me, if not just to bully. It’s really disturbing to me the lack of human compassion.

[@hangryturtle9006]

Same! I was at my lowest and it was like sharks came from the corners of the earth smelling blood. I never been bullied by so many family members, coworkers, “friends” in my life! It was horrifying and now that I’m strong again I have a whole new understanding of everyone around me. The human race genuinely is depraved and I’m now 100% convinced that not 1 person will escape eternity in Hell apart from repenting of their evil hearts and accepting the payment of Jesus Christ on the cross.

[@Lou-n7o-m4t]

@@hangryturtle9006 That’s a great analogy of the sharks.,That’s exactly how it seems. I’ve not understood how many horrible people exist. And now. I trust no one, literally. Trust is earned and not quickly. But, it saddens me. What’s happened to humanity, that there are so many depraved people? One thing, I am really grateful that I have a heart. And empathy. And know how to use them. I’m grateful that I’ve helped others, friends and family along the way. Now, seeing how much they need it and how few people do.

[@thedivinefeminine1821]

@@hangryturtle9006I had your same experience. Dire illness, all of a sudden friends family everyone but the dog was taking liberties. It's disgusting. No sick person needs that.

[@linaa3469]

❤❤❤

[@yasminbarry7941]

@hangry turtle: I used to think I was the only one that was torn apart at work while battling a serious illness. But I keep finding more and more people who have faced that horrible situation.

[@MikeDennis-ft5ry]

As a retired L.E.O. be aware of your surroundings. Remember to use 3 senses, sight ( looking around), hearing (listen for someone or something coming on you especially from behind) and smell (smell for alcohol, drugs, cigarettes etc...). Learn self defense. Buy Pepper Spray, walking stick or a cane or purchase a firearm and get qualified using it. Stay safe folks....................

[@mikel1483]

this past july, i drove from Tennessee to Maine. for a couple weeks, to visit my sister. i was alone. as i was leaveing, my daughter asked why i was wearing those heavy cowboy boots and jeans in this heat. i said , cause in the middle of the night, while pumping gas in the middle of nowhere, and somebody wants to mess with me, i don't want to be in shorts and flipflops, trying to defend myself. also had on a sleeveless button down shirt, and a grungy straw cowboy hat. to make myself as intimidating as possible. look like someone you don't want to mess with. and in fact i am someone you don't want to mess with.

[@christopherkelley1664]

Yeah I don't get how people go around in pajamas. I'm in jeans and shoes until I get into bed.

[@ghanajunction]

Am a small female have travelled to many countries by myself I was told when i was young always walk tall and full of confidence and be aware of who is around you. Did this and had no problems thankfully.

[@ebsmokymtn9445]

Head on a Swivel in Parking Lots, Convenience stores & basically any public space.

[@alvankarpas6245]

I remind my wife every time she leaves home without me... 1) Head on a swivel 2) Trust your gut 3) Use your feet (to get away) and 4) Scream, scream, scream. Great vid btw!

[@adriannedanen3546]

Im getting a bit older now with spinal issues which make it hard to walk. When followed by a drugged up wood- duck towards my car in a shopping centre carpark , I headed back inside the mall calling out to someone loudly. Your videos are really life saving! The wood-duck stood in front of a pole just far enough for me to duck down and enter my car from behind, lock my doors and drive off. The wood- duck was very disappointed! Thanks so much for your informative videos! 😅

[@jayumble8390]

Excellent video! Reminds me of an ancient Chinese saying form the I-Ching...'anticipate evil and you will most likely avoid evil'. Evil can mean anything negative. One needs to anticipate and stay aware. Thanks for this!

[@Texasmann1]

About ten years ago at age 59, I was fishing alone at a local canal out in the local farm land. Three much younger guys stopped their truck on the dirt road nearby and got out looking at me. They started walking closer to me asking if I caught any fish and if the fishing was good here. We have 100 miles of canals in my area and they decide to stop where I am alone. I told them the fishing here is terrible and my hook was caught on a partial submerged car tire in the water. They walked a bit closer and kept asking questions. With my right hand, I reached behind my back at waist level and continued to stay calm and courteous (non-confrontational) while suggesting another location I once knew to be good for fishing. I carried no gun, but it looked like I did. They thanked me and got back in their truck and drove away.

[@sondrabradley8040]

I went to Walmart yesterday and I did the self-checkout and while I was sticking my credit card in the debit machine, someone came up behind me and took three bags out of my shopping cart. I was not being attentive to what was going on around me,my fault. A hard lesson to learn when your on a pension.

[@Kharkovkid]

"Recognition is absolution". Next time you won't be so careless.

[@johenderson3742]

That is horrible. Sorry. It's not your fault. We have to concentrate when paying by card...pushing the correct buttons, hiding our PIN, and holding our wallets tightly while putting the card away. It's difficult to know how to avoid this situation.😢

[@Mick_Ts_Chick]

My grandmother got her wallet stolen from her purse (1970s) in the shopping cart. I have never put mine there again!

[@CatherineBirch-m5r]

@sondrabradley8040 some years ago I.was at an ATM when a man appeared at my shoulder asking for directions, I grabbed my money and got away quick. I also immediately changed my PIN number in case he read it.

[@ScooterOnHisWay2024]

#4 - keep your hands free, especially your strong hand.

[@mlongpre100]

the hand you fap with

[@patriciacunningham5748]

I have been stocked at a Wal-Mart one day. I had been very sick so I was using a powerchair. This big guy around 25 years old was with me everywhere I went. So, I started going different direction's to see if he was following me..I realized he was. Lucky for me I was with a few family members and found them in the store.when this man saw I was with family he quickly went away. I told the store manager. Now when I'm shopping I find someone who is shopping like me and befriend them.. Soon it can look !like you are not alone. I also look around and hunt for things that could be used as a weapon. I did not like feeling of being a easy mark.

[@lisaabbwtt6118]

As an older woman with a spinal injury and walking with a stick, I'm thought of as an easy target....until they see me get angry! Having been a teacher before and dealing with all types, a loud stern voice can work wonders! Plus being armed with a stick also helps!😂

[@samaireoctober5584]

One thing you rarely hear about, is how the elderly are targeted more often. I hope you stay safe.

[@orangecrush5512]

When I get out of my vehicle at the gas station, or store, or wherever, and see "shady" dudes hanging around, I always make eye contact and give them head nod and a "Hey, Brother"....or "How you doin'?" . For one, it makes them feel acknowledged, and shows that you're aware of them, and not afraid to engage with them.

[@annietriesthings]

Ha! As a woman I specifically don’t make eye contact with those kind of people. But I do watch them in reflections and in my peripheral vision. And never have my back to them. And all doors to the vehicle locked, even when standing right next to it.

[@EternallyCurious471]

@@annietriesthingsMe, too. I’ve taken to driving with the doors locked, too. If I lower the windows when driving, I make sure that the windows are up high enough, that no one can reach in and grab my purse. It sucks, but we’ve got to be safe, right?

[@UntameableRunaway]

🎆 ~ 👍 👍 Agree 100% with annieontheroad & EternallyCurious. _Keep staying safe, girls, it's realllyyyyy hard now_ with guys of certain foreign cultures & religions living amongst us now whom believe we are for free-taking - _happened here in a flash_ to a convenience store middle-aged clerk & right in front of her wimpy male co-worker. The criminal *dragged her* from behind the counter & *locked themselves in the restroom* ... then refused to let the cops in ... KZbin will delete my comm, if I say more ... E-VON though it's *true local news.* _Stay safe!!!_ ~ 💖

[@melissalittrel9765]

That's really good thanks 😊

[@Brian17-l4i]

I think engaging with shady dudes can also be an invitation for victimization. Especially, if you appear nervous, so that's not always good advice!😮

[@rlewis8821]

Agree on all three... and here's one more: The taught stupidity of avoiding stereotypes which, by the way, is the most successful tool used by many law enforcement/security agencies in most countries. This leads some to place themselves in extremely vulnerable situations. “If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, then it probably is a duck.”

[@gogogo26993]

What is avoiding stereotypes?

[@blinkyy1088]

@@gogogo26993 It means around blacks never relax

[@TheBigdog868]

Agreed. Stereotypes exist for a reason. There are truths to them.

[@AA-BB]

@@gogogo26993cmon

[@brocktoon8]

@@gogogo26993 Like if you see someone who just looks like a nasty person, don't go out of your way to find out just cuz you don't want to be mean - or something like that.

[@christopherdekonstrukt444]

One thing I have to work on is not expressing my anger and frustration over small things that aren't going my way. Like dropping something, jamming my arm or elbow into something, yes, it sucks but not to my advantage to think out loud and let the world know about it. 30 years ago in martial arts my teacher said by telegraphing what causes you pain lets the enemy know where to strike.

[@kimlersue]

I was raised in a big mean city. My parents and grandparents from infancy on taught me to be AWARE and HEADS UP as they were in city situations. As a woman this has helped me many many times. Know what's happening around you and be prepared..and w/o challenging others..look like you know what's up!

[@user-dt8no6dd5c]

Time of day and type of neighborhood is also important.

[@outlawjoseywales6159]

My dad was a WW2 combat vet. He also boxed all his life as I have. I used to watch him as a kid and he always carried himself with confidence. Not cocky BUT he always went in any situation with a presence that he had as much a right to be there as anyone! I learned that from him and now my son's have learned it from myself. You want to be a person that makes the people with you feel safe and protected. Carry yourself with confidence, purpose and humility!

[@dmerls8571]

Quickly showing fear or hate to a potential bully or mugger seems to ensure that they will elevate their hostility. Instead, stay cool and act like they are no different from you.

[@lioneldemun6033]

You are so right. But it can be risky : I often smile at people who don't look the kind type... one of these days some of these blokes may think I m making fun of them...

[@Deej496]

As an independent senior at 70 yrs.old and an avid equestrian, who rides alone most of the time, I LOVE this channel and all the great advice you give..... I can be too friendly and chatty. The curse of growing up in the 50s and 60s when things werent as dangerous, I DO...have to watch myself. I do walk with purpose and attitude as all CowGirls do, but at my age, I have to remind myself to be careful and stay.. FROSTY! I'm not as agile as I once was... Thank you for these lessons. So important and so needed!

[@LL-oc1xw]

Great info. Thinking about 4 men I've noticed. All senior aged. None traditionally fit looking. But each looks strong physically and mentally, only one of them is loud and talkative, each confident, very watchful, very aware, like they're quietly noticing the people coming and going and are evaluating their motives, like they don't suffer fools gladly, and like they'd go down taking down the perp if that's what was required. One of the four is actually small, probably in his late 70s, wears his Marines jacket ... and I get this vibe that this man has seen and done it all - and would do it again. I learn a lot observing.

[@robynmeyer7796]

A relaxed attitude of casual awareness paired with a mindset to “take action” and be ruthless if I have to works for me. Constant awareness is borderline hyper vigilance and it opens the gates to anxiety and trouble. It’s important to save your energy for when you really need it. We are not in a constant conflict zone. Real world, real time situational awareness. As a woman on my own I’ve travelled to many countries safely, without fear and enjoyed meeting k’s of people from all walks of life.

[@agustinpacheco8093]

I am 59 years old 45 years of trauma And I met my wife, just celebrated 15 year anniversary. She keeps me grounded but I never ever let my guard down. I trust no one but my fault, I expressed myeself to much. But I have been working on it. Especially know a days. Thank you for the video. Im in the right track.

[@dougsrepair1060]

It’s so true. Someone’s body language speaks volumes, especially to those with a bit of wisdom.

[@guillermorocha6661]

This channel is really good. First time I see it. Solid advise. Thank you.

[@DoloresJNurss]

As a multiracial person with blue eyes in a brown face, I learned at an early age that I was never going to blend in no matter how hard I tried, so I decided to lean into it--but with a way to compensate for being a born target. I wear a cape. There is no way for a predator to get a good grip on me. He can't see where I've got my purse, he can't see whether I've got a gun under there, he sees a lot of fabric that he could easily get tangled in that could hinder his getaway. So he's going to look for easier prey. I've lived in slums where lots of other people got mugged, but not me.

[@johenderson3742]

You are The Caped Cruisader"! ❤

[@user-ov4wr5yu4r]

Ok, but consider brown contacts. Excess fabric also makes it difficult to take action.

[@camlacasse3760]

Interesting - excellent tip.

[@emeraldheart415]

Your cape is your super power! What a genius way to stay safe 💯

[@DoloresJNurss]

@@emeraldheart415 Aw, thanks!

[@gracerc6154]

Be willing to quietly abandon your stuff, your meal, or dont finish filling your gas tank, etc if the situation you are in starts to look dangerous or suspicious. Avoid being overloaded with stuff you are buying. Be efficient in getting your task done, like loading car with your purchases.

[@carelesswhisper8973]

Exactly, don't trip over a dollar to grab a nickel is what my grandad used to say.

[@emeraldheart415]

Great advice, thank you!

[@thirdactwarrior317]

Great list. To #1, I’d add “no earbuds in public.” I see people who aren’t looking at their phone, but they’re having a conversation with someone or listening to music. They aren’t aware. To #2 I’d add bumper stickers. If, for instance, I wanted to steal a gun, I’d find a vehicle with certain bumper stickers. To #3, I’d add “make eye contact and say hello”… appropriately. If I pass someone close, I always make eye contact and at least give them a friendly nod. It says, “I see you, I bear you no ill will and I’m not afraid of you.”

[@CatherineBirch-m5r]

I listen to music in public but I'm very alert and aware of other people getting too close. I walk briskly and move away if anyone gets into my personal spade.

[@mikejohn0088]

" I always make eye contact and at least give them a friendly nod. It says, “I see you, I bear you no ill will and I’m not afraid of you" Well to many it signals: "Hello, I want to go home with you...please nod back in approval."

[@ryanjordan7268]

Excellent rules of the road and public environments.

[@josephwilliamroca]

Sadly, I’d add loud music in the car. Really sadly. Can’t hear your car either, which can be really harmful when mechanical issues arise. And don’t notice the police, a bad thing.

[@AnthonySlavin]

100% True buddy. I always pay super attention to my surroundings no matter what I'm doing or where I am. Most people are driving on Auto pilot and too complacent by making them unaware of everything going on around them. I like to be super observant and alert.

[@thorn.charmer]

I am a small woman. I’ve learned that walking quickly with purpose and direction while keeping my head up is a great way to avoid trouble. I’ve spotted people spot me, then do a once over and could tell they immediately decided otherwise. Making polite eye contact is also a great avoidance tactic.

[@411Outdoors]

Well said!

[@dyates6380]

Number three is very important, and it even applies to larger people. I try to be aware and even make very brief eye contact with people, and especially people who I have a "feeling" about in public. Just to let them know I'm aware of their presence. I'm not talking about staring or anything, but a very brief eye contact and then I continue to scan. I think sometimes people who mean harm to us are looking to see if they're even "visible" to us, and by doing this it's letting them know that you're aware of them. Another great video man, thank you for this.

[@katiemccormick8846]

As a small elderly woman the key for me was carrying myself as not to be noticed, ( gray man), head on a swivel and acting as if I didn’t notice the drug addled insane lunatics. Eye contact or reacting to their weirdness would trigger them.

[@fendermon]

Yes, I purposely make eye contact and polite nods to let the world know I'm not sleep walking through the day, and to acknowledge them. No hard, fast rule for every situation though.

[@enatp6448]

When I was in college I took an assertiveness workshop taught by a woman to help women be less vulnerable - pretty much what is being described here. I think all woman and children need this information.

[@abfab2517]

absolutely useless information for men?

[@donnahaynes2325]

#1 BE aware of your surroundings!! Keep eyes and ears open. I agree with not attracting attention to yourself. All great advice. Thank you.

[@biondna7984]

Thank you for this advice. Absolutely agree with all of it. I live in a politically angry area, so avoid talking politics with anyone I don't know, or let myself be heard about it by same. I vote by mail. I keep my phone in my pocket while running errands, looking all around me, from natural curiosity and for self preservation. I've learned to walk with calm, confident posture, which isn't always easy for someone with ADHD's constant sensory overload. As a woman, I dress comfortably but not too revealingly; I don't want to broadcast for attention I don't want. I'm lucky to be healthy enough to keep bicycling, dancing, and working outdoors. At an active 71, when there's safety, there's still lots of fun.

[@Kharkovkid]

My mother used to treat the voting booth like the Confessional. She never told anyone how she voted, not even her husband. Seemed stupid then, but smart now.

[@lcjesusgirl921]

I just found your videos. Iam a 68 year healty but small widow. I never shop after dark and iam usually alone. I appreciate all your tips. I do make a point to be alert.

[@tyclark8162]

You sound like a wonderful sweet girl 💘, knowing Jesus is a absolute blessing for a happy life imho. God Bless my Lady, Ty

[@Timoeltejano]

Spot on with all of these. I think the third one of looking and carrying oneself with an air of confidence is one of the best things. Don't look like a victim. I liked the idea of not making oneself a target by being loud and obnoxious. Like my dad always used to say, "Don't slouch." I never take my phone out when I'm shopping or in a group of unknowns. I write my shopping lists on paper and carry a good sturdy pen. This is all great advice and excellent reminders. Thank you for your channel. Another good thing is don't drink much in public. People will target a drunk and drunks tend to draw undue attention to themselves.

[@James-tk9to]

Situational awareness is the key, to know in any given situation where the risks are. Many situations rely on two factors, either the perpetrator uses generosity or kindness or conversely the perpetrator uses your kindness and generosity to let your guard down. I was in the South France and walking along the coastal road by myself, and a young man pulled up in a high powered car and asked me if I wanted a lift. My gut instinct said No, yet the guy persisted and that's a red flag. Sometimes the red flag is that the perpetrator is simply on their own, remember safety in numbers. A perpetrator on their own you should focus in on them as a potential threat.

[@jhanncoo]

Owning and handling a working dog like my Belgian Malinois, who I’ve had since she was 2 months old, has completely transformed my perspective. She’s incredibly smart and high-functioning, so I’ve had to stay super alert and aware. This awareness has translated into my work environment too. Recently, a fellow employee tried to harass me, but because I’ve trained myself to stay respectful and aware, I handled the situation appropriately. It’s important to walk with confidence and purpose and always show respect, as you never know what someone else might be going through.

[@apocosy]

Again, as a fellon familiar with these situations, you're exactly right. Confidence being the big one here, regardless of size, shape or anything else, walk and act with Confidence, criminals look for easy victims, don't act like one, whether you are or not. Be cautious of looking around too much, that can convey nosey behavior, often better to look straight ahead or slightly below eye level, no need to make anyone think you're challenging them.

[@411Outdoors]

💯

[@robine3749]

Be aware, without looking for it

[@michaelbrooks4307]

If you must answer or use your phone when on the street, put your back to a wall so that now you can see 180 degrees and see trouble coming and you don't have to worry about your "six".

[@Ivan-cr3vc]

?#1 always watch your 6.

[@debkuhlman2934]

@@Ivan-cr3vc That means your "Six O'Clock" or behind you. It's an old fighter pilot slang for watch your back. Always know what's going on behind you.

[@joanneblowey3001]

Thats what I do and I'm ready to slip phone in my cross carried bag in one second and zip up on the second second!

[@Ivan-cr3vc]

@@debkuhlman2934 I know, I'm a Navy veteran.

[@flamegarden]

@@Ivan-cr3vcThank you for your service. 🙏

[@Gr8Passion4Music]

These are really some good suggestions! A person walking confidently and seemingly aware of his surroundings is really less of a subject for ridicule, also talking only when necessary keeps people away too, agreed! For men I'd say that a small beard and moustache also helps and walking with an open sort of posture, like always ready to face anything and a medium pace of walking with a straight back are also good. Talk less, maintain a distance, on a sarcastic comment try remaining serious and don't smile.

[@keomeow1936]

Ever since I could walk I've been a fast walker so I naturally walk with purpose. Even on a leisurely dog walk I'm hustling 😅 It's saved me from many unwanted interactions.

[@saifaldin_]

Agree with all points; especially the third. I’m a small guy, but I have never once been a victim of bullying (there were attempts, of course) but these episodes normally fizzle out before they got serious. I spent 5 years in boarding schools where bullying was the norm, and I found it a bit weird how guys bigger (and smaller) than me allowed themselves to be bullied. To me, backing off when your rights are being undermined was simply not an option. 30 years later, now I’m working in an office environment, and these points still hold true. Those who are too timid, or too loud will become easy targets (now the threats are verbal/ mental instead of physical when i was growing up). There are plenty of people who get satisfaction from using/ imposing their whims on you; and if you let them, they will.

[@karilyons1045]

Love your channel. Your videos are short enough that my youngest will listen to them and they’re also concise and clear which also help helps!!

[@philalberts7018]

I don't know karate but I know Kaa-razy. I have been in bad situations where people did not F with me just because I looked like I was out of my mind. Saved me more than once. I'm 70 now and I am out of my mind. 😂 I try and help others, especially younger folks. Pass my experience along the best I can....Thanks for all your content! 🙏

[@sweetsavour6174]

In my mid-twenties, I lived in Phoenix and rode the bus downtown to work. One day, I was in an especially good mood when I boarded. Some nondescript guy asked me how I was. I must've smiled first and said, "hi," just trying to be pleasant. I answered him, "Terrific!" Immediately, he came back with, "I bet you are." The whole mood of the interaction changed. I felt sick. That's when I learned to wear what I see others here calling my "game face."

[@FetterMuncher666]

The walking around with confidence is a huge one , once I took up Martial arts my posture and walk improved dramatically and I noticed I drew so many less incidents on myself. Bullies are looking for the easy score , if you look like you might be a handful they'll move onto someone else and I don't even think it's concious all this stuff can be going on subconcious

[@morena012]

I find myself watching your videos because absolutely no one has ever taught me all these. I feel protected by you ❤. You are awesome!

[@KittyChanU2]

Always walk like you know when you are going. And i do make eye contact. Alot of people look away when i do.

[@joelsantos9990]

Yes, I agree with you my friend! Vulnerability attracts predators to the preys! Let us not show the enemy that false sense of vulnerability for them!

[@bryce1916]

I have to say you are bang on with your assessments, I find people in general have become easy targets floating around through life with earphones and cell phone and not paying attention to the world around them.

[@BigSeppiWen]

At night personal space needs to extend out to about 50 feet. Anyone inside of that needs to know you're aware of them. You don't need to speak. In fact, its better if you don't, but make your awareness known in an assertive manner.

[@Pleasemison]

Ima sub. Your topics are on point. Life isn't flashlights an gear

[@TheresaReichley]

I think that’s the minimum circle at any time. Any person in your vision has to know you see them. And especially for women always make it clear that you are aware of the person. It doesn’t matter how far away.

[@josephwilliamroca]

Bad idea to have one distance in mind. Be aware, as far as matters. As closely or loosely as appropriate. For certain, walking home late in the Bronx, I was at least 100 yards out. Bullets travel, predators are looking from afar.

[@yathercantillano3874]

As someone who ritually exercises during witching hours, this is what I do. I'm also very vigilant with cars during this time.

[@Dxn6alc03Belod7m1o]

By assertive do you mean standing tall and walking with longer strides and purpose? Because I watched a video by Chase Hughes on exuding authority. He said the person who moves the slowest, has their head and eyes up, has a straight back and speaks the least will usually be the person perceived as the most authoritative. While that was more about conversations or close encounters, I have found that stamping my feet can get even a gang of youths walking towards me to split up or move to one side. The other thing I will do is punch the air and sing (they think you're nuts and want to avoid you--as if crazy is contagious!

[@mckaypaterson2519]

Some special forces guys have all said to be the "grey man" and or think "invisible", so no one notices you, but at the same time remain alert. I would add, to have clothing on not dissimilar to what local people wear. Some years ago, I noticed in London that a good majority of construction workers, of all ages and backgrounds, would wash and then change into their "good" clothing to "be more presentable" in public. This engenders confidence.

[@LeonardNemoy]

i always observed with myself that the most attractive women were the ones who just wore baggy sweatpants and sweatshirts, presumably so that they draw less attention from men when they are out in public. It also happens to be my own favorite outfit to wear, because of exactly what you say; it's like camouflage for modern humans.

[@stevegoodwin5841]

Agree with all that. I am a 65 yr old Australian in Melbourne and ok fit wise. Been in Law enforcement and security all my adult life. These days, more than ever in this environment we are in I am aware of danger and am prepared with a plan of action for most events possible. Have a plan in your head and never be surprised. Just the opposite expect danger and have a game plan ready to put into action.

[@emeraldheart415]

Greetings from St Helens, Tasmania. I lived in Melbourne until 5 years ago. Even back then, crime and aggression were getting out of hand. I'm sure it's much worse now & you probably deal with it on a daily basis in your line of work. 411 Outdoors offers such sensible, practical advice! Cheers

[@starlingblack814]

Thanks Daniel for the advice. I find that looking people in the eye sometimes makes people angry, but at other times averts possible troubles. I've heard that on the streets the only one who will look you in the eye are criminals and cops.

[@iamyourcow]

Thank you. Autistic 49 year old woman who was diagnosed 8 years ago. I already knew all the things you pointed out, but hearing your words solidified that it is completely fine to cut people out of your life, if it drains you. Sometimes, we Tey to people-please and forget that we have needs, too! I have few friends. They are the same friends I had as a teenager. Most of them, male. As musicians we have mass respect for each other. My weak spot is female friends. They either expect me to be their social worker/ mother figure or want me to change because I am reclusive I, now, look at potential friendships like a psychopath haha as in, does this benefit me? Is this person draining me and encroaching on my personal, private space? Is there always drama around this person? It's cold, but it helps. Even good people drain you when they expect you to be their care giver.

[@davidlawson4281]

I have changed the way that I present myself to the world based upon information that I have learned from Channels like yours.

[@nunyabusiness9013]

It's better to let others do the talking and feed you information than the other way around. Information about a person is a powerful tool.

[@TCshore1]

Great advice the only thing I would add is develop a survivor mindset. Look for threats don’t assume everyone is wonderful just because you want to think that way

[@sinistercharger]

Working out and having big arms and wearing fitted clothing definitely works good .Most people don't trouble someone who looks like they can defend themselves

[@bernicewalker7131]

Glad I stumbled onto this video! I just turned 69 & have been wondering of late, why I’m not so ‘invisible’ to men anymore. It’s my appearance & my husband’s insistence on TMI conversations in the store (like, right now, I’m going to have dental surgery & he wanted an in depth conversation in the store about food, like I was a “toothless old-hag”!). I don’t try to dress flashy but do try to keep a neat appearance, wearing clothes that fit properly & hair neatly combed. Sometimes, I wear hats & fashionable or unusual jackets. About the only thing is, I wear multiple simple, silver hoops in my ears & a nose ring. Right now, I dye my silver hair a denim or dark blue… I guess, I should dump the earrings, nose ring, dress like a bum & dye my hair in a natural hair color. When I was almost attacked in the middle of a Walmart, last year, my hair was not colored - it was more naturally gray than silver. I was in the yarn department, saw 1 burly man, with a cart, blocking one end of the aisle & another burly man, with a cart, blocking the other end. I saw a young teen-aged boy coming up the aisle, with, I swear, a hypodermic needle in his hand. I “played” dumb old woman & backed up to “let him by”, but I backed up into the knitting needles display. You see, I have over 30 years of Martial Arts training from Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Tai Kwon Do & others you may have never heard of, as well as plain old street fighting (Biker) & weapons training. I had planned on grabbing several sets of the largest knitting needles & come out slashing, kicking, fighting, screaming & making so much noise & such a commotion, that the entire store would have thought a tornado had landed. However, my husband, stuck his head around the corner, said something to me & the boy hid his needle, & the 2 men slunk off. My husband asked what was wrong, I couldn’t say why, but kept looking around for those guys. I stayed with my husband for the rest of the visit, & kept my eyes peeled but never saw them again. I refused to back to the Wal-mart for a while. I tried to figure out if I was going to be kidnapped, raped, robbed, murdered, or what. When I finally told my husband what happened, he put forth the theory that they saw a well dressed, for the area, old woman & planned to rob me. All the seniors, in this area, carry envelopes of HUGE amounts of cash (my mother used to carry $15,000 to $20,000 in her purse; my brother does the same but keeps it in his pocket & is very careless when he takes it out.). Me, I don’t carry cash & when I do, I make sure to only pull out enough to cover the bill & use as much change as possible. And the hyperemic may or may not filled with a drug, but be used as a weapon to stun me. I carry my purse cross chested, but if I’m hit just right, they can lift it over my head. Since that time, that Wal-mart had been remodeled & I will go once in a while, but refuse to be in any department by myself. In all the stores in the area, there are creepy men that give me looks, even though I’m with my husband, they won’t even look away! My husband does most of our shopping & he’s even had to help women who were being bothered by these creeps, sometimes I’m afraid something may happen to him because of this. More & more women are carrying for their protection. (Right now, I’m making a small belt purse with a conceal carry pocket for a small pistol.).

[@grumylynn]

Sometimes, I confuse being a good neighbor with being too friendly, and i can see how this could be making myself a target.

[@johnhanaly2943]

LOL. People are definitely more paranoid than ever before.

[@CaraGare]

😮

[@ct6852]

With neighbors you're kind of stuck there together. It's good to be on good terms with them. Just have appropriate boundaries.

[@CaraGare]

@@grumylynn yeap me to

[@MrTudorvidor]

Thank you, very wise as always. Maybe a plus: there are safe places and unsafe places. Depending on where you are or travel, you just can or cannot wear things openly, or leave free your stuff on the table etc. The predator's 3 questions and the target's 3 parameters have a logical order: (1) Are you or what you have worth to fight for? (2) Are you not watchful or easy to distract? (3) Can you possibly defend yourself and your stuff? If you don't fit the first parameter, and you do not wear or show or leave free desirable stuff, they stop here.

[@blanebostock]

I move through social circles easily, cause I'm a musician who can take requests from anyone anywhere and with a single listen on the phone play almost any song for anyone. As you can imagine, I generally get a lot of positive surprised feedback. But listening to you reminds me of how dangerous putting your inner self out to the world at large can be. Thanks for the heads up.

[@jimblevins1927]

Probably the greatest gift was being bullied up to about 3rd grade, always a quiet kid,had a growing spurt,became a very good athelet but never forgot how it felt,I spent the rest of my life educating my kids and grandkids about defending others,I'm 6,1 250 but I'm 65 now so you have to wonder how things got this far.love this video,set with ur back to the wall in public, exercise situational awareness,be kind, humble, vigilant,good stuff Sir.

[@breakmylegs7294]

Wow I'm 6 ft 2 and 175 lbs and athletic you must be out of shape no offense

[@plasticoflamingo2952]

Great observations, and advice, Daniel! I want to add "face". If your expression looks lost, confused, or timid, you are wearing a "VICTIM" sign. Most people don't seem to consider that your face is what is presented to the world, and can tell a predator all they need to know about you. Most of my life has been in violent, crime ridden, cities, so my "street face" comes on, automatically, when I walk outside. I look kind of angry, and just a little crazy (apparently. this is what people have told me, anyway, lol), so I don't get messed with much, except by the real crazies, and I've been dealing with some very crazy people for my whole life (some of my relatives... hoo, buddy! Ha ha.) so I can usually get rid of them quickly. If not, well, loonies CAN be fun, but I don't recommend most people to hang out with them, as they ARE dangerous.

[@borghorsa1902]

Same in South Africa🤣