Being safe

Public places leave us most vulnerable to attack. We spend most of our day outside our homes -- in colleges, offices, at shopping malls or travelling.

How do we stop ourselves from becoming victims?

1. First, you don't have to be a Karate expert or a kickboxer to fight crime.

Common sense and a little planning ahead of time will reduce your risk considerably.

2. Learn some basic form of self-defence.

Take a few hours every week to go to a class that teaches you how to defend yourself if attacked. Those few hours may well make the difference between life and death.

3. Working late or travelling alone at night? Remember to avoid flashy clothes and jewellery.

Many of us have to work late or travel alone after dark. It is risky, yes. But it does not mean you must upset your boss by refusing to work late or say no to participating in that fun cultural event!

Avoid flashy clothes or expensive brands of watches or jewellery. Advertising your status is actually an invitation to criminals to make you their next victim.

4. If you use your own transport, don't stop to pick up suspicious hitchhikers.

5. Those who take public transport should avoid getting into completely empty compartments in the local trains or into empty buses, especially if they are alone.

6. Avoid taking autorickshaws or taxis late at night alone, unless absolutely necessary.

7. Travel on well-lighted, populated streets whenever possible, even if it means taking a slightly longer route.

8. Once you reach home, don't stand and hunt for your keys. This makes it easy for criminals to grab your wallet or purse. Keep your keys in hand before you reach home.

9. Try not to visit an ATM counter late at night.

If you do have to, don't count your money where other people can see you. The temptation of easy money can prove too much for unscrupulous types.