Risks are part of our daily lives, and it’s inevitable that throughout our day-to-day experiences, we’re exposed to risk. For example, every time you drive on the roadways, you’re putting yourself at risk.

There are millions of traffic accidents every year, many of which involve large trucks, injuries, and even deaths.

While we know this to be true, the best we can do is take steps to minimize our risk through our own actions, such as practicing defensive driving skills.

If you live in a big city, you may face more risks in your daily life just by the nature of your environment. Big cities have many benefits, from higher-paying job opportunities to more arts and culture, but they tend to have higher crime rates also.

It’s important to protect your personal safety when you live in a city or urban environment, and the following can help you do that.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

We are a country glued to our phones at nearly all times. The result is that we aren’t aware of what’s going on around us. When you’re not paying attention to your surroundings, you’re more likely to put yourself in a dangerous situation.

Put your phone away when you’re out and about and keep an eye on what’s happening around you and who’s around you at all times.

Many times there are warning signs of impending dangerous situations if we’re looking.

Be Confident

Never make yourself look submissive or as if you don’t have confidence. When you’re walking along the streets of a big city, you should always look purposeful in doing so. You should stand straight and don’t stare at the ground.

Apartment Safety Tips

If you live in an apartment in a big city, be careful about the access control system your building has. Don’t leave security doors open or let people in if you don’t know them.

If you see something in the building like a light bulb that’s out, let your landlord know to fix it right away.

Try only to put your initials on your mailbox.

Consider Using a Safety App or Wearable Panic Button

Many companies are introducing more personal safety products that you can take with you on the go, and that are linked to your smartphone. If you are frequently alone and you live in a big city, you should consider using something like a safety app or wearable panic button.

If you use these tools, then first responders can pinpoint your location in real-time using GPS-enabled technology.

Use a Theft-Safe Bag

You might feel like a tourist if you’re walking around your own city with a theft-safe bag, but it can prevent your personal items from being stolen. If you don’t use a bag specifically aimed at deterring criminals, you could also make sure you put your zippers close to your body when you’re out and about so you’ll feel if someone pulls the tabs, or you can wear your bag on the front of your body.

When you’re on the train or other types of public transportation, you should make sure you always keep your bag in front of you no matter what.

Stay Away From Unfamiliar Areas

Even if you’ve lived in a big city for years, there are likely areas you aren’t familiar with. If you haven’t gotten a chance to know the area, don’t try to explore on your own. Only do that if you have at least one other person with you.

Don’t Feel Obligated to Be Nice to Strangers

Sometimes we can feel guilty if strangers approach us, and we’re not nice to them, but unfortunately, sometimes being rude can keep you safe. If someone asks you a question and you don’t feel comfortable, leave the situation as soon as possible.

Your safety is not worth risking because you don’t want to appear rude to a stranger.

Take a Self-Defense Class

Almost anyone, regardless of where they live, can benefit from taking at least an introductory self-defense class. There are plenty of situations where people are hurt or attacked in smaller cities and towns as well. The skills you learn in a self-defense class can save your life no matter where you live.

Finally, trust your gut. Your intuition exists for a reason, and sometimes it’s better to feel like you’re paranoid than to ignore those feelings you have about the risks of a certain situation.