Don’t Make Yourself a Target

Don’t Make Yourself a Target
 |  Author: Urban Alan

If you ask children what is the most dangerous predator in the world, they might answer something like lions, tigers, or bears (oh my!). Most children and adults forget that human beings are by far the most dangerous predators on Earth. They are not to be underesti...mated, especially if they’re desperate.
Remember, when disaster strikes, the vast majority of people will not be prepared. A typical city only has about 3 days of food in the stores. After that, people with supplies will be targeted. I’m not saying that every single person you encounter is going to try to rob you, but crime will definitely go up, especially if police are in short supply. This post is about how to avoid making yourself a target when out among civilians.
If you have any fantasies of yourself as a Chuck Norris type hero who will kick three or four guys’ asses if he has to, stop dreaming. Even if you’re in great shape, you’ll be hard pressed to survive a fight with one thug, and thugs often travel in packs. And even if you do win the fight, what if you’re seriously wounded? Hospitals might be overcrowded or closed. So do your  best to avoid combat. Here’s what to do:

• Blend in. When out looking for supplies, materials or water, don’t look well-to-do. If you’re wearing your nice new jeans, hundred-dollar sneakers and Oakley sunglasses, people are going to assume you have a lot of stuff wherever you live and you will be followed home. Instead, wear torn jeans, old boots and a dirty T-shirt. Most criminals won’t waste their time with someone who looks as poor as they are.
• Carry a weapon. It’s a good idea to carry a gun with you, but it needs to be concealed. There’s the possibility that a gang of criminals might try to sneak up and jump you so they can take it. A better way is to carry something like a shovel. Few people will care about stealing your shovel, but they’ll also be less likely to rob for fear of getting smacked in the face with it.
• Look dangerous. By this I mean stand tall, hold your head up, walk purposefully and confidently. Criminals prey on the weak, and if you look nervous or scared, they’re more likely single you out.
• Stay out in the open. This might seem like the last thing you’d want to do, but sneaking up and down alleys means you’re more likely to wander into a trap where you can’t call for help.
• Avoid large crowds. Yes, you want to be out in the open where you can call for help, but being in the middle of a large crowd does not count as out in the open. It is too easy for someone to pick your pocket unnoticed. And if someone attacks you, there are too many people in the way for you to run.
• Travel in groups. Two men are half as likely to be robbed as one, and four men are half as likely to be robbed as two. Never travel alone if you can help it.
• Know where you’re going. The less time you spend outside, the better, so don’t risk getting lost. Bring a map with you and study it carefully ahead of time. Make sure you know the  quickest, safest way home, no matter where you might be.
• Don’t go out at night. This should be self explanatory, but if it’s absolutely necessary, bring a flashlight. Don’t use the flashlight as that would just make you a target. But if some suspicious people approach you, shine the light on them. You’ll be able to see them and they won’t be able to see you. This way they’ll be more likely to back off.

Remember, humans are the most dangerous predator of all. And as the saying goes, you can never be too careful.