The Indians Abroad

Commonsense tips on crime prevention and how to be safe in a foreign country

Safety doesn’t happen by accident. ~Author Unknown

Every country, neighborhood, every place has its flaws. One way or another, every city – big or small – is victim of crime. It is a part of the life; we are all exposed to some sort of danger all the time – at home or abroad.

In a foreign country, safety and security have always been keys concern of travelers and immigrants alike. Be it the streets of New York, south-side of Chicago, the suburbs of London,….. the safety is always in the forefronts of our thoughts.

An immigrant (or a minority) often considers herself/himself to be more exposed to the danger of personal safety for many reasons:

• The local criminals may feel it easier or less risky to go after an outsider, or a minority group.
• Many societies blame the immigrants for unemployment and job-loss issues, this social bias or grudge can contribute to the crimes against them.
• Many fanatics may single out the minorities as a cause of their social agenda, and target them.

While you cannot eliminate the racism or discrimination overnight, – even though it is a good wish, next to the cure of aging – there are certain things we can all do to be safer and more secure in a foreign land:

1. Select the residence location wisely: Pick a neighborhood with low crime rate that is safer to live. Do your research while selecting a residence. For example, many local newspapers publish information such as ‘Best places to raise a family’. A local real estate agent can also guide you to the safer areas. Avoid areas with known crime issues.

2. Avoid bad company: It is simple as that, however, easier said than done. The company and the circle of friends you keep play a big role in day-to-day interactions with the society. Steer clear of the gang and crime infected social circles. Avoid areas with gang activities; stay away from unsavory characters.

3. Lock doors and windows: Once you have a residence selected in a good neighborhood, make it secure and burglar-proof. Install good quality dead-bolt locks on all the exterior doors. Also, Install quality locks on all the windows. Keeping your placed locked provides extra sense of security.

4. Cut over-grown shrubs and trees around the residence: Make sure to remove or trim shrubbery that hides doors and windows. That way, neighbors or passersby can see someone trying to break into your home. Limit the hiding spots for a burglar by keeping the bushes and trees tidy and well-trimmed.

5. Well-lit Place: Always have a light outside the front door and other areas of entrance. A well-lit area discourages the thieves and bad guys.

6. Alarm System: Consider installing an alarm system. You should take into account different factors as the cost, the reputation of the company and the likelihood of false alarms etc.

7. Avoid ‘wrong place’ at all time: Do not travel at night to unsafe neighborhood. Avoid any other areas that you don’t feel comfortable in. Also, don’t take shortcuts through dark alleys alone.

8. Walking alone: If you really have to go somewhere, avoid walking alone in a new neighborhood that you are not familiar with. Walk on the streets where there are other people. If possible, ask some friend or family member to company you. Also, if you have to walk on the road, walk (on the side of) facing traffic so you can see approaching cars. Avoid earphones while walking alone. Wearing earphones and listening to music while walking in a remote and unfamiliar area can distract you, and could reduce your ability to sense potential danger.

9. Know your surroundings: Know where you are, where you going and who/what is around you. Be aware of any dangers or signs of danger. Keep eyes and ears Open, and hands Free. Familiarize with the area. For example, if you need to go out at night, familiarize with the safe stores and gas stations that stay open late at night. Find out the safe location and places of your interest – parks, stores, shopping area etc.

10. Avoid conflicts: Avoid dumb things (sorry, many times we create our won problems) in a foreign land. Don’t invite trouble by picking up a fight, taunting someone, making a rude remark. Avoid unnecessary argument with strangers and ….well, you got the idea.

11. Arm yourself in the bad neighborhood: Make sure to carry a fully charger cell phone. Where legal, carry pepper spray or mace or any other accessories to help in a threatening situation.

12. Never hitchhike: And do not accept rides from strangers.

13. Don’t publish your personal info: In a new place, socializing is a good idea, but don’t put your home address, telephone number etc. online for open access. Always be extra careful while sharing your address, passport number etc. with any person calling for anonymous survey, credit cards or other free offers.

14. Training to defend yourself: If you feel the need, take some classes on how to defend yourself. The trainer could also provide information on local crime prone neighborhoods and specific areas to avoid.

15. Don’t flash jewelry or large sum of cash: Avoid carrying too much cash, and more importantly, don’t flash it or display it in public.

16. Establish back-up and emergency contacts: Carry a list of contacts you can reach if need be. Make sure you know how to contact local police, e.g. which numbers to dial. If you have a medical condition, make sure to carry your prescription with you. Consider consulting a local doctor if condition worsens or if running out medication.

17. Car Safety: If driving through bad neighborhood, make sure to lock your car and be aware of the surroundings. Obey the traffic rules and be alert; always wear the seat-belt. Don’t park in remote or dark areas. And yes, don’t pick a fight with other drivers over little things. If you get in an accident and if you feel threatened by the other driver, making a call to the local law enforcement and reporting the accident is the best thing to do. Understand the local laws. For example, leaving the scene of accident can get you in trouble, even if you did not cause the accident.

18. Trust your gut feelings: If something does not seem right, it probably isn’t. Trust your instincts and shy away from such situations that don’t sound right.

19. Call police if threatened: Familiarize with local police and how to call them in emergency. Don’t hesitate to call the police if you feel your personal safety is in danger. Don’t wait for the situation to get worse.

20. If attacked….: If attacked or threatened physically, your first priority is your personal safety. Depending on the situation, look for the best way out, and the best way to call for help. Your local police station should have a detailed set of instructions that you should review. For example, the Los Angeles Police Department has instructions on crime prevention that are quite descriptive, including what to do if attacked. The basic police instructions are mostly same for the local residence – for natives and foreigners alike.

By end of the day, it comes down to commonsense. By taking some simple measures, as listed here, you can minimize the local risks and personal safety issues significantly. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

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