5 Ways to Boost Safety on Your Daily Work Commute

It’s easy to get into a routine on your daily work commute; you’ve probably even told someone that you could “get there with your eyes closed.” While you should relax on your commute to and from work, it’s important to remember that crime can happen anywhere, even public places. Being prepared is the best way to mitigate your risk.

Here are a few tips to staying safe as you commute to and from work every day. If something happens, you’ll be glad you were prepared.

Keep Gadgets in Your Bag

Cell phones, laptops, or tablets should always be kept in their cases and out of sight when not in use. If you leave your electronics out on the seat, even just for a minute, you’re inadvertently advertising something that someone may want to steal.

Don’t let it stick out of the top of the bag easier, making you a target for mugging.

Note that using your gadgets can also be distracting, making you an easier target. This also prevents you from noticing important details that you may need to share with police in the event that a crime does occur.

Be Alert

Be alert while walking with confidence and purpose and always hold your keys in your hand. When driving, check the backseat of your car before entering, and quickly get into the car and lock the doors. For extra precaution, look under and around your car before getting in it, suggests ProtectionAgainstCrime.com.

If you find that someone is trying to follow or engage with you while walking to your car, head to a well-lit and heavily populated area. Think: gas station, restaurant, bar, or better yet, a police station if it’s close.

Invest in a Self-Defense Product

Purchasing a self-defense product that you can carry with you when you commute is recommended for all commuters. Security experts at The Home Security Super Store share, “The most common self-defense weapons include pepper sprays, knives, batons, and stun guns. Small, portable, and legal in most states, these home defense weapons can be kept in a nightstand or carried in a purse in case of an emergency.”

Remember to practice using the item a few times before stowing it away in your work bag or purse. In a dangerous situation, you’ll be more confident and effective with it.

Remember: There’s Safety in Numbers

According to borderstan.com,  “the best way to protect yourself from a street robbery, or mugging, is to reduce your exposure to potentially being victimized.  Stay in groups, walk in well-lit areas, and pay attention to your surroundings. Thieves will look for ‘easy prey’ before they try to attack someone who is prepared.”

Always commute with co-workers or friends when possible. More importantly, never get off a deserted train, subway or train stop if you can avoid it. In this case, continue to the next stop and walk or take a cab to your final destination.

Don’t Forget Basic Car Safety Tips

Keep the windows closed or open just a small amount and doors locked at all times when sitting in your car. If someone approaches your vehicle and asks you to open your window, don’t do it. This could be an opportunity for a criminal to reach inside.

When leaving your car in the morning, tuck all valuables away and out of sight, in your glove compartment or trunk. If a criminal sees something worth stealing, they may attempt to break in or simply smash the glass and take what they want.

Carry Your Cell Phone At All Times

Always have a full cell phone battery before leaving your home or office. Know how to quickly access 9-1-1 on your cell, which in most cases it’s a 1-button command. To make it even easier, keep important numbers in your speed dial so they can be accessed quickly.

Take your safety a step further and set up your emergency contacts as voice commands so you don’t have to play with buttons in a panicked state.

Staying safe on your work commute may not be top of mind first thing in the morning or after a long day of work, but it’s critical that you’re prepared. If a situation occurs, you’ll be ready to take action and help yourself the best you can.

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Tired of the daily commute?  Watch this short video for  more reasons for not liking it!

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