A mugging can be a very traumatic experience apart from also resulting in loss of money and valuable belongings. There are many precautions you can take to avoid being mugged, but of all these precautions fail and you find yourself face to face with a mugger, here are 7 ways to get out of a mugging.
1. Make a Call
If you are afraid that the person approaching you could pose a threat, take your mobile phone out and make a call to someone who is close by. Make sure you can be heard and say loudly and clearly that you may be in trouble. Most muggers will stay clear if they think you can give their description to someone on the phone.
2. Call 911
If you go beyond doubt and are absolutely certain that you are on the verge of being mugged, call 911 while you can. Make sure you can be heard loud and clear and state your location and the fact that you are in fear for your life.
3. Run towards Crowded Areas
If you are close enough to a crowded place like a café and you are absolutely certain that you can outrun your would-be mugger, then you may want to make a run for it. However, if you are not so sure about being able to get away, then the best way to get out of a mugging is not to antagonize the mugger.
4. Shout for Help
If you are in a decent area and you think shouting for help might actually do you any good, only then shout for help. Only do this, if you are sure of getting results or scaring away the mugger. Else, you will only end up antagonizing him.
5. Don’t Be Confrontational
This is not a good time to pick a fight. Especially, if the mugger is armed, it is best to avoid any kind of argument with him. If he gets too angry, he may lash out at you and injure you in the process.
6. Comply with His Demands
If you see no way out, the best thing to do to get out of a mugging is to comply with the demands of the mugger without creating any hassles. Your aim should be to get out of the situation as soon as possible without any bodily harm. Your life is more important than your possessions.
7. Make Note of His Appearance
Without making direct eye contact, try and get his description as best as you can. Make a note of his height, his size, his hair color, his eye color, his clothes, any distinguishing scars or marks on his body. The better you can describe him to the police, the better are your chances of recovering your lost possessions.
It is true that if you let the mugger get away, you will lose some possessions of value, especially things like cash, watch, jewelry, phone, mp3 player, etc. As far as bank cards are concerned, you can always get them to stop payment. Worry about getting out safe and sound by following these 7 ways to get out of a mugging rather than with all your possessions intact.
Top image source: timeszp.com
Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s the first thing I should do if I’m being mugged?
- Stay calm and try to assess the situation; avoiding panic can help you think clearly and respond effectively.
- Is it better to fight back or comply during a mugging?
- It depends on the situation, but generally, giving up your belongings quickly can often keep you safer than resisting.
- How can I use my body language to avoid being targeted?
- Walk confidently, make eye contact, and avoid looking distracted to appear less vulnerable to potential muggers.
- Are there any self-defense tools recommended for women?
- Pepper spray or a personal alarm can be effective non-lethal tools to deter attackers and call for help.
- What should I do if I can’t escape during a mugging?
- Try to stay calm, look for opportunities to escape, and remember details about the attacker for reporting to authorities.
- How can I prepare myself mentally to handle a mugging?
- Visualize potential scenarios and plan simple responses, which can help reduce fear and improve reaction time.
- Is running away a good option during a mugging?
- If there’s a clear path and it’s safe to do so, running away quickly can be the best way to get out of danger.
- Are there places I should avoid to reduce my risk of being mugged?
- Try to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas, especially at night, and stay in well-populated, safe spaces when possible.
- What should I do immediately after escaping a mugging?
- Find a safe place, call emergency services, and report the incident with as many details as you can recall.
- How can I help others stay safe from muggings?
- Share safety tips, encourage awareness of surroundings, and support community efforts to improve local security.