Being in public alone can be dangerous if you’re not aware of your surroundings, especially because people can be wildly unpredictable. Here in Elkins, the Mountain State Forest Festival is one of the most crowded, busy times of the year. Many parents are often concerned with how their children stay safe during this exciting yet highly populated time. Here are simple, watered-down tips to stay as safe as possible.
- Do not go out alone when it’s dark and you’re in a highly populated area.
- Have a reliable person you can contact if needed.
- Pay attention to what’s going on around you, and avoid earbuds or loud music while being in public.
- Don’t be afraid to speak up about something if something seems “off” or suspicious.
- Always have an exit plan, look for places that allow you to leave if an emergency were to occur.
Having a close friend with you when you’re in public, especially in a crowded area like a mall, or during an event like parades, or amusement parks is a good idea. And if you do go out alone, be sure to have some form of legalized self-defense equipment (ex. Pepper spray), or if possible a form of contact with someone who you could share your location with, and/or call. Finally, being aware of your surroundings can be very beneficial to you in a tight situation.
