Ten from the top: ways to stay safe in Savannah
Ten from the Top is the weekly column of the very honest and often snarky thoughts of District’s editor-in-chief.
Now, I’m sure we all have the best intentions when it comes safety. We think that we’re never going to be that person walking back alone in the dark or who is in the wrong place at the wrong time. But, who ever thinks they are going to do that. The best intentions are still just intentions. So, for when maybe the best intentions fall short, here are a few things to try and stay safer both on and off-campus.
1. Pepper Spray
There’s a reason parents buy this for you when you leave for college. It can keep anyone who you need at a safe distance away from you and it’s certainly safer than a gun. Also, know what else on or around you can be a weapon? Hot coffee or a heavy textbook. Those can be quite good deterrents.
2. Buddy system
It may seem old-fashioned but just actually let someone know where you are going, get over being mysterious and spontaneous. “Hey, I’m leaving Arnold, see you home in ten minutes.” That’s it!
3. Get an app
If your friends really can’t be bothered by your safety: first, get new friends and second, do it yourself. There are tons of apps that you can put in safety procedures for everything under the sun. Just google safety apps or look at ones like “Watch Over Me” and “Stay Safe” to get started.
4. Get off your phone
There’s a reason people shouldn’t text and drive; phones are distracting! It’s no different if you’re walking somewhere. People can take advantage of that. “Apple picking” is one where someone will simply come take your phone while you are distracted looking at it. Just having it out can be a big distraction if someone starts to approach you while you’re busy checking Tinder.
5. Don’t leave anything you wouldn’t want taken
You may think it’s fine to leave your laptop real quick while you run to the bathroom, but, even in SCAD buildings, some people are desperate and don’t have a conscience. If you can’t live without it, don’t leave it! And if you can’t help it, don’t bring it.
6. Stay aware
Not only of what is around you but of what has been going on around you. The Savannah Chatham Police Department has an interactive crime map that shows all crimes that have happened recently. Keep an eye on things like this to see if there start to be multiple issues, especially if you take the same route from place to place.
7. Call an “Uber”
Get the number of a local cab company and put it in your phone immediately. Also, if you are trying to get anywhere around Savannah, Uber will be there super fast and will cost you maybe $10 to get home in a matter of minutes.
8. Don’t take the same route
In that same way, if you ride your bike home from class at 8 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday, chances are someone has noticed. That might seem like nothing but it might also mean someone along that route. Switching it up every once and awhile might not hurt.
9. Know the safe places to go
Savannah has the bad reputation of going from super safe to very sketchy within a block or two. Knowing what areas are safe is something everyone should know. A good rule of thumb is: the more visible you are, the better. And if you see a lot of tourists you are probably in a pretty good spot.
10. Know what is a threat
It’s not always easy to tell who could potentially be dangerous, but don’t always assume just because you are alone at night you will get mugged or worse. I have been approached in broad daylight as much, if not more, than at night. Just because someone is bigger or wearing a hoodie doesn’t mean they can’t be friendly. Just be aware and trust your gut.
