This is an old revision of the document!
DRAFT
Safety
“Feeling safe isn't the same thing as *being* safe.” - secessus
There are at least three broad categories of threats to consider:
violent crimes (robbery, assault), greatly overestimated
property crimes (vandalizm, burglary), greatly overestimated
unsafe choices, greatly underestimated
general safety
A charged cellphone with coverage in the area may be the most important piece of safety equipment.
I have no tips for feeling any particular way.
As far as actually being safe:
areas of lower population density are safer from than cities. Lowest crime rate would be boondocking out on your own somewhere.
maintain situational awareness
be ready to move if needed. This means deploying nothing that requires work before leaving: awning, lawn chairs, bbq, tilted or portable panels
park in such a way that you can pull out without backing
be aware of multiple exit routes
if in a restaurant, etc, sit where you can see the van from your table
get a carry license if you are so inclined, and have the discipline to know and follow relevant laws
if in the city, park under street lights
get a dog
campsite awareness
avoid camping in or beyond
desert washes. The water can rise suddenly in your camp, or block egress from the camp.
1)
carry extra food and water in case water or mud makes it impossible to get back to town. It will dry out in a day or two.
2)
park facing outwards so that you can put it in to drive instead of having to back out of a parking spot
3)
scout out another way out of the campsite in case the primary exit is blocked
4)
leave the drivers' seat clear of stuff so that you can get in it without delay
5)
put your keys where you can find them easily and always in the same place. Example: in the left drink holder of the console
6)
critters
Be aware of snakes, bears, and the like when in wildlife area. In built-up areas stray dogs will be a more likely threat.
humans
Situational awareness7) is key. Noticing actual threats is the first step to neutralizing actual threats.
dangerous weather
solo females
Additional tips that may be helpful for solo female travelers:
choose parking areas that are NOT in large metropolitan areas but rather in smaller urban communities…lower crime rates and more upscale neighborhoods.
sleep in something you can drive in suddenly if needed, without the need for additional coverup