We all know texting while driving is a huge no-no. You shouldn’t do it because you are a risk to other people when you aren’t paying attention to the road. However, driving isn’t the only time you should leave your phone in your pocket in order to be safe. Anytime you are in an unfamiliar place (especially at night) with few people around you, pay attention to your surroundings, not your phone.
I have noticed many times in downtown Atlanta late at night, college kids walking with their face down paying attention only to the phone and completely oblivious to their surroundings. Nothing says “mug me” more than this. If you think about it, phones are a prime item to steal because they are small and easy to sell. Of course, this is insignificant compared to your personal well being.
I’m not saying you should be looking over your shoulder ever 10 seconds, but to simply pay attention to your environment, not your phone. Your Twitter/Facebook status can be updated once you are in a safe place.
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Unfortunately, I think the people who need to read this article are the ones who are going to dismiss it without thought. Good article Jason, if there were only a way to pull the masses away from their phones long enough to think about it.
Sorry in advance if I offend anyone with these facts. Here in our country you’re lucky if just got mugged. There are instances where you get gunned down by motorcyclists who doubles back after seeing you carrying a phone in the streets. Though this is not a rampant case but I’ve heard it on the news 2 or 3 times within this year. Usually you have 2 suspects. One’s the rider, the other is the gunner and charged with the taking victim’s valuables. However, I guess this may not be the worse case anyone has heard. What else do you guys have to share in line with using phones on the go?
I would also suggest that people not keep their ears completely plugged tuned into something either. Hearing and listening to surroundings is also part of the safety behaviour we should be maintaining.