Staying Safe in Chicago

Wherever you are, safety should be your number one priority. Both as a parent and a person, it is

important to always ensure that no unnecessary risks are being taken.

In the event of an accident, you might want to seek a speak with a Chicago personal injury lawyer

(click the link for more information), however, there are some steps you can take to try to prevent

situations from occurring or escalating to that point...

Don’t Go Out Alone

This piece of advice is good both for parents and children. Particularly after dark, it is important that

you try not to be out on your own. While most people wouldn’t do anything, you can never

guarantee the actions of others. It is best to have someone with you, regardless of whether you’re

male or female, as you are less likely to become the victim of a crime if you’re not alone.

Chicago is a large city, and getting lost is a possibility. Again, it would become more manageable if

you aren’t alone. The importance of the buddy system is something you may also wish to impart

upon your children, especially if they will be heading off to college soon.

Scammers

Scammers and beggars are commonplace in Chicago. While you may wish to be a good person and

help those in need, there are occasions where it is better to keep to yourself. At times, these may be

a ruse that leads to theft or injury.

There is also an array of scammers who choose to prey upon the many tourists in Chicago. They

might offer their services as guides, or claim to be from a company or business you are dealing with,

in an attempt to get you to part with your money. These people may also prey on those with young

children to extort money for excursions the children would, supposedly, enjoy. Sadly, when you do,

they will usually leave, meaning you do not get the goods or service you were promised, and have

lost out financially.

To overcome this, it is best to only speak to reputable sales agents who have some form of business

ID or uniform, and to avoid giving money to anyone you do not know.

Keep Valuables Hidden

You might be proud of the items you have, but these can lead to crimes. This is another point that

might be worth reiterating to teenagers and older children. Smartphones in particular are a form of

personal belonging that thieves may target.

If possible, keep your phone and wallet in a zipped pocket. If you need to use a backpack, it can be a

good idea to have it padlocked, or only on one shoulder where you can keep an eye at all times.

Visiting Chicago isn’t solely dangerous. The issues here are similar to those found in any other city.

Regardless of your age, gender, or location in the world, it is always important to follow common

sense and safety guidelines to try and ensure you do not suffer any injury or loss of belongings.