As a crime and security consultant, I’m often asked questions about how safe runners really are and what measures can be taken to lessen the chances of becoming a victim of crime. I’ve put together a few of the more common questions to help you make informed decisions about being safe on the road.
Q. Is it safe to run in Jamaica?
A. Yes, however, the landscape has changed considerably over the last year or so and many people are increasingly desperate about where the next dollar is coming from. Having said that, similar to any country with a big city, if you’re sensible and alert to the dangers and stick to the pre-planned, well lit routes, you really needn't worry. Being alert is very important, evidence suggests that the robbers will often drive by more than once, scanning their intended victims and picking out those who are wearing or carrying items that they want to steal.
Q. What is your best advice to prevent me from becoming the victim of a robbery?
A. There is no single answer to this question, but here are my top four tips; 1. Don’t run alone, 2. Don’t wear jewelry, 3. Don’t wear gadgets, 4. Stay very alert and trust your gut if something is looking creepy or unfamiliar and act accordingly.
Q. What should I do if I’m about to be attacked?
A. There are at least three options which carry a LOW, MEDIUM and HIGH risk of physical harm; L. You can submit and not put up a struggle, hand over everything you have, observe and stay calm. M. Have a small, light and unobtrusive dummy wallet/purse tucked into your clothing to throw over the head or to one side of the assailant, accompanied by words like; “This is all I’ve got” and run in the opposite direction. In all probability, they’re going to focus on the item and allow you to escape. H. Put up a fight, aim to cause as much pain as you can in the first few seconds. Target the eyes, throat and testicles. Scream for help! Please be warned; unless you’re a strong and capable fighter with a solid background in self defense or a martial art, this is not an option for you. Always bear in mind that robbers sometimes carry weapons, it’s good advice to assume they intend to use one to get what they want.
Q. Who do these robbers target?
A. Consider these two scenarios; a) A lone runner, head down, wearing a watch, headphones, earrings, shiny necklace, diamond/silver rings, in a dark, quiet avenue.
b) Same runner, in a group of three or four, no visible gadgets, no jewelry, very alert and actively scanning their surroundings in a well lit and busy road. Need I say more?
Q. How can I prepare for an attack?
A. The element of surprise is their chief weapon, so create a quick plan with your group. Decide what you’re most likely to do when it happens. The plan doesn’t have to be complex, it can be as simple as, “If we’re attacked, we’re going to throw our dummy packages in one direction and run in several different directions”. Alternatively, “We’re going to submit, hand over our belongings and stay as calm as possible.” Obviously, every attack is different in terms of the number of assailants, the number of runners, the venue and your collective attitude and decision making in those first few seconds. But having even the most basic plan can buy you time and an increased chance of escape and/or avoiding bodily harm. Some runners carry a whistle which may panic the robber and hopefully scare him off, but you’ll alert fellow runners.
Q. Should I report an attack to the Police?
A. Absolutely! Even failed attacks MUST be reported. Police will ask you for physical description(s), clothing, vehicle ID, direction of travel, weapons seen, words used, etc. So try to remain as calm as you can and observe all that’s taking place. That critical information helps them to build a picture of the assailants, target them and prevent further attacks. The information must also be passed asap to the attendant Security Company.
In conclusion; if you run in a vacuum you instantly become an easy target. In my view, all the circumstances favor the robber; the time of day, the element of surprise, no alarm systems, no cameras, grills or high walls and the ‘loot’ is valuable, small, easy to conceal and practically weightless. But in my opinion, if you seriously consider this advice you’ll probably be fine.
Finally, three points to consider:
1) Robbers love bling and gadgets.
2) If you can’t afford to lose it, don’t wear it.
3) Awareness buys you time and time buys you options.