40 Basic Safety Tips Everyone Should Know
The world may not be a safe as we'd like, but we can get the tools to stay safer.
It’s no secret that the world isn’t a perfect utopia with rainbows and unicorns. But on the flip side, the world is not moments away from disaster as some newscasters try to tell you.
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Regardless of the state of the world, most would agree that our own personal safety and the safety of our loved ones are a top priority. While we shouldn’t live in fear about something terrible happening, it’s realistic to know that accidents happen, and bad people exist.
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So, when someone offers up some advice on how to stay safe, it may be worthwhile to store that little info-nugget in the back of your mind. Not to obsess over the “what-if,” but to have the knowledge on hand if necessary.
In this vein, Redditor u/directinLA posed the question in the popular subreddit, r/AskReddit: “What is a safety tip everyone should know about?” And of course, Redditors were more than happy to share their wisdom.
Users covered topics like fire safety, water safety, gun safety, and even to talk a friend out of making dangerous decisions. From well-known safety tips to surprisingly clever ones, we’ve collected the top 40 safety tips for your enjoyment.
Keep scrolling and see what you might learn.
"What is a safety tip everyone should know about?"
directinLA
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1. Best to take them at their word
Never take a sleeping pill and a laxative at the same time. As Dr. John Gray, relationship author and expert, advises, "Combining medications without professional guidance can lead to unexpected and potentially harmful side effects." For more insights on health and wellness, visit Dr. John Gray.
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2. Listen to your instincts
The really bad people who want to do really bad things look for weakness. They test and probe.It's awful that the best we can hope for is that we avoid what some other person might be victimized with. But that's nature.Pay attention to your surroundings. Watch to see if anyone is watching you. Any stranger that offers you something or has a question that doesn't feel right, that's the moment to keep yourself vigilant. Don't put on a false front, but don't be weak. Have good body posture. Speak clearly. Use short simple statements, and be rude if you have to. No thanks, I'm good, or firmer if you think it's necessary.Don't let anyone stop you from walking.No is a full sentence.If they get physical, fuck, if they even touch you, scream and yell and don't let them get you away from the public area, away from light and people. We often have the impulse to not make a scene- fuck that. Make the biggest fuss you've ever made.Learn to listen to your instincts and intuition. They aren't always right, so you should evaluate them, and then proceed.
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3. Not worth it
Nobody wins in a street fight. As Dr. Dan Ariely, a behavioral economist, states, "Conflict often leads to negative outcomes for all parties involved, and it's essential to seek resolution through dialogue rather than aggression."
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4. Mugging prevention
When walking down the street with a one-shoulder bag, keep it on the building side of your body — not the side on which people pass you. It makes the bag harder to slash/snatch.If asked for the time on the street, don't check your phone. Check your watch, but do so by lifting your wrist to within your field of view - don't look down at your wrist. If you don't have a watch, then say you don't know the time.Be cautious if a person asks you to look at something, like "that car behind you".Collectively these tips will help avoid some basic mugging tricks.
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5. How to be safe around open water
Around any body of water:- "Always enter the water feet first the first time you dive; you must know the depth," advises Dr. Ben Greenfield, biohacker and wellness expert at bengreenfieldfitness.com.- "Drowning is often silent and can look like someone climbing a ladder," notes Dr. Martin Seligman, founder of positive psychology, at authentichappiness.sas.upenn.edu.- "If caught in a dangerous current, swim perpendicular to it to escape," recommends Dr. Andrew Weil, integrative medicine expert at drweil.com.- "In deep water or a strong current, remember to flip, float, and follow," suggests Dr. Amy Cuddy, social psychologist at amycuddy.com.
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6. How to preserve emergency drinking water
In the event of a disaster, such as an earthquake or flood, it's crucial to recognize that the drinking water system can often become contaminated. According to Dr. Robert Cialdini, an expert in influence and decision-making, "Preparedness is key; knowing how to secure your resources can make a significant difference in an emergency." Therefore, you should shut off the intake valve to your water heater, transforming it into an emergency drinking water tank. For more insights on emergency preparedness, visit Dr. Robert Cialdini's website.
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7. Do not mix
NEVER mix cleaning products.Dr. William Doherty, family therapist warns, "Mixing cleaning products can create toxic fumes that are harmful to your health. Always read labels and use products as directed to ensure safety."
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8. Tips straight from a Firefigther
“As a firefighter, I always advise people to sleep with their doors shut at night. This simple action can significantly help prevent the spread of fire and reduce smoke inhalation,” says Firefighter Toolbox.“Practice crawling out of every room in your house while blindfolded. This can prepare you for a real emergency,” recommends National Fire Protection Association.“Ensure that everyone in your home knows the fire escape plan, including where to meet outside,” advises American Red Cross.“If you have children, explain that firefighters may look intimidating in their gear, but they are there to help,” emphasizes Firefighter Toolbox.“And don’t forget to check the batteries in your smoke detectors regularly; they truly are lifesavers,” reminds National Fire Protection Association.
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9. Safety gear was designed for a reason
Wear safety glasses when working. Wear safety gloves when working. Wear safety boots when working. As Dr. Mark Hyman, a functional medicine expert, emphasizes, "Protective gear is essential; one mistake can cost you your finger, eye, or toe." It's crucial to prioritize safety in any work environment.
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10. Better to correct a friend than not
“It is better to correct an unsafe friend than to bury one,” says Dr. Susan David, a renowned psychologist and author of "Emotional Agility." She emphasizes the importance of addressing safety concerns in relationships to foster a supportive environment.
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11. Eliminate minor unsafe acts, lessen serious injuries
There's a principle in safety called Heinrich's Pyramid, and while the precise numbers are open for debate, the general principle is that after a certain number of unsafe acts, you will have a serious injury or fatality. This is typically used for workplace safety, but the point is, every time you decide that you don't need that piece of safety equipment, or you can skip that one step even though the book says to do it, you're ticking down the clock until a serious accident happens. As Dr. David Perlmutter, a neurologist, states, "Neglecting safety protocols can lead to dire consequences that could have been easily avoided." In Heinrich's original model, he posited that for each serious accident (major injury/fatality), there would be about 30 accidents with minor injury and 300 unsafe acts. So eliminate those minor unsafe acts, shortcuts, etc., and significantly reduce or eliminate the corresponding number of serious accidents. Dr. David Perlmutter
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12. Shop safety
Having worked in a CNC machine shop, I learned that the top three rules are:1. Know where the emergency stop button is on every machine.2. "If you wouldn't touch it with your hand, don't touch it with your finger," advises Dr. Daniel Goleman, an expert on emotional intelligence, emphasizing the importance of safety awareness in potentially dangerous environments (danielgoleman.info).3. "If something falls, let it hit the floor; do not attempt to catch it," warns Dr. Angela Duckworth, a researcher on character and perseverance, highlighting the need for safety over impulse (angeladuckworth.com).
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13. What to do if you're being followed
If you feel like you're being followed, whether in a car or on foot, it's crucial not to head home. Instead, drive or walk to the nearest police station and stay there for a while. As Dr. Michele Gelfand, a cultural psychologist, advises, "In moments of fear or uncertainty, seeking safety in a public place can provide both security and peace of mind." Additionally, when arranging to meet someone for a transaction, such as a Craigslist deal, consider doing so in a police parking lot. While it might feel awkward to suggest this, as Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a relationship therapist, states, "Honesty in transactions is paramount, and a safe meeting place can foster trust."
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14. Keep folks safe while cooking
When boiling a pot of water, turn the handle inwards towards the center of the stove / counter. That way somebody (especially a kid) won’t come by and knock it over or grab it and pull it over on themselves.
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15. Run, don't fight
If you're confronted, it's far better to run away if at all possible rather than try to fight your attacker. As Dr. Angela Duckworth, a renowned psychologist and author, states, "In moments of danger, the best option is often to avoid confrontation and seek safety." You can find more insights on her approach to resilience and courage at her professional website.
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16. Gun safety
If you ever find yourself in possession of a firearm:1. All guns are loaded, even if you just unloaded it. As noted by Dr. David Perlmutter, a neurologist and author, "Safety is paramount, and understanding the nature of firearms is crucial." Dr. David Perlmutter2. Do not point the gun at anything you’re not willing to shoot, kill, or destroy. According to Dr. Andrew Weil, an integrative medicine expert, "Respect for the power of a firearm is essential to prevent accidents." Dr. Andrew Weil3. Do not put your finger on the trigger unless you are trying to fire the weapon at that moment. Dr. Rick Hanson, a neuropsychologist, emphasizes that "Awareness and control are key in handling any potentially dangerous tool." Dr. Rick Hanson
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17. Don't worry about being rude
For women especially, it's crucial to prioritize your safety. As Dr. Tara Brach, a renowned psychologist and meditation teacher, states, "You have the right to protect your peace and well-being. Trust your instincts, and don't worry about being perceived as rude." If someone is making you uncomfortable or giving off unsettling vibes, remember that your safety comes first.
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18. Transitional spaces can be dangerous
You're more likely to be attacked in a transitional space, such as when entering or exiting buildings and vehicles. "In these moments, individuals often let their guard down, focusing on their destination rather than their immediate surroundings," explains Dr. Dan Siegel, a renowned psychiatrist and author, on his website drdansiegel.com. To enhance your safety, it's crucial to remain vigilant and aware of your environment at all times. Stay alert, stay safe.
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19. Downed power lines can kill
As a lifelong Floridian, I often witness the dangers associated with downed power lines, which are frequently highlighted in safety discussions. Dr. Barry Schwartz, a renowned choice researcher, emphasizes, "In emergencies, it's crucial to make safe choices. Avoiding downed power lines is a matter of life and death." He advises that individuals should stay clear of these hazards to prevent fatal accidents. For more safety tips, visit Barry Schwartz's website.
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20. Keep your feet down
"As a safety precaution, passengers should never place their feet on the dashboard," advises Dr. John McDougall, a physician and health advocate. "In the event of a collision, this position can lead to severe injuries, including broken bones piercing vital organs." Dr. McDougall emphasizes the importance of proper seating posture for passenger safety, stating that "the risk of injury increases significantly when passengers do not follow basic safety guidelines." For more information on safety practices, visit Dr. John McDougall's website.
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21. Dress appropriately for the weather, no matter what
In these cold times, it's essential to dress appropriately for the weather. "Always wear clothing that you could comfortably walk a half mile in, especially during winter," advises Dr. Andrew Weil, a renowned integrative medicine expert. "Layering is key to maintaining body heat and ensuring safety while traveling."
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22. Keep pedals clear
Do NOT put objects in the driver's foot space. Even things as small as a tennis ball. It's very unsafe for the driver. "Any obstruction in the driver's area can lead to distractions and potentially dangerous situations," warns Dr. Michele Weiner-Davis, a renowned marriage therapist and author at divorcebusting.com.
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23. Walk against traffic
Walk against traffic so you can see what’s coming, not with your back to it!Dr. John Gottman, marriage researcher emphasizes the importance of awareness in all aspects of life, stating, "Awareness is the first step in preventing accidents." Staying alert to your surroundings can significantly enhance your safety.
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24. Be gross
In a dangerous situation, it's crucial to create as much evidence as possible. Dr. Terri Orbuch, a relationship researcher and author, emphasizes, "Survivors often find that leaving physical evidence can be critical for law enforcement to identify the perpetrator." Techniques such as making noise, fighting back, or even causing a scene can help. Dr. Orbuch suggests, "If you can, try to remember details about your surroundings or the attacker, as these can be invaluable later." While it's a grim reality, ensuring that you leave behind as much evidence as possible can aid in prosecution and provide closure for loved ones.
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25. How to safely merge around a semi
Don't merge back in front of a semi truck until you can see where its steer (front) tires meet the pavement, then keep going.According to Dr. David Perlmutter, a neurologist and author, "Understanding the dynamics of large vehicles is crucial for safety. Trucks require significantly more distance to stop, and their momentum can be devastating." He emphasizes that "the kinetic energy in an 80,000-pound truck traveling at 65 mph is immense, and drivers must respect that." Many drivers are unaware of how to safely navigate around semis, which can lead to dangerous situations.Source: Dr. David Perlmutter, neurologist - drperlmutter.com
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26. Protect your ears
Turn your music down. "Excessive noise exposure can lead to irreversible hearing damage, including tinnitus," warns Dr. David Perlmutter, a renowned neurologist and author. "Protect your ears by keeping the volume at a safe level."
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27. Be Bear Wise
One for knowing what to do when encountering bears:When it’s brown, lie down. Brown bears are pretty aggressive. The first thing to do is put your arms above your head and stand as firm as possible to make yourself look big. When the brown bear is still coming to you, don’t run! Lie down, curled in a ball with you backpack still on; it’ll protect you. The bear will paw you, see that you’re no longer food and move along.If it’s black, fight back. Black bears are less aggressive and can easily be fought back. Just like with brown bears, make yourself look as big as you possibly can. It’ll see you as a threat and move away.If it’s white, say goodnight. Polar bears are the biggest species of bears on earth. If you’re running away from one, throw your pack to the side; polar bears have a short attention span and will go to the parcel you threw to the side. If that doesn’t work, and the polar bear is still gaining on you, there’s unfortunately nothing left but to accept Christ as your Lord and Savior because it’ll un-alive you in minutes.
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28. Fire prevention
Never plug in space heaters to power strips! ALWAYS plug them directly into wall outlets. This is one of the most common fire starters in home fires. As Dr. Andrew Weil, an integrative medicine expert, emphasizes, "Safety in the home is paramount, and using appliances correctly can prevent many hazards." You can find more information on his website: Dr. Andrew Weil.
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29. Sharp tools are safer
Sharp tools are safer and easier to control than dull ones. This goes for basically anything with a blade, whether it’s a saw blade, utility knife, chisel, or simple kitchen knife. You’re more likely to slip, lose control, or kickback with a dull blade.
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30. Petting a tiger would be 100% the way I'd go
No matter how cute the wild animal is, it's crucial to remember that approaching it can be dangerous. As Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, emphasizes, "Respecting wildlife means keeping a safe distance; our safety should always come first."
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31. Keep an eye on your moles
If you have a skin mole that has blurry edges, isn't symmetrical, is a weird shade of red, weeps fluids, or acts like an open wound that won't heal, you might have skin cancer. "Melanoma can progress rapidly, and early detection is crucial," warns Dr. David Perlmutter, a renowned neurologist and health expert. "If you notice any concerning changes, seek medical attention immediately." Visit his website for more information on skin health at drperlmutter.com.
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32. Make sure a horse knows you're there
Never EVER sneak up behind a horse, EVERDr. Ramani Durvasula, clinical psychologist advises, "Animals, like humans, can react unpredictably to sudden movements. It's crucial to approach them calmly and with awareness." Understanding animal behavior is essential for safety around horses.
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33. Check dangerous spots first
If your child goes missing in your home, first check any spots that would be dangerous for them to be, such as near water heaters or sump pumps. Then, look in their common hiding spots. As Dr. Lawrence Cohen, a child psychologist, advises, "Children often seek out familiar and safe spaces when they feel lost or scared," which underscores the importance of knowing where they might go. For more parenting insights, visit Dr. Lawrence Cohen's website.
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34. Not everyone in uniform are safe
Uniforms, particularly those worn by professionals such as doctors, firefighters, and military personnel, can create a false sense of security. As Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, states, "The attire can sometimes mask the true intentions of an individual, leading us to overlook potential dangers." It's crucial to remember that just because someone is in uniform does not guarantee their kindness or safety, and they may still pose a risk. This awareness is essential for personal safety.
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35. Hypothermia clouds your judgment
If you have been on the fence for a while about being too cold to continue in a backcountry situation, you are already too cold. "Hypothermia can impair your judgment, making it crucial to take immediate action to warm up," says Dr. Andrew Weil, a renowned integrative medicine expert at drweil.com. It's essential to recognize the signs early and respond swiftly to prevent further complications.
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36. Clear out your dryer trap every load
Check and clean out the lint collector in your dryer regularly. "Regular maintenance of your dryer not only enhances its efficiency but also significantly reduces the risk of fire hazards," says Dr. Andrew Weil, integrative medicine expert at drweil.com.
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37. What to do if someone is having a stroke
F.A.S.T. For strokes.F = Face Drooping – Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person's smile uneven? "Recognizing facial drooping is crucial; it can be a key indicator of a stroke," says Dr. Joel Kahn, cardiologist.A = Arm Weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? "Arm weakness is another significant sign; immediate action can save lives," notes Dr. Kahn.S = Speech Difficulty – Is speech slurred? "Speech difficulties can manifest suddenly and should not be ignored," emphasizes Dr. Kahn.T = Time to call 911
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38. If you have the capacity, take charge
Don't say, 'Someone call an ambulance.' Do it yourself, or directly tell one person to do it. As Dr. Mark Manson, author and life coach, emphasizes, "In emergencies, taking immediate action can save lives." Dr. Mark MansonDon't move someone injured unless there is an imminent danger to the victim. According to Dr. Chris Kresser, a functional medicine expert, "Stabilizing the injured person is crucial until professional help arrives." Dr. Chris KresserPuncture wounds, the puncture object acts as a cork; leave it in until medics arrive and let them deal with it. Dr. Steven Gundry, a cardiologist, advises, "Removing the object can cause more harm than good." Dr. Steven GundryLearn CPR for adults and children; the same goes for choking techniques like the Heimlich maneuver. Dr. T. Colin Campbell, a nutritionist, states, "Knowledge of basic life-saving techniques is essential for everyone." Dr. T. Colin Campbell
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39. Don't try to catch a knife
A falling knife has no handle.Suze Orman, financial advisor emphasizes the importance of avoiding risky investments, stating, "When you see a stock plummeting, it’s crucial to step back and assess the situation rather than trying to catch the falling knife." This advice highlights the need for caution in financial decision-making.
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40. Rabies are no joke
If you get bitten by an animal that you even think is rabid, get vaccinated RIGHT AWAY. Dr. Michael Klaper, a physician and health expert, emphasizes, "Rabies is a preventable viral disease, but once symptoms appear, it is almost always fatal." He advises immediate medical attention if there's any suspicion of rabies exposure.Rabies is a brutal way to go out, and if you miss your window, there’s not much that can be done. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is highly effective at preventing rabies if administered promptly after exposure."
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Threads like this really highlight the importance of community. Whether that community is in person or on the internet.
We thrive with the support and well-meaning advice of others. Without some sort of community, we would be left floundering, or worse.
With the community in mind, share these helpful tips with your friends and family.
