City people - walking alone in the dark?

[wildrice]

Obviously, I know this should be minimized whether you are in a city or not.

But I have always lived in an area where you drive everywhere. Now, I live downtown in a city (Baltimore) and walking is necessary. I take the train to work, so I know I will be walking during the evening commute in the dark.

I like to go to the gym at 5:30am. Most of the time my H comes with me, but sometimes he wants to sleep in. If I'm awake anyway, I'd rather just go, but right now that means walking in the dark. WWYD? Being downtown, it is always well lit and at 5:30 there are plenty of cars, buses, commuters, etc around. Still, I walk past multiple people who are just loitering around, sleeping, etc - likely homeless. They seem harmless but I don't know. I tend to be a little naive so I don't trust my street instincts I guess.

If you live or have lived in a city, and walk by yourself in the dark, any tips or rules you have for yourself that I should follow? 

I don't really plan to walk around in the dark by myself otherwise, but I also hate the idea of being trapped if my H doesn't want to come with me for whatever reason in the winter months...if I want to run to grab food, the drug store, whatever. I can of course drive places but depending on how far I want to go, it would be a PITA to park. Parking at my current gym is not an option.

[cabbagecabbage]

I just walked. Quickly, head up, on the sidewalk, in the streetlights, in busy neighborhoods, no alleys or shortcuts into the park. I took a cab if it was a sketchy neighborhood or super late but some homeless people wasn’t indicative of a bad neighborhood in Chicago. I don’t know Baltimore. It took years of city living to feel confident but I just did it.

[lovelyshoes]

I feel like cities always have a ton of people doing the same things as you early and late. I grew up in nyc and it’s busy 24/7.
Go once with your h and see how you feel and take it from there. I think 5:30 should be busy enough that you don’t feel alone.

[mrsukyankee]

I never had a single issue with walking in the dark in London and do it all the time. I am more aware of my environment then, but unless it's after 1am in a weird part of town, there are usually people around. Stick to the lit and busier areas and you should be okay.

[Vespasia]

I would have zero issue walking around that area at that time. Like others said, stay aware and don't wander around looking at your phoine. Don't look scared, make eye contact. 

ETA: Posted too soon. 

[tacokick]

I’d just do it. Baltimore is a little less of a 24 hr city than some other big cities but I know a ton of people who walk to the gym, walk their dogs or jog at that time. It’s early but not insanely so. Just pay attention to your surroundings.

We never walk with headphones on but I know a lot people think that is overkill. We also avoid talking on the phone while walking around if people are scarce. I’ve never had any real problem beyond the usual drug offers that I politely decline lol I would not worry about the homeless.

[Vespasia]

Sept 5, 2018 14:49:17 GMT -5 tacokick said:

I’d just do it. Baltimore is a little less of a 24 hr city than some other big cities but I know a ton of people who walk to the gym, walk their dogs or jog at that time. It’s early but not insanely so. Just pay attention to your surroundings.

We never walk with headphones on but I know a lot people think that is overkill. We also avoid talking on the phone while walking around if people are scarce. I’ve never had any real problem beyond the usual drug offers that I politely decline lol

I don't wear them when walking (or will just have one earbud in if jogging) but that's more worries about cars than people. Either way it's good advice. 

[wildrice]

Sept 5, 2018 14:49:17 GMT -5 tacokick said:

I’d just do it. Baltimore is a little less of a 24 hr city than some other big cities but I know a ton of people who walk to the gym, walk their dogs or jog at that time. It’s early but not insanely so. Just pay attention to your surroundings.

We never walk with headphones on but I know a lot people think that is overkill. We also avoid talking on the phone while walking around if people are scarce. I’ve never had any real problem beyond the usual drug offers that I politely decline lol

Haha. Nobody has offered me drugs yet! But I do have people ask for money, make some kind of comment, or try to sell me something (red bull, batteries, etc) pretty much daily.  Nobody has been threatening at all yet, but being approached in the dark does sound less like something I'd be comfortable with. That is probably not reasonable, though, because what difference does it make really?

[Eagles]

I grew up and still live in the city so I have a different experience. I have and do walk in the dark. That being said, it's a good idea to form safe habits. Don't wear earbuds or read your phone. Keep an awareness of anyone behind you (male, female, doesn't matter). Head up, walk with purpose.

Honestly and unfortunately, women need to be vigilant.

[joy]

I walk to my car in Philly (parked on the street) every morning at 5:45am.

I walk quickly, confidently, aware of my surroundings, no ear buds or playing on my phone.

I’m far more comfortable in the dark evenings than dark mornings but alas. You do what you gotta do

[wildrice]

Sept 5, 2018 14:50:19 GMT -5 jamie.1022 said:

Where in Baltimore are you? Pm me if you want.

Most of the time I would say, like pp, walking quickly, head up, no headphones or phone. But where you're walking could change my mind.

Actual downtown - I'm a few blocks north of Camden Yards. I think most of the crime in my area is petty crime vs violent, if that helps!

[tacokick]

Sept 5, 2018 14:53:43 GMT -5 wildrice said:

Sept 5, 2018 14:49:17 GMT -5 tacokick said:

I’d just do it. Baltimore is a little less of a 24 hr city than some other big cities but I know a ton of people who walk to the gym, walk their dogs or jog at that time. It’s early but not insanely so. Just pay attention to your surroundings.

We never walk with headphones on but I know a lot people think that is overkill. We also avoid talking on the phone while walking around if people are scarce. I’ve never had any real problem beyond the usual drug offers that I politely decline lol

Haha. Nobody has offered me drugs yet! But I do have people ask for money, make some kind of comment, or try to sell me something (red bull, batteries, etc) pretty much daily.  Nobody has been threatening at all yet, but being approached in the dark does sound less like something I'd be comfortable with. That is probably not reasonable, though, because what difference does it make really?

People offer me drugs all the time! What kind of vibe am I giving off? I walked from the harbor to the courthouse for jury duty at 7:15 AM one day and got offered them 4x!

I don’t like being approached in the dark either but early in the morning hopefully they will be too tired to bother. I just stay alert and avoid eye contact if possible. I also try to walk closer to the curb vs buildings so it is better lit and if something happened, hopefully someone in a car would see and/or I could get away without heading into an alley or something. Plus if it is the same people they will get used to you and not bother you after awhile. People don’t normally hassle people they “know” and that’s early for people who just want to rip off tourists.

[wildrice]

Sept 5, 2018 15:03:35 GMT -5 tacokick said:

Sept 5, 2018 14:53:43 GMT -5 wildrice said:

Haha. Nobody has offered me drugs yet! But I do have people ask for money, make some kind of comment, or try to sell me something (red bull, batteries, etc) pretty much daily.  Nobody has been threatening at all yet, but being approached in the dark does sound less like something I'd be comfortable with. That is probably not reasonable, though, because what difference does it make really?

People offer me drugs all the time! What kind of vibe am I giving off? I walked from the harbor to the courthouse for jury duty at 7:15 AM one day and got offered them 4x!

I don’t like being approached in the dark either but early in the morning hopefully they will be too tired to bother. I just stay alert and avoid eye contact if possible. I also try to walk closer to the curb vs buildings so it is better lit and if something happened, hopefully someone in a car would see and/or I could get away without heading into an alley or something. Plus if it is the same people they will get used to you and not bother you after awhile. People don’t normally hassle people they “know” and that’s early for people who just want to rip off tourists.

Lol! I have no idea. You don't seem like a drug user to me I've observed plenty of drug use (particularly on the street behind my building since it's a dead end) but so far nobody has thought I was interested in buying yet. I'm sure it will happen at some point.

That's a good idea about sticking to the curb. Speaking of drug use outside my building, perhaps I should stick to the front door since that's more of a main street (going out the back is quicker). 

[ECB]

I lived downtown for 11 years and was never offered drugs. Idk tacokick - you clearly give off a vibe. 😉

[flex]

I walk with purpose--like I know where I'm going. Also, I plan ahead as to how much daylight will be available: whether in the morning or in the evening if I'm going to an event, etc. If I know it's going to be dusky or dark, I'll take along a small flashlight that will fit in my pocket or purse, PLUS I also have a tiny little whistle on my keychain in case I need help. I really doubt I'll ever need to use it for walking in the dark, but it's nice to have. (I also use it when I go tidepooling on the coast in case I break a leg, etc., while on the rocks.)

[tacokick]

Sept 5, 2018 15:13:12 GMT -5 ECB said:

I lived downtown for 11 years and was never offered drugs. Idk tacokick - you clearly give off a vibe. 😉

I really must. I was just offered weed at Lake Montebello an hour ago lol

[tacokick]

Sept 5, 2018 15:13:09 GMT -5 wildrice said:

Sept 5, 2018 15:03:35 GMT -5 tacokick said:

People offer me drugs all the time! What kind of vibe am I giving off? I walked from the harbor to the courthouse for jury duty at 7:15 AM one day and got offered them 4x!

I don’t like being approached in the dark either but early in the morning hopefully they will be too tired to bother. I just stay alert and avoid eye contact if possible. I also try to walk closer to the curb vs buildings so it is better lit and if something happened, hopefully someone in a car would see and/or I could get away without heading into an alley or something. Plus if it is the same people they will get used to you and not bother you after awhile. People don’t normally hassle people they “know” and that’s early for people who just want to rip off tourists.

Lol! I have no idea. You don't seem like a drug user to me I've observed plenty of drug use (particularly on the street behind my building since it's a dead end) but so far nobody has thought I was interested in buying yet. I'm sure it will happen at some point.

That's a good idea about sticking to the curb. Speaking of drug use outside my building, perhaps I should stick to the front door since that's more of a main street (going out the back is quicker). 

I would definitely stick to more main streets/entrances when possible.

I’m surprised no one is trying to sell you drugs! My husband and I both get it all the time. lol

[snorky]

I’ve lived in a few big cities and honestly, I’ve had more problems during the day than at night. Don’t make eye contact, know your course, don’t talk to strangers (lol), and you will most likely be good.

[devonpow]

I've never been worried walking home at night due to people on the street/around me. Walk confidently and be aware of your surroundings - I try not to listen to my headphones when it's late at night, etc. There are a few places I won't take short cuts down dark, lonely alleys, but that's about it. 

[devonpow]

Also, always trust your gut - but this is for any situation. Twice I have gotten a very bad vibe off a person - not walking at night, but once at the gym and once at a store. Each time I called someone to come and walk back with me instead of walking alone. Maybe I overreacted and the person was totally fine but who cares. If I have a bad feeling about someone I don't mess around. If someone on the street makes you uncomfortable go into the nearest store, etc and tell someone there.

[cabbagecabbage]

Sept 5, 2018 15:03:35 GMT -5 tacokick said:

People offer me drugs all the time! What kind of vibe am I giving off?

I’ve had this happen to me many times. I must give off the same vibe. I remember once being approached leaving a job interview in my most sedate navy suit and heels. How? Why?

[yentl]

I walk about a mile for my daily commute in Philly. I don't get off work until 8:00 pm or later most nights, so this is a common occurrence for me. It's never been a major issue. Just typical cat calling comments on occasion. I really only feel uncomfortable walking very late at night, like midnight or whatever, when there's very few people around.

[tacokick]

Sept 5, 2018 15:46:40 GMT -5 cabbagecabbage said:

Sept 5, 2018 15:03:35 GMT -5 tacokick said:

People offer me drugs all the time! What kind of vibe am I giving off?

I’ve had this happen to me many times. I must give off the same vibe. I remember once being approached leaving a job interview in my most sedate navy suit and heels. How? Why?

I’m glad it’s not just me! I only wear dresses and I’m often one of the most dressed up people on the street so I don’t think it’s clothing related. It must be our aura.

They always look a little surprised when I turn them down too. ??

[wildrice]

Sept 5, 2018 15:26:10 GMT -5 tacokick said:

Sept 5, 2018 15:13:09 GMT -5 wildrice said:

Lol! I have no idea. You don't seem like a drug user to me I've observed plenty of drug use (particularly on the street behind my building since it's a dead end) but so far nobody has thought I was interested in buying yet. I'm sure it will happen at some point.

That's a good idea about sticking to the curb. Speaking of drug use outside my building, perhaps I should stick to the front door since that's more of a main street (going out the back is quicker). 

I would definitely stick to more main streets/entrances when possible.

I’m surprised no one is trying to sell you drugs! My husband and I both get it all the time. lol

I am seriously cracking up over this. I have no idea why you would be offered drugs regularly and I am not. Maybe I don't look like I belong in the city yet? Am I too much of a corn fed midwesterner vibe? (not that midwesterners aren't into drugs as much as anyone else). Honestly I have no clue. I have walked downtown almost every day for the last 2 months so I think I'm overdue for an offer

[starburst604]

I worked in and lived near Boston for a long time and never worried about walking early or late, and agree with the recommendations of caution, and DEFINITELY trust your gut.

My friend was attacked in the early morning heading to the gym in the city, and the guy didn’t even sneak up on her. He crossed the street toward her and stared right into her eyes. She KNEW he had bad intentions but it happened so fast. He punched her in the face and stole her laptop bag. Fortunately he was arrested a very short time later and turned out she was the third woman he’d assaulted in 12 hours.

[tacokick]

Sept 5, 2018 15:58:46 GMT -5 wildrice said:

Sept 5, 2018 15:26:10 GMT -5 tacokick said:

I would definitely stick to more main streets/entrances when possible.

I’m surprised no one is trying to sell you drugs! My husband and I both get it all the time. lol

I am seriously cracking up over this. I have no idea why you would be offered drugs regularly and I am not. Maybe I don't look like I belong in the city yet? Am I too much of a corn fed midwesterner vibe? (not that midwesterners aren't into drugs as much as anyone else). Honestly I have no clue. I have walked downtown almost every day for the last 2 months so I think I'm overdue for an offer

You are! Let me know when it happens.

I don’t think I look like someone who buys drugs from randos on the street either but I must!

[lexxasaurus]

I walked around when I lived in a big city cause the gas station, work, etc were pretty close by. Be aware, and avoid the super sketch areas but I always felt okay doing it so if you think your neighborhood is relatively safe I say try it and see if you're comfortable with it. I would also hate to feel stuck because your H didn't want to tag along.

ETA: I have been offered drugs but I just say no and keep walking. So far, no problems.

[wildrice]

Sept 5, 2018 16:34:51 GMT -5 tacokick said:

Sept 5, 2018 15:58:46 GMT -5 wildrice said:

I am seriously cracking up over this. I have no idea why you would be offered drugs regularly and I am not. Maybe I don't look like I belong in the city yet? Am I too much of a corn fed midwesterner vibe? (not that midwesterners aren't into drugs as much as anyone else). Honestly I have no clue. I have walked downtown almost every day for the last 2 months so I think I'm overdue for an offer

You are! Let me know when it happens.

I don’t think I look like someone who buys drugs from randos on the street either but I must!

Lol no, you seriously do not. If you put us next to each other I don't think you'd be able to guess which of us is likely to take them up on the offer haha.

Must just be luck!!!

[tacokick]

Sept 5, 2018 16:40:13 GMT -5 wildrice said:

Sept 5, 2018 16:34:51 GMT -5 tacokick said:

You are! Let me know when it happens.

I don’t think I look like someone who buys drugs from randos on the street either but I must!

Lol no, you seriously do not. If you put us next to each other I don't think you'd be able to guess which of us is likely to take them up on the offer haha.

Must just be luck!!!

Someone literally invited me to smoke weed and “hang” with him at the park this afternoon. lol

[irishbride2]

When I lived in Bmore, it depended. There were areas I would walk and areas I wouldn't. I regularly had gunshots and violent fights in the park outside my apt, so I generally didn't walk around my place much at night. Now, when I lived in London, I walked at night by myself often.

It just depends.