Outdoor Safety Tips for Women:
Predator's Favorite Targets

Spending time outdoors—whether walking to work, running errands, commuting, or enjoying a hike—should feel empowering, not threatening.

Understanding how predators assess and select potential victims can help you reduce your visibility as an easy target and respond more effectively when something feels off.

This page focuses specifically on the psychology and patterns of outdoor predation, backed by studies where researchers interviewed convicted violent offenders. For activity-specific advice, see my Running Safety, Walking & Biking Safety FAQ, Parking Lot Safety, and Street Crime Safety pages.

Predators Favorite Targets

Predators don't choose victims randomly. They quickly scan for signals of vulnerability. Key factors include:

► Gait and Body Language: Offenders consistently picked targets with small strides, slower pace, head down, limited scanning of surroundings. In contrast, fluid, purposeful walkers with heads up and arms swinging naturally were rated as much harder targets. This isn't about fitness—it's about projecting confidence and awareness.

► Distraction and Unawareness: Phone use, headphones, or appearing lost/distracted signals opportunity. Predators look for targets who won't notice they're being followed until they’re isolated.

► Isolation Opportunities: Someone who can be separated from others without immediate witnesses or escape routes. This includes predictable routines (same path, same time) or entering low-traffic areas.

► Other patterns from criminology research on "hunting styles" show some predators actively stalk outdoor spaces, while others opportunistically exploit momentary lapses in awareness.

And remember - females commit approximately 20% of violent crime (per the FBI). So evaluate ALL strangers by their behavior and red flags.

Predator's Favorite Outdoor Scenarios

► People who can be followed and isolated gradually (e.g., from a bus stop to a quieter street).

► Those in transitional or low-surveillance areas (paths, trails, parking approaches).

► Routine-based targets whose predictability allows planning.

The WORST: Hitchhiking or Accepting Rides from Strangers

Hitchhiking (or similar "helpful stranger" scenarios) gives control to someone you know nothing about, in a vehicle that can go anywhere. Avoid it entirely. If stranded, call for official help or use ridesharing apps with safety features.

OUTDOOR SAFETY CHECKLIST

► Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Vary routes and times when possible. 

► Adopt a confident gait - head up, shoulders back, purposeful stride, scanning your surroundings (the "360 rule"). Practice this daily so it becomes natural.

► Limit Distractions: Use headphones sparingly (one ear only, or none in unfamiliar areas). Keep phones in a pocket for quick access if needed, not glued to your face.

► If you sense someone following, go to a busy area where you can get help.

► Trust and Act on Instincts: If something feels wrong (someone loitering, matching your pace, or the environment shifting), cross the street, enter a business, or call for help immediately. Better a false alarm than regret.

► Stay near other people. Avoid secluded areas. Don’t jog or bike alone and don’t assume early morning jogs avoid predators.

► Engage Bystanders Effectively: Don't yell vaguely - point and give clear commands: "You in the red shirt - call 911, I'm being followed!" Specific directions overcome bystander hesitation.

► Watch for anyone following you. Some predators follow a woman home then push her in as she opens her door. She's better off outdoors while still able to summon help. Don’t go home unless someone is there who can truly help. Go instead to an active area or call the police.

► CARRY and KEEP Tools NEAR: Keep a Personal Security Alarm (screamer) and Pepper Spray accessible (e.g., on a wrist strap). Know how to use them effectively - see those pages for techniques.

► Jewelry and Valuables: Minimize visible flash. Use a money belt or hidden pockets if in higher-risk urban or tourist areas.

► When Taunted or Approached: Stay calm and non-reactive without escalating. Use a neutral, confident demeanor that deters without inviting confrontation. See Victim’s Options - Overview.

► If anyone is loitering around your destination (home, business, or parked car), go instead to an active area. 

                        Final Thoughts on Outdoor Empowerment

Awareness isn't paranoia - it's preparation that lets you enjoy the outdoors freely. By understanding how predators scan for easy opportunities (distraction, isolation, hesitant movement), you can shift the odds more in your favor through small, consistent habits.

This site draws from FBI/DOJ data, victim interviews, law enforcement insights, and criminology research. Always prioritize your intuition.

Enhancing Your Outdoor Safety Options

Keep a Personal Security Alarm (screamer or noisemaker) & Pepper Spray in easy reach. Those pages tell you how to use them most effectively.

NOTICE: This non-profit website is for informational purposes only and is drawn from the bibliography and USDOJ. Use the information at your own risk. See disclaimers.

Crime-Safety-Security > Outdoor Safety Overview > Predator's Favorite Targets

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