On today’s special edition holiday Byrna Pro Tip, I’m giving you the top five tips for staying safe in crowded public spaces this holiday season.

1.Stay Aware: Try to avoid being buried in your phone and completely disconnected while out in public. If you’re inside, stay aware of where the nearest exit is in case of an emergency and pay attention to the people around you. My go-to trick is to look at faces; they are a great indicator if someone is about to get violent.

2. Protect Your Belongings: Densely packed areas are a favorite of thieves and pickpockets. Keep things like wallets and phones either in internal jacket pockets or your front pockets. If you’re wearing a sling bag or purse, move it to the front of your body and in view, making it much harder for someone to get into without your knowledge.

3. Plan Your Trips: Try to plan those shopping trips so that you are done before nightfall when possible. If you are out at night, try to stick to well-lit and well-traveled areas in case you need help. While going out in groups is always a great idea, if you’re headed out alone, share your location with a friend just in case.

4. Be Prepared: You should always be prepared to be your own first responder. Make sure you’re carrying a self-defense tool like a Byrna SD or LE, or even some Byrna Bad Guy Repellent.

5. Always make sure your cell phone is charged in case you have to call for help. If I’m going to be out at night, I always carry a flashlight. It’s incredibly useful but can also be a great deterrent in a pinch.

Bonus Tips for Holiday Events: We all love going to those Christmas light festivals or North Pole carnivals, but do some research before you go. Will parking be in a safe, well-lit area that’s close to the event? Does the event allow weapons if you’re carrying a self-defense tool? What are the peak times that you may want to avoid, and will there be on-site security?

The holiday season should be a time of goodwill and cheer, but just in case someone has other plans for you, with these tips, I know you will be prepared to defend yourself.