With Netflix coming up with a number of hit shows and documentaries about serial killers, it seems that we can’t get enough of them. But while we’re all enthralled by these stories, it’s important to remember that real serial killers do exist and that some of these dangerous criminals are still out there looking for their next victim. So how can you protect yourself from becoming a victim? Here are some valuable life-saving tips:
How to Protect Yourself From A Serial Killer When You’re Out
Be aware of your surroundings
The best way to avoid being a victim of a serial killer is to spot danger before it happens. Always observe your surroundings and be aware of who and what is happening around you. Keep a look out for people who look suspicious.
Watch out for red flags
If a person is making you feel uncomfortable in any way, that’s a major red flag. It’s best to avoid them and move to a different and safer area.
Watch out for people who seem to be always watching and following you. Stalking is a common trait of many serial killers. This predatory behavior has been seen in Jeffrey Dahmer, aka the “Milwaukee Cannibal,” who stalked many of his victims until he managed to persuade them to come back to his place where they eventually met their end. Dahmer drugged his victims before killing and dismembering them. In some cases, he also ate his victims.
Another common warning sign is sudden or unexpected changes in behavior. For example, they may become aggressive or irritable for no reason. This change in demeanor can be quite alarming and should not be ignored.
Many serial killers often use manipulation to get what they want. They may try to make you feel sorry for them or even guilt you into doing what they want. Don’t let them manipulate you – it’s important to stay alert and stay safe.
Hiding something or being deceptive is another red flag. If a person is trying to hide their face or hands, that’s definitely a cause for concern. And if they’re being deceptive about their identity or what they’re doing, that’s another warning sign that something could be very wrong.
If you notice someone exhibiting strange or unusual behavior, it’s always best to trust your gut instinct and stay away from them.
Don’t fall for their fake facade
Serial killers are not always easy to spot, but there are some clues that can help you identify them. One of the most common things about serial killers is that they often have a fake facade. This one is admittedly tough. If everyone could see through a sociopath’s fake facade, then there would be a lot fewer victims. Unfortunately, many sociopaths are very good at pretending to be someone they’re not. These people live a double life. On the outside, they can be charming, funny, and charismatic but deep inside, they’re cold, calculating, and manipulative killers.
Many of these serial killers are also intelligent and know how to play on people’s emotions. Some have even been able to fool entire communities. For example, Ted Bundy, one of the most prolific serial killers in America, was able to gain the trust of many people. He even worked as a volunteer at a suicide hotline and as a Republican Party organizer. And when his name started to surface as a potential suspect, police initially dismissed Bundy because of his wholesome image. But behind that wholesome and charismatic facade was the “Lady Killer” who murdered 30 young women, though the actual count may be more than a hundred.
It’s important to know that not everyone falls into the typical “serial killer” stereotype. In fact, many of them are actually quite charming and charismatic to gain your trust. John Wayne Gacy, for example, was an outgoing known as a beloved clown who often performed at children’s parties. But underneath that facade was a dangerous predator.
Ted Bundy, one of the most famous serial killers in American history, was also known for his good looks and charm. He used these qualities to lure his victims into a false sense of security before brutally murdering them.
Trust your instinct
If you feel like something is not right, it probably isn’t. Never ignore your gut feeling as it could save your life.
Rodney Alcala, a notorious serial killer, was a contestant on The Dating Game TV show. The “Dating Game Killer” appeared in an episode in 1978 while he was in the middle of his killing spree. The bachelorette who chose Alcala likely escaped being a victim of a serial killer after she refused to go through with the date. She said she “started to feel ill” and Alcala “was acting really creepy.” She trusted her instinct and was rewarded with her life.
Alcala was later arrested and convicted for the murder of 12-year-old Robin Samsoe. The victim’s friend identified him after she was shown the episode of the game show. Alcala, who died in 2021 while in prison, is said to have murdered around 130 women.
Be cautious when dealing with strangers
You never know who you’re talking to so it’s important to be cautious when engaging in conversation with someone you don’t know. If someone approaches you for directions, asks for help with something, or offers you a ride, it’s best to decline. Never ever let your guard down when talking to a stranger.
One of the ways Bundy lured his victims was by pretending he needed help. He would put his arm in a cast and ask the potential victim for help in loading groceries. At other times, Bundy would pretend to be a policeman and gain the victim’s trust.
The most basic serial killer survival tip here is to never go off with strangers. Even if they seem harmless, you could be putting yourself in a very dangerous situation. So learn to say no.
Be vigilant when meeting new people
Similar to dealing with strangers, you should also be cautious when meeting new people even if they come highly recommended by a friend or family member. You’re not required to like someone just because they’re a friend of a friend. Remember, many serial killers look and act normal so it’s important not to let your guard down.
The first known serial killer in the Philippines is Juan Severino Mallari who killed 57 people in the 1820s. He supposedly believed that he had to kill people in order for the “curse” on his mother to be lifted. Mallari was a Catholic priest so many of his victims probably easily put their trust in him.
Dennis Rader, aka the BTK Killer, murdered at least 10 people from 1974 to 1991 and wrote letters to taunt the police. Rader installed security alarms for a living, often servicing homeowners who were afraid of the BTK Killer. He also was a census field operations supervisor, a dogcatcher, a Cub Scout leader, and the church council president of the Christ Lutheran Church in Wichita. Rader was also a family man with a wife and two kids. According to his daughter, they were a “normal American family.”
In both cases, you’d normally never suspect that these men were capable of such heinous crimes owing to their positions and seemingly normal lives. This is why it’s important to always be vigilant when meeting new people, no matter how innocuous they may seem.
Avoid being isolated
Some serial killers stalked their victims waiting for the perfect opportunity to pounce on them. To avoid falling victim to a serial killer, it’s important to never be isolated. Try to always travel in groups and avoid going off alone by yourself. It’s important that there’s always someone around in case something happens.
Keep your family and friends updated
If you must go somewhere alone, make sure to let someone know where you’ll be and what time you’ll be back. Provide your family and friends with updates on your whereabouts so they know where you are at all times. If you’re going to be out late, let someone know where you’re going to be and when you’ll be back. In case you don’t come home at the expected time, they can take action immediately.
Keep your phone charged and with you
If you’re out alone, it’s always a good idea to keep your phone with you and fully charged. This way, you can call for help if you need it. And if you’re in a dangerous situation, you can use your phone to call 911.
Be careful going home at night
If you’re out alone at night, make sure to stay in well-lit and populated areas. Avoid shortcuts, dark alleys, and deserted areas where you could easily become a target. Always bring a flashlight so you can light up dark spots and see if someone is lurking there.
Be prepared to run or fight in case someone jumps you. Always keep a pepper spray or stun gun with you for self-defense. You can also use your tactical flashlight to hurt your attacker.
Vary your routine
If you always take the same route home from work or go for a jog at the same time every day, it’s time to switch things up. Varying your routine will make it harder for someone to predict your movements and could save your life.
Don’t panic if you think you’re being followed
Panicking is your worst enemy if you’re in an emergency situation. If you think you’re being followed, try to stay calm and think of a safe place to go. Your first option is to go to a busy, public place. If there are lots of people around, this will make it harder for the person following you to do anything bad.
If you’re still feeling unsafe, make as much noise as possible so that others will hear you and come to help. Shout, scream, and make any noise you can to get attention. If you have a whistle or personal alarm, use them.
Avoid hitchhiking and hitchhikers
Edmund Kemper, aka the “Co-ed Killer,” murdered ten people in the 1970s including his mother, grandparents, and a number of female hitchhikers. Ivan Milat, the “Backpacker Killer,” was responsible for the death of at least seven hitchhikers. He’s known as one of Australia’s most notorious serial killers and was active between 1989 and 1992.
Donald “Pee Wee” Gaskins, whose moniker was the “Hitchhiker’s Killer,” claimed that his murdering spree began in 1969 when he picked up a female hitchhiker. Gaskins raped and tortured the victim before dumping her in a swamp. The serial killer murdered at least thirteen people, mostly teenagers, though he claimed that his kill count was way more than that since he supposedly looked and picked up hitchhikers regularly on the coastal highways of the American South.
Hitchhiking is always a risky proposition, but it’s especially dangerous if you’re picking up a serial killer. At the same time, you may be putting your life at risk if you hitch a ride with a stranger. If you’re stranded and need a ride, call a friend or family member, or take public transportation.
Be alert when using public transportation
If you’re taking public transportation, be aware of who is around you. Avoid sitting in isolated areas where you could be an easy target. If possible, sit near the driver so you can get help if needed. And always keep your valuables close to you so that pickpockets don’t have a chance to steal them.
If you’re being harassed, don’t be afraid to speak up
If someone is making you feel uncomfortable or harassing you, make it known that you’re not going to stand for it. Be assertive and firm in telling the person to stop. If they don’t listen or continue to harass you, don’t be afraid to speak up and attract attention to the situation.
Be extra cautious when traveling
If you’re traveling alone, be extra cautious and use the same safety tips as if you were at home. In addition, try to book a room in a hotel that has good security. Avoid staying in isolated areas or on the ground floor where it would be easy for someone to break in.
How to Protect Yourself From A Serial Killer When You’re Driving
Don’t park in isolated areas
When you’re out and about, try to park in well-lit and busy areas. This will make it harder for someone to approach your car or break into it. If you can, park close to the entrance of the building so you don’t have to walk through a dark parking lot. If you’re in an indoor parking garage, park near the stairwell or elevator so you can make a quick getaway if necessary.
Always lock your car and check the backseat
This one seems like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people leave their vehicles unlocked. Make sure all the doors are locked before you leave your car. And always check the backseat of your car before getting in, just to be sure no one is hiding there.
Get your keys ready
Before starting your walk to your car, have your keys ready in your hand. This will allow you to quickly unlock the door and get inside if you’re being followed. You don’t want to be fumbling around for your keys while someone is coming after you.
Prepare your self-defense tool
Aside from your car keys, you should have your pepper spray or other self-defense tools ready and raring to go. Keep it in an easily accessible place, like your pocket, so you can quickly grab it if you need to.
Always check the premises
Before stepping out into the parking area, take a quick look around to see if anyone is loitering or if there’s a suspicious vehicle parked close to yours. If there is, it’s best to go back inside and ask someone such as the security guard to accompany you to your car.
Offer to drive the person back (only if you know and trust the person) or to watch them from inside your car as they walk back to safety. You don’t want that nice person who helped you to be the next victim of a serial killer, do you?
Keep going until you’re inside your car
Don’t stop until you’re safely inside your car. If you notice something amiss like a bunch of coins or a puddle of oil near your car, don’t stop to pick them up or to investigate. Just keep walking until you’re in your car with the doors locked.
If your car won’t start and you notice a suspicious person loitering nearby, stay in your car and call for help. Don’t try to go outside or confront the person. They may be dangerous. Wait for the police to arrive and escort you to safety.
Check your surroundings before exiting your car
Before getting out of your car, take a moment to check your surroundings. Make sure no one is hanging around. If everything looks clear, then you can exit your car and go about your day.
Have your vehicle checked regularly
Getting stranded because of a flat tire or a dead battery is the last thing you want. This provides serial killers an opportunity to nab you. To avoid this, have your vehicle checked regularly by a professional so that everything is in working order and you can avoid getting stranded in a bad area.
Back in 1988, Ronald Flowers’ car broke down, and couldn’t call anyone to help him out. A stranger came up to him and offered to jumpstart his car but they had to walk and get his car first which was at his grandmother’s home. Flowers agreed and went with the stranger. Once they got to the place, the man offered Flowers coffee. He woke up the next day in a hospital with bruises all over his body and no recollection of what happened. Flowers was fortunate enough to not be among Jeffrey Dahmer’s murder victims.
Safety Tips At Home
Keep your doors and windows locked
This one seems like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people leave their doors and windows unlocked.
Make sure all your doors and windows are locked before going to bed at night or leaving your home unoccupied. Even if you’re at home, lock the door so that intruders and would-be criminals can’t easily enter your home and harm you or take you by force.
Richard Ramirez, the “Night Stalker,” killed over 15 people including a 9-year-old girl. He earned his moniker after a series of home invasions committed at night. He would attack his victims while they slept often killing the husband first before having his way with the wife.
Richard Chase, a schizophrenic serial killer who had an affinity for drinking blood, believed that doors left unlocked meant he was invited to come inside. The “Vampire of Sacramento” broke into a few homes and killed a total of six people, including two children. One of the victims was also three months pregnant. Chase engaged in necrophilia and mutilated the bodies of two of his victims, drinking the blood of at least one.
Chase also attempted to enter a home but walked away because the doors were locked. The simple act of locking the doors saved the occupant’s life.
Don’t let strangers into your home
If someone comes to your door claiming to be a repairman, delivery person, or any other type of service worker, make sure to ask for identification before letting them in. If you’re not expecting anyone, don’t open the door.
Keep your home well-lit
Always keep your lights on when it gets dark. Make sure your home is well-lit both inside and out. Criminals will be less likely to target a home that is well-lit as it makes it more difficult for them to carry out their plans without being seen.
Install a security system
A security system is a great way to deter burglars and keep your home safe. If you have one, make sure it’s turned on when you leave the house. You should also set up motion-sensor lights around your property so that if anyone does try to break in, they will be caught in the act.
Serial killers are notoriously difficult to catch, as they are often very careful in planning their crimes. Getting their faces on camera should help keep them off your property and, hopefully, off the streets. These criminals often target the most vulnerable members of society, so it’s important to be as proactive as possible in protecting yourself and your loved ones, and installing a security system is one way to do that.
Other Tips to Stay Safe from Serial Killers
Study the patterns
Another thing to think about is that each serial killer normally targets a specific type of person. Jack the Ripper, for example, only killed female prostitutes. Dahmer targeted young men of color while the majority of Bundy’s victims were college-age women.
Samuel Little, who claimed to have 93 victims, targeted people he thought were “less dead” or those that would not be missed by society. So if you’ve typically given up on life, you could fall victim to a serial killer. Luckily, Little has been dead since 2020 so unless a copycat killer exists, you’re in the clear.
If there are reports of a serial killer near your area, you should be doubly careful. And if you think you fit the profile of someone the serial killer is looking for, take extra precautions to ensure your safety. By understanding the type of person that is most often targeted, you can help to avoid being the next victim.
Don’t give out personal information
If you’re talking to someone you don’t know and they start asking personal questions, it’s time to be on your guard. Don’t give out your home address, phone number, or any other information that could help them find you.
It’s also a big no-no to give out personal information online. Social media has made it easier than ever for people to connect with each other, but it’s also made it easier for criminals to find victims. If you’ve been targeted by a serial killer or stalker, they can look for you on social media. And if you always post or share updates on your activities and whereabouts, they can use that information to find and track you. So be careful about what you post online and never share your personal information with strangers.
Don’t post your location on social media
You may be tempted to check in or post photos of your current location on social media, but this can be dangerous as it gives potential criminals a way to find and track you. If you must post about your current location, make sure to do so in a private message or with friends only so that strangers can’t see it.
Learn to defend yourself
Wherever you go, there’s always the possibility of encountering a criminal. So it’s important to know how to defend yourself in case of an attack. Taking a self-defense class can give you the skills and confidence you need to fight back and escape if you are ever attacked.
Learn how to use different weapons, too. Pocket knives, tactical pens, batons, and kubotans are great weapons to carry with you for self-defense. Just make sure you know how to use them before you need to use them.
In the absence of a weapon, you should know how to improvise. Use whatever you have on hand, whether it’s your keys, a book, or a phone. And if all else fails, remember that your body is a weapon, too. Use your fists, knees, and elbows to fight back and escape from an attacker.
Aim for the body’s weak points such as the eyes, nose, throat, groin, or knees. A good hit to any of these areas can disable your attacker long enough for you to get away. Once you manage to get away, don’t look back. Run away and get to a safe place. Call the police immediately once you’re sure that it’s safe.
These are just general tips and there is no guaranteed way to avoid becoming a victim of a serial killer. But, if you follow these guidelines, you will be much less likely to end up as one of their victims. Learn more survival and safety tips by checking out Gentleman Pirate Club. And remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
