recent findings by the U.S. Department of Justice.
The CDC stressed that even though the recent uptick in murders is startling, Americans today still have lower odds of dying from homicide than they did in decades past.
Although the homicide rate during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic is the highest since 1995, it is still significantly lower than rates in the early 1980s, the CDC notes. During those years, U.S. homicides averaged more than 10 per 100,000 people.
Follow-up analyses from the NCHS will offer more insight on the 2020 increases in homicide, including how they’re committed, demographic details and state-level information, the CDC team shares.
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How to protect yourself
Although there is still much to be done to prevent homicides, there are a number of measures you can take to protect yourself:
- Avoid dangerous places and people
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Use a buddy system
- Stick to populated and well-lit areas
- Keep your cell phone easily accessible and charged
- Keep belongings secure. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or handling money
- Avoid distractions
- Communicate plans to friends and family
- Don’t look like a tourist and command a presence
- Stay sober
If you do experience a life-threatening encounter, remember the following:
- Draw attention to yourself
- Use any accessible weapons
- Aim for weak points
- Always call the police, if possible
- Comply with the predator’s demands
- Never go anywhere with a predator or give them access to private time with you or your family
Lastly, remember that the law grants you the right to defend yourself from any damage to you or your property.