With the hustle and bustle of a new job or internship, one often thinks about all of the good that comes from traveling to, or maybe even living in, a new city. Being in a new city is scary enough without having to worry about your daily routine being affected by new and intimidating places. To stay safe in a new area, remember these simple tips.

1. Know your surroundings.

Obviously, when you’re in a new place, you’ll be unfamiliar with your surroundings. Ask some of the local residents, do some research online, and look for well-lit, clean areas for your adventures.

Before moving to an area, take a weekend and check it out with a friend or parent. Learn where the locals like to hang out and where all of the safest areas are. It is best to scout your new home before moving there, especially if you are moving alone.

2. Go with your gut.

If you are in a situation and you don’t feel comfortable, get out. We are equipped with intuition for a reason. It is one of the most forceful feelings a person can have. If your gut is telling you a situation is bad, it most likely is. Get to a safe place, head home, or call one of your friends.

3. Map your route.

Avoid walking or driving blindly into an area you don’t know. Before you take off to your destination, map your route. Take an extra 15 minutes of prep time and decide to use the routes you know and trust.

4. Inform others.

If you’re staying at a hotel, before you bop outside for your morning jog or head out for an evening meal, pass a business card to the front desk. Tell them you are going out, the amount of time you will be gone, and who to call if you don’t return. That can give you peace of mind that someone knows your whereabouts and can contact your loved ones in an emergency.

5. Exercise smart, go the right direction.

Getting your exercise in is a must. But, too often runners and bicyclists are unaware of how they should travel. Runners should go against traffic so they can see what is coming towards them and can move over. Bicyclists should go with traffic and yield at all necessary signs as if they were a vehicle.

As an extra safety tip, if you like to listen to music while on the move, leave one earbud out. You’ll be able to hear what is going on around you while also being able to get pumped to the beat.

When you live in a new area or travel for work, be smart. Use caution in new areas and stay alert to what is going on around you. You can still have a daily routine, but it pays to be a little more cautious so you can have a good time and stay safe.