What to do in the first moments of a robbery, assault, or threat — decisions made in seconds can determine the outcome.
Build Situational Awareness First
When entering any unfamiliar building — a restaurant, shopping mall, hotel lobby — note the exits within the first minute. Choose seating that faces the entrance so you can see who enters. This is not paranoia; it is the same baseline awareness that trained security personnel use.
Trust your instincts. The human threat-detection system is fast and accurate. If something feels wrong — an individual is moving too deliberately, a situation is escalating nearby, someone is paying unusual attention to you — act on that feeling. Leave the area without confronting or drawing attention.
During a Robbery or Direct Threat
Do not resist demands for valuables. No possession is worth physical harm. Comply calmly, make no sudden movements, and maintain eye contact without staring aggressively. Your phone, wallet, and jewellery can be replaced.
As the threat withdraws, memorise identifying details: clothing colour, build, tattoos, direction of travel, and any vehicle. Move to a safe location — a busy shop, hotel lobby, or police post — and call 191 (Police) or 1155 (Tourist Police). The quality of your recollection in the first few minutes is the most useful thing you can give investigators.
Safety Tips
- Avoid displaying expensive jewellery, cameras, or phones visibly in crowded or unfamiliar areas
- Keep your phone charged and 191 (Police) and 1155 (Tourist Police) saved
- In a robbery, do not chase, negotiate, or confront — comply and observe
- Move to a populated, well-lit location immediately after the threat passes
- Report to police and hotel security as soon as you are safe — provide as much detail as possible
Are your staff trained to respond? SGS Crisis Management training prepares hotel and resort teams for exactly these scenarios — available across Phuket. Contact SGS.