By Jeff Halstead, Ret. Chief of Police, Fort Worth, TX
There has been an increase in the volume of knife attacks in the United Kingdom in recent years. In early November, 9 people suffered life-threatening injuries over the weekend and put the spotlight back on the UK’s knife-crime problem.
I’ve looked through the worrying statistics and found that government figures show knife offences in England and Wales have risen 87% over the past decade, reaching over 54,000 incidents in 2024, a slight uptick from 2023. Police recorded knife enabled crimes increased 4% year-on-year, and 262 people were killed with a knife or sharp object between April 2023 and March 2024, 57 of them under 25.
I have served more than 3 decades in law enforcement. Although it was in the U.S., our country has also seen violent crime trends that are very concerning for our country. Yes, our violence in this area is directly related to “gun violence”, but there are still lessons I can share with you that can be applied to any violent crime trends and keep you safe.
I’ve shared this same advice with my own family, and I know it doesn’t always sink in. When you work in law enforcement or any job that exposes you to danger, you understand how quickly things can go south. But most people who aren’t exposed to that side of life believe it won’t happen to them, that it’s only something you hear about happening to other people. Trust me, everyone I’ve met dealing with the aftermath once thought the same thing, which is exactly why it’s so important to know what to do.
You cannot legislate evil
In America, a “mass shooting” is commonly an act of violence involving a firearm, where at least 4 people were shot. After any of these mass-shootings, American lawmakers start discussing passing new laws and restricting access to guns. I strongly believe it is impossible to legislate evil and violence when a person is intent on committing those violent acts. It is already one of the most serious crimes in the U.S. when you use a firearm and kill another citizen. Laws against either purchasing or carrying a firearm will not have an impact on criminals, citizens with undiagnosed mental illness, or acts of rage and violence.
The same truth applies in the United Kingdom. Knives are a part of daily life, used in kitchens, workplaces, and carried for legitimate reasons, which makes restricting access nearly impossible. They’re small, easy to conceal, and impossible to remove from society entirely. That’s why it’s so important for you to focus on awareness and personal safety. We can’t rely on legislation alone to prevent violence, but we can learn how to recognize risk, stay alert, and take steps to protect ourselves. This threat may evolve, but it isn’t going away, and preparedness remains your best defense.
1. Stay focused when in public
You can travel to any major city in the world and when in populated areas, like shopping malls, mass transit, or popular tourist sites, you will see the majority of citizens staring at their smartphones, taking pictures, or recording videos. Of course, as a tourist, you will be taking pictures and videos but, if you’re in a group, you should always designate 1 or 2 people to NOT be on any device and pay attention to actions, noises, and behavior of others around you.
Worse still, lone travelers often have noise cancelling headphones on. When you are out in public alone, you should NEVER be on your device for extended periods of time. Your mind becomes oblivious to the actions of others around you, and you literally ignore the sounds and movement of others. This is a dangerous scenario. Beyond violent crime, it also makes you a prime target for robbery.
I talked with many friends and family members, and they say that keeping earbuds or headphones on while commuting is a way for strangers to not start a conversation with them. What is more important to you? Ignoring a stranger or staying safe while traveling?
2. Stay visible and avoid shortcuts
A lot of assaults happen late at night on quiet streets or paths between transport stops. Don’t take shortcuts, even if it saves a few minutes. Stick to main roads and well-lit areas where other people are around. If you need to check your phone for directions, stop somewhere safe first instead of walking while distracted.
3. Distance is your friend
There could be a situation where a violent act is about to occur or, you are literally a few feet away from a violent attack. One thing is an absolute priority: RUN away immediately! Distance is your friend and rarely will an attacker leave a group of potential victims to chase down one person. Wear appropriate footwear when traveling and never try to defend yourself against any of these attackers.
If you are carrying heavy bags, luggage, or items that will restrict your ability to run away, drop them and get moving! You can always replace them at a later date when you are safe…and alive.
UK police say it best, “If it feels wrong, it probably is.” Trust your instincts. If a situation starts to feel tense or uncomfortable, don’t wait to see what happens. Move away. Cross the street. Go somewhere safer.
4. Be mindful of alcohol and group settings
Most violent incidents after dark start with alcohol. When you’re out, plan your way home early and stay with friends you trust. Look out for each other. A few drinks can make people take risks they normally wouldn’t, arguments, showing off, or trying to play the hero. None of that is worth your life.
Alcohol lowers awareness and raises confidence at exactly the wrong time. Keep your focus on getting home safely, that’s what really matters.
5. Know your escape routes
No matter where you are, a train station, a concert, or your local pub, take a few seconds when you arrive to look around and spot the exits. If something happens, you don’t want to waste time figuring out which way to go. The advice from UK police is simple: Run, Hide, Tell. Run first if you can, hide if you can’t, and once you’re safe, call 999.
6. Report suspicious behavior early
If you see someone acting aggressively or carrying a knife, don’t ignore it. Call 999 right away. You’re not wasting police time. Early reports often stop something worse from happening. Staying safe isn’t just about what you do for yourself; it’s about helping keep others safe too. Helping police catch these criminals is exactly how everyone can help to stop this growing trend.
Summary
Because these violent trends seem to be increasing across many cities and countries, this is information you need to remember and share with your family and friends. By making a conscious effort to remember these when commuting or in public, you will greatly reduce your chances of being a victim of a violent attack.
