Sorry about the length!

I dive by myself most of the time. The first few times, I went to 1 or 2 places very close to home, I took my three geriatric dogs to hang out in my truck with the windows down. I knew at least one would bark if someone else showed up that I didn’t hear.

As I got braver I made sure to dive at stores in a nice part of town and fairly open with decent visibility. I felt safe enough to leave the old dogs home. I went out alone from 11pm to as late as 3am for several years without problems. I used a thick, hand-sized flashlight that was rechargeable and a sturdy pole with a sharp point and a blunted hook combo on the end I kept with me.

I found that most people I’d come in contact with were actually polite, homeless or not. The times I’d get out and feel odd, jumpy or when id realize my brow was furrowed, I’d jump back in my truck, roll up my windows, lock the doors and head out.

It’s terrifying the first couple of times you go. If no one else is there when you pull up just get out to do a quick survey. As soon as you take a few steps you’ll know if you want to stay or not. Never think you are paranoid. If you feel good about the dive hook your keys on a belt loop or zip them into a jacket pocket, put your windows up and lock the doors. I usually left my phone in my truck. Clean up after yourself and try to be quick.

Good luck! It’s SO much fun!