When crossing a road you can stand near the control box with your hand on the cone and independently know you can cross when it spins, without having to get help from a passer-by, if there is one.

BBC: The secret button at pedestrian crossings

In the world of comedy, if you are absolutely determined to stand on a stage for five minutes with a mike in your hand, someone in London will let you do it, if only once.

NEWYORKER: Dead Man Laughing

Always keep your belongings in hand, and try not to wear flashy clothing or jewellery that might make you stand out as a target.

BBC: Central America��s shift in safety