There have been several incidents in recent years where people died because of unsafe crowd conditions and stampedes (人群的蜂拥), the latest one unfolding in Seoul, South Korea, with at least 155 deaths reported. This may leave some people thinking there’s little you can do to survive a stampede. 【小题1】 But crowd-safety experts say there are several strategies that could help you avoid a potentially deadly outcome. Consider these steps below:

The key to staying safe in a crowd begins as soon as you arrive at the location, says Randy Atlas, a safety consultant based in Fort Lauderdale. 【小题2】 It’s a piece of common sense advice that Atlas applies not just at big events, but even when entering almost any room.

If there’s a sudden panic and crowds begin to push in a certain direction, your instinct (本能) may be to fight back and push the opposite way. 【小题3】 If you go against the flow, you increase your chances of getting tripped and knocked down. Another risk, according to experts: If you fight the crowd, you will tire yourself out quickly in a situation where energy is needed.

As you move forward with the crowd, it’s best to move in a diagonal (对角线的) direction so you can potentially angle your way out of the situation. The goal is to get to the edge of the stampede where it’s less likely that you’ll end up stuck at a choke-point, like a doorway.

【小题4】 Look for a solid structure to stand behind such as a pillar or a wall. Other places to duck: behind a car or even a lamp post.

In many stampede events, people die simply because they are crushed to the point they can’t breathe. But a possible way to avoid this is to place your arms in front of you, almost in a boxer-like position. That could give you some very valuable breathing room, literally. 【小题5】

It’s the start of a new academic year and there’s every reason to go back to school—or at least acquire a new skill.

Start with art. If you’ve always fancied yourself as a bit of a Picasso, consider joining an art class. 【小题1】 For example, you’ll meet like-minded people and boost your self-esteem.

Speak a foreign language. Just back from holiday and feeling ashamed of your attempts to speak Spanish to waiters? 【小题2】 Research shows that learning a foreign language can possibly delay dementia (痴呆) and that it still benefits even if you take up a foreign tongue later in life.

【小题3】 Signing up for a healthy cooking course will teach you about nutrition as well as how to rustle up delicious meals. In this way, you may give your family a big surprise with your carefully prepared dishes.

Take photos to feel good. Enrolling on a photography course to take better pictures could improve your mental health. According to researchers, taking a photo a day and posting it online is beneficial.【小题4】 Besides, they may see the world differently and get out of their usual routine.   

Pick up an instrument. Scientists find that playing an instrument engages practically every area of the brain at once As with other workout, disciplined and structured practice in playing instruments strengthens the brain functions. 【小题5】 Many research about the benefits of playing instruments has advanced our understanding of mental function.

Many young people want to be a driver. 【小题1】. Fortunately, there are things that you can do to help your teen become a more confident driver.

Teach your teen the rules of the road

Before your teen gets behind the wheel of a car, he or she should know well the rules of the road.【小题2】. If your teen understands the basic rules and how the car works, then he or she will feel a little better about getting on the road.

【小题3】

Actions speak louder than words. Many people will tell you that they learned how to drive by watching one of their close family members drive. You should show good driving skills with examples.

Practice

Practice makes perfect. The more your teen practices, the more confident he or she will become. Your teen should start off by driving in a place that is free of barriers (障碍).【小题4】. After your teen has gotten comfortable about this, he or she can start practicing on the road.

Drive in different conditions

In order for your teen to become a good driver, he or she has to practice driving in different conditions. 【小题5】.

Get car insurance (保险)

Many teens are worried about how much their parents would have to pay if an accident occurs. You should explain to your teen that car insurance can help one save a lot of money.