- Avoid walking alone at night. Ponyboy was walking home from the movies alone when he was jumped. If he had been with a group of friends, he would have been less likely to be targeted.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Ponyboy was so engrossed in his thoughts about Johnny and Dally that he didn't notice the Socs approaching him. If he had been more aware of his surroundings, he might have been able to avoid the confrontation.
- Don't engage with Socs. Ponyboy tries to reason with the Socs, but this only makes them angrier. If he had simply ignored them or walked away, he might have avoided the fight.
- Carry a weapon. Ponyboy doesn't carry a weapon, which puts him at a disadvantage against the Socs. If he had been carrying a weapon, he might have been able to defend himself more effectively.
- Call for help. Ponyboy doesn't call for help when he is being jumped. If he had, someone might have been able to come to his rescue.