Staying safe when you’re out and about

• Carry your bag close to you with the clasp facing inwards. Carry your house keys in your pocket. If someone grabs your bag, let it go. If you hang on, you could get hurt. Remember your safety is more important than your property.
• If you often walk home in the dark, get a personal attack alarm from a DIY store or ask your local crime prevention officer where you can buy one. Carry it in your hand so you can use it immediately to scare off an attacker.
• Don’t take short-cuts through dark alleys, parks or across waste ground. Walk facing the traffic so a car cannot pull up behind you unnoticed.
• If you think someone is following you, check by crossing the street. If you are still worried, get to the nearest place where there are other people – and call the police.
• If you regularly go jogging or cycling, try to vary your route and time. Stick to well-lit roads with pavements.  If you wear a personal stereo, remember you can’t hear traffic, or somebody approaching behind you.
• If a car stops and you are threatened, scream and shout, and set off your personal attack alarm if you have one. Get away as quickly as you can. If you can, make a mental note of the number and description of the car.
• Don’t hitch-hike or take lifts from strangers.
• Self-defence and safety awareness classes may help you feel more secure. Ask your local police or your work if they have classes.

Staying safe in taxis and private hire vehicles

• If you are going to be out late or don't want to travel on public transport on your own, try to arrange a lift home with someone you know or make your journey by taxi or private hire vehicle.
• You should always ensure that you travel in a licensed taxi by checking the vehicle's signage or plate and the driver's badge. You should never agree to travel in an unlicensed vehicle with an unlicensed driver.
• When you get to your destination, ask the driver to wait until you are inside.
• If travelling alone, always sit behind the driver in the back seat.
• If you feel uneasy, ask to be let out in a well-lit area where there are plenty of people.
• If in any doubt, make an excuse and don't get in the vehicle.

Staying safe on public transport

• Try to stay away from isolated bus stops, especially after dark.
• On an empty bus, sit near the driver or conductor.
• On a train, sit in a compartment where there are several other people – ideally one which will be near the exit of your destination. Check to see where the emergency chain is.

For more information on staying safe visit:

www.personalsafetyadvice.co.uk
www.suzylamplugh.org
http://www.crimereduction.homeoffice.gov.uk/personalsafety.htm