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Homepage > Relationships > Personal Safety

Street sense

  • Send the right message. When you walk, project confidence and calm; appear to have a destination.
  • Know the local neighbourhood - the locations of police and fire stations, public telephones and hospitals, and shops that are open late.
  • Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, avoid that person or leave.
  • Don’t share or exchange drinks and never accept drinks from people you don’t know. Never leave your drink unattended; even soft drinks can be spiked.

Walking 

  • Stick to well-travelled streets. Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, car parks or alleys.
  • Don't flash the cash. Money is a tempting target, as is jewellery, clothing and mobile phones.
  • Hold it close. Carry a bag close to your body, not by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front jeans pocket, not a back or side pocket.
  • Try to use cash machines or banks in the daytime. Have your card ready, and don't approach the machine if you're uneasy about people nearby.
  • Be fit to fly. Don't wear shoes and clothing that restrict your movements.
  • Don't fumble around. Have your car or house key in your hand before you reach the door.
  • Surprise them. If you think someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street.
  • Walk toward an open store, restaurant, or lit house. If you're scared, call out loudly.
  • Leave in pairs. If you work late, make sure others are in the building and ask someone - a colleague or security guard - to walk you to your car, bus or train. Ring someone to tell them what time you'll be home.

Driving 

  • Don't get stuck. Keep your car in good running order and make sure there's always enough fuel. Keep windows up and doors locked.
  • Even if you're coming straight back, roll up the windows and lock the doors. Check inside and out before getting in.
  • Be smart! Avoid parking in isolated areas. Stay aware in car parks and if you park in underground garages.
  • Calmly lead them to the police. If you think someone is following you, don't head home. Drive to the nearest police or fire station, petrol station, or other open business to get help.
  • Don't pick up hitchhikers and don't hitchhike.

Train and bus

  • Use well-lit, busy stops.
  • Don't sleep or daydream.
  • Assert yourself. If someone harasses you, say loudly "Leave me alone!" If that doesn't work hit the emergency stop or approach the driver on a bus.
  • Watch who gets off when you do. If you feel uneasy, walk directly to where there are other people. 

If someone tries to rob you

  • Don't resist. Give up property and save your life.
  • Report the crime.
  • Memorise traits and characteristics about your attacker. This could help police find the person later on.

Outdoor activity and exercise

Staying fit is important, and there's no better place to exercise than outside. Whether you run, walk, bike, hike, or stroll, here are some safety tips that will help keep you in the prime of health.

Before you go:

  • Tell somebody. Let people know where you are going and when you will return.
  • "Which way did they go?" Give friends and family details on where you plan to exercise.
  • Know the terrain. Create a mental map of where telephones are located along your route.
  • Be seen. Wear reflective material.
  • Carry ID. If you don't have a place to carry your ID, write your name, phone number, and blood type on the inside of exercise clothing. Add an ICE (In Case of Emergency) number to your contacts on your phone.
  • Only go out with the money/belongings that you need for that day

Out and about

  • Run together. Run or walk with a partner or with a dog.
  • Don't wear headphones. Listen to your surroundings for approaching cars or potential attackers.
  • Avoid unpopulated areas, deserted streets, and unfrequented paths.
  • Avoid poorly lit areas at night.
  • Stay out of the shadows. Dawn and dusk offer darkness for muggers.
  • Run clear of parked cars or bushes.
  • Watch the road. Wet or icy spots are harder to see in the dark.
  • Run against traffic. This is the best way to observe oncoming vehicles.
  • "Sticks and stones…" Ignore verbal harassment.
  • Carry a lifeline. A mobile phone is your best friend in an emergency.
  • Be observant and don't avert your eyes, but keep your distance and keep moving.
  • Answer from a distance. Be careful if anyone in a car asks you for directions. If you feel safe enough to answer, keep more than a full arm's length away from the car.
  • Call the police if something happens to you or someone else, or you notice anything out of the ordinary. Your local authority is also a great resource for finding out about criminal activity in the area where you plan to run.
  • Runners and walkers, stay alert! Sometimes you can get so focused you lose track of what's going on around you. This can make you more vulnerable to attack.

When you're away from home   

  • Know your route well. Get a map and study it.
  • "Where are you staying?" Remember the street address of the hotel and carry your hotel's card along with personal identification.
  • Let them help. Leave your room key with the front desk so they’ll know you're out.
Mouse Recommends

Essex Police
Essex Police offers some simple steps on how to be street safe.

Home Office
Provides further information about staying safe at home, in public transport, out and about and when driving.

Suzy Lamplung Trust
Free guidance sheets providing you with useful tips and information to help improve your personal safety.


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