Daily Personal Safety Measures

Have you ever felt frightened or intimidated when out walking alone? Have you ever wondered what you should do if approached by an attacker? Have you ever worried about becoming yet another home invasion statistic?

The sad reality is that we live in an increasingly violent society in which the fear of crime is ever-present. Personal safety has become an issue of importance for everyone, but especially for women.

Awareness at all times
Your First Line of Defence. Most people think of kicks to the groin and blocking punches when they hear the term "self-defence." However, true self-defence begins long before any actual physical contact. The first, and probably most important, component in self-defence is awareness: awareness of yourself, your surroundings, and your potential attacker's likely strategies.

The criminal's primary strategy is to use the advantage of surprise. Studies have shown that criminals are adept at choosing targets who appear to be unaware of what is going on around them. By being aware of your surroundings and by projecting a "force presence," many altercations which are commonplace on the street can be avoided.

Trust Your 6th Sense
"Sixth sense." "Gut instinct." Whatever you call it, your intuition is a powerful subconscious insight into situations and people. All of us, especially women, have this gift, but very few of us pay attention to it. Learn to trust this power and use it to your full advantage. Avoid a person or a situation which does not "feel" safe--you're probably right.

Out partying
Getting drunk or taking drugs can dull your senses, which can be extremely dangerous to your personal safety.

Make sure you plan in advance how you are going to get home. The ideal plan is to book your cab in advance or, if you have the number of a licensed cab company with you, call from the party before leaving the venue. Alternatively ask your host or staff at the club or bar to recommend one.

Beware of spiked drinks.

Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.

Taxis
Do not hail a minicab from the street or accept a lift from a minicab touting for trade: the driver could be anyone. Book a cab over the phone and when the cab arrives ask the driver his name and company. Ask what name he is expecting to collect.

Always try to share a cab with a friend.

If necessary walk to the nearest minicab office, keeping to well-lit streets and walking against the traffic and in sight of other people whenever possible.

Always sit in the back of a cab and if you get chatting to the driver do not give away personal details. If you feel uneasy with the driver, ask him to stop at a busy familiar place and get out.

Public transport
If using public transport, have your ticket, pass or change ready in your hand so that your wallet is out of sight.

Always wait for the bus or train in a well-lit place near other people if possible and try to arrange for someone to meet you at the bus stop or station.

If a bus is empty or it is after dark, stay on the lower deck as near as possible to the driver.
If you feel threatened make as much noise as possible to attract the attention of the driver or guard.

On foot

• Avoid danger spots like quiet or badly lit alleyways, subways or isolated car parks. Walk down the middle of the pavement if the street is deserted.
• Whenever possible, walk with a friend or stay near a group of people.
• Avoid passing stationary cars with their engines running and people sitting in them.
• Always take the route you know best and stick to well lit, busy streets.
• Look confident. Bullies tend to choose victims who look like an easy target.
• Keep your mind on your surroundings: when wearing a walkman you will not hear trouble approaching.
• Be careful when using a cash point machine. Do not count your money in the middle of the street.
• If you think you are being followed, trust your instincts and take action. As confidently as you can, cross the road turning as you do to see who is behind you. If you are still being followed, cross again. Keep moving. Make for a busy area and report to anyone who may be able to help you.
• If a vehicle pulls up suddenly alongside you, turn and walk in the other direction: you can turn much faster than a car.
• Never accept a lift with a stranger or someone you don't know very well even if you are wet, tired or very late.
• Place valuables such as wallets in an inside pocket or use a body belt. If you are carrying things, use a small bag slung across your body under a jacket or coat. Ensure it sits close to your body.
• Avoid confrontation. Do not meet aggression with aggression, a this is likely to escalate the situation. Talk your way out of problems, stay calm, speak gently, slowly and clearly. Breathe out slowly to help you relax.
• If you are trapped or in danger, yell or scream. Your voice is your best defence. Shout, 'Phone the police' or other specific instructions which people can understand easily.

Always carry in your pocket

• A mobile, a phonecard or some spare change to make a phone call.
• A couple of numbers for reputable cab firms in your area/ area you go out.
  Money, keys and travel cards.
• If possible carry a personal alarm and know how to use it to shock and disorientate an assailant so that you can get away.