The festive season is nearly here and many of us will be planning nights out with friends and family. When out and about it’s important to protect yourself and your belongings to avoid your evening out becoming one you want to forget.
Things you can do to protect your belongings:
keep valuables out of sight including mobile phones, tablets and laptops
keep handbags closed. Wear over the shoulder bags, having clasps facing inwards works best
cover up jewellery with a scarf or clothing
be aware of your surroundings if you feel unsafe change your direction
use well lit, busy streets and a route you are familiar with
Things you can do to protect yourself:
if you regularly walk home in the dark, get a personal attack alarm – they are widely available and inexpensive.
defending yourself if you are attacked carries its own risks – be aware that your attacker may be stronger than you are, or if you are using something in self-defence, they could use that against you. It is often better just to shout loudly and run away
To ensure you stay fully alert to your surroundings, you should not listen to a personal stereo through headphones It is important to stay safe when you are travelling. If travelling on public transport, consider the following;
You are safest where there are other people, and where it is well lit. If you are at a bus station or railway station, try to wait in a busy area.
If you are on an empty train, sit near the conductor, or if you are on a bus sit close to the driver.
If someone makes you feel threatened or uncomfortable, move to another seat or carriage.
Plan your route – know where you are going so you don’t have to ask for directions and accidentally end up lost.
If you are going out at night, plan in advance how you are going to get home – don’t leave it to chance. Try to travel home with friends, arrange a lift with someone you know or book a taxi in advance.
If you are going to use a taxi, book it in advance and check that the taxi that arrives is the one you ordered.
Genuine taxis are licensed by the local authority and should have a plate showing their license number. Never get into a car unless you are sure that it is a real taxi.
Always sit behind the taxi 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.
Your safety and that of those around you is paramount and it is important to be aware of the steps you can take to maintain your personal safety.