Improve your Personal Safety: Top Tips

Personal security is an important consideration in the current climate. Whether its stepping out at night, commuting from work or meeting someone new individuals are increasingly leaving themselves vulnerable. People often let complete strangers into their lives, through dating apps like Tinder and Grindr, and worryingly dating app crimes are on the increase. It is critical to be security aware and the following precautions can significantly improve your safety.

GENERAL

• Awareness: this is your first line of defence, be aware of yourself and your surroundings. This gives you knowledge and confidence. Intuition is a powerful tool. Trust your gut instinct.
• Escape: always the best option. If you do find yourself in the unlikely situation where you are at the mercy of someone else, run away if you can. Shout, scream and if the criminal is after your purse or phone throw that one way and run in the other direction.
• Personal Alarm: carry a whistle or portable alarm. If your in danger this alert signal is recognised globally.
• Stay connected: always communicate your location to someone but LIMIT the amount of information shared on social media regards travel, work and meeting plans.

OUT AND ABOUT

• Spread your valuables around the body. Do not keep phone, keys and money all in one bag. Keep an emergency £10 note hidden but not in your purse. Hidden money belts and pouches are very useful. Don’t draw attention to yourself by wearing showy clothes or jewellery.
• Phones: walking and texting is when you are most distracted and likely to give potential thieves the ideal opportunity. Phone theft is extremely common. Stop and text with your back against a wall to reduce your risk.
• Always be aware of where your bag or belongings are. Do not hang your bag over the back of a chair or place mobile phones or tablets unattended on tables. Thieves can pass by and remove it in seconds if you are distracted. Use a clip or hook if one is available or place your bag strap through the legs of your chair.
• If a stranger buys you a drink, go to the bar with them and watch that nothing is added to your drink. Never leave your drink unattended. If you feel unwell after a drink, tell a trusted friend and make sure they accompany you home.

TRAVELLING

• Commute: Travel with co-workers where possible even to the car park. Check the back seat of your car before getting in. Lock your car doors when your on the move. If your window is open don’t leave your bag on the front seat. Always leave space between your car and the one in front at red lights in case you need to pull out quickly.
• Avoid isolated bus or train stops, travel in busy carriages or sit near the bus driver during off peak hours. Ensure your phone is working and charged. Walk purposefully and be cautious, have a sense of what is going on in your periphery.
• Pre book a licensed cab to pick you up or use a mini cab office. Never get into an unlicensed mini cab, they are illegal and are often uninsured and potentially dangerous.

MEETING NEW PEOPLE

• Communicate your plans: let friends or family members know where you’re going and when you will be home. Arrange to contact a friend when the date is over.
• Meet in a public place with lots of people around. Watch your alcohol intake; don’t leave your drinks unattended. Keep your wits about you and leave at any time if you feel uncomfortable.
• Use your own transportation to get to and from the date. Keep your purse, wallet and personal items with you, don’t leave them unattended. Ensure your phone is fully charged and carry this with you at all times.