Personal Safety

Basic Street Sense

Wherever you are - on the street, in an office building or shopping mall, driving, waiting for a bus or subway - stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings. Send the message that you're calm, confident, and know where you're going. Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, avoid the person or leave. Know the neighborhoods where you live and work. Check out the locations of police and fire stations, public telephones, hospitals, or stores that are open late. Look confident. Walk with your head up, as if you know where you are going. Keep your hands free - don't walk about with them in your pockets. Keep to well-used roads. Don't use alleyways or short cuts. Think ahead and plan your journey, avoiding deserted areas In the dark, always stick to well-lit areas. If you think you are being followed, cross the road. If you start to be frightened, try not to panic. Always try to think around situations.

Public Transport

• Use well-lighted, busy stops.
• If someone harasses you, don't be embarrassed. Look for help around you.
• Watch who gets off with you. If you feel uneasy, walk directly to a place where there are other people.

Travel Tips

• It is always worth letting someone know where you are going, the route you intend to take and when you expect to return. Plan your journeys - work out how to get there and back.
• Put aside enough money for the return fare.
• If you lose your fare money or ticket, speak to the driver/guard/ticket officer and explain. Carry some identification on you to prove that you are genuine.
• Never be tempted to walk home alone, especially if it's dark or you are unsure of the area.

If Someone Tries To Rob You

• Report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions can help prevent others from becoming victims.