Young people

Personal Safety: Some streetwise tips

In order to keep safe when out and about, it is important to remember some basic guidelines. The Suzy Lamplugh Trust is a national charity for personal safety. The following tips are taken from their 'Think Safety, Think Personal, Think You' leaflet.

Stay in Control

Being safe is about being in control. This means thinking about what you are doing and trusting your instincts.

• Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
• If you are going to drink, know your limit. Alcohol and drugs stop you being in control.
• Trust your instincts - they are there to warn you of danger.
• Write down the telephone numbers of a trusted taxi company and an emergency contact.
• Keep these in your pocket with your keys and some money for the phone and the journey home.

Travelling on Foot

If you're walking, especially at night, be safe:

• Avoid walking alone. Try to stay with a friend or a group of friends.
• Keep to well-lit routes and avoid dark areas.
• Keep to busy roads wherever possible.
• Appear confident and pay attention to what is going on around you: Avoid walking around with your headphones in your ears or with your hands in your pockets.
• Never accept a lift from a stranger, or someone you do not know very well.
• Avoid passing stationary cars with their engines running and people sitting in them.
  

Buses and Trains

Public transport is usually very safe, but there are things you should always remember:

• Always wait at a well-lit bus stop or train station.
• If you are travelling alone, arrange to meet someone at the bus stop or train station.
• Sit near the driver or guard, or in a busy carriage.
• Notice where the emergency alarms are located – there are alarms on every bus, in every train carriage and on every platform. Try to make sure there is one near you.
• If you feel uncomfortable, do not be too embarrassed to get up and move away. It is not silly to do something that makes you feel safer.
• Carry extra money in case you get stranded and need to take another bus or train, or make a telephone call.

Taxis

Always use a registered Taxi, carry the number of a trusted company.

Always book in advance rather than hail a taxi from the street.

Confirm the driver's details when they arrive- is it the taxi you ordered?

Sit in the back of the taxi if you are on your own.

Groups and Aggression

People always feel more confident as part of a group. This can help you feel and be safe. It can also lead to aggression or conflict if you are not in control.

• Do not let your friends pressure you into stupid or offensive behaviour.
• If you see a group that might cause trouble, avoid confrontation.
• If provoked, never respond aggressively.
• Move away if necessary, to a more public place.

Late with Friends

If you feel your safety is being threatened, there are simple steps you can take:

• Move away from the situation, to a public place as soon as possible.
• Make as much noise as you can. Your voice can be your best defence.
• Try not to panic. Remember, if you stay in control, you are more likely to stay safe.
• Do not try to fight or be a hero. Hand over your wallet or bag if asked. Call 999 (it is free) and ask for the Police. Give them the information they ask for and stay on the line.
• Phone your emergency contact to let them know you are OK.

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For more information visit The Suzy Lamplugh Trust's website at:

www.suzylamplugh.org