Keeping yourself safe at night

Now that the clocks have gone back and the dark nights are drawing in, here are some useful tips for keeping yourself and your belongings safe.

Make yourself a hard target
Avoid making yourself appear vulnerable by being distracted by your phone or wearing headphones, especially covering both ears when out and about.
 
Protect your phone from being stolen
Consider the following when protecting your phone from opportunist thieves:

• Ensure you know where your phone is when you are in a busy location. Train stations, shopping centres - these places are popular with pickpockets, especially if your handset is visible in an open bag or hanging out of your back pocket
• Think about when you use your mobile phone – outside train and underground stations are popular places for snatch theft
• Never leave your mobile or personal belongings unattended in a public place 

Don’t be afraid to say no
If a stranger is asking for help with something and you get a bad feeling from them, politely tell them you can’t help right now and keep moving. It’s always better to trust your instincts.
 
Don’t give attackers an easy opportunity
Don’t give attackers an easy opportunity to harm you or to steal your belongings. Avoid walking home alone if you’re drunk, don’t walk alone in secluded places at night. Ensure you are not making  your home easily accessible to burglars by leaving windows open.
 
Be vigilant
Attackers tend to lurk around car parks, between cars, or in stairwells and alleys. Be extra cautious when in these areas and avoid distractions such as having to search for your car keys at the bottom of your bag. Have your keys ready beforehand and don’t sit in your car for too long before leaving.
 
More basic safety tips
It’s important to remember that not every attack is the same and not every attacker has the same motive. All situations are different and so your response should be judged in the moment. Remember that your safety is more important than any of your belongings. Call for help if it’s safe to do so and if you have a personal safety alarm, use it.
 
Remain calm
Fear can cloud your judgement. Try and remain calm to stay focused on the situation.

Assess the situation
Are they carrying a weapon? Is there anyone around that could possibly be alerted, providing it is safe to do so?
 
Your safety is more important than belongings
Belongings can be replaced, you can’t. If an attacker is after money, throw your purse/wallet towards them and run in the opposite direction.

 
Read more about personal safety