Staying safe on public transport

• Try to stay away from isolated bus stops, especially after dark.
• On an empty bus, sit near the driver or conductor.
• On a train, sit in a compartment where there are several other people – ideally one that will be near the exit of your destination. Check to see where the emergency chain is.

Staying safe when you’re out and about

• If you often walk home in the dark, get a personal attack alarm from the office.

Carry it in your hand so you can use it immediately to scare off   an attacker.

• Carry your bag close to you with the clasp facing inwards. Carry your house keys in your pocket. If someone grabs your bag, let it go. If you hang on, you could get hurt.
• If you think someone is following you, check by crossing the street – more than once if necessary – to see if the person follows. If you are still worried, get to the nearest place where there are other people – a pub   or anywhere with a lot of lights on – and call the police.
• If you regularly go jogging or cycling, try to vary your route and time. Stick to well-lit roads with pavements. On commons and parklands, keep to main paths and open spaces where you can see and be seen by other   people – avoid wooded areas. If you wear a personal stereo, remember you can’t hear traffic, or somebody   approaching behind you.
• Don’t take short cuts through dark alleys, parks or across waste ground. Walk facing the traffic so a car cannot pull up behind you unnoticed.
• If a car stops and you are threatened, scream and shout, and set off your personal attack alarm if you have one. Get away as quickly as you can. This will gain you vital seconds and make it more difficult for the car   driver to follow. If you can, make a mental note of the number and description of the car. Write down   details as soon as possible afterwards. Take a photo if you have a camera phone.
• Self-defence and safety awareness classes may help you feel more secure.