Travelling Alone

Although this article has been written with women in mind much of the advice applies to male readers.

We all have a right to feel safe and go about our business without fear of assault and by sticking to a few sensible rules there is no need to give up doing the things we enjoy.

Many people worry unnecessarily and there is danger of potential risks being blown out of all proportion. The percentage of people who become victims of crime is actually very small. However, that's not to say we should be complacent about personal safety, as its better to be ready for trouble rather than be caught off guard.

Many of the following pointers are just as relevant during the lighter months but will hopefully give readers more confidence in their ability to keep themselves safe on dark winter evenings.

WALKING

Walk confidently with your head held high. Be aware of your surroundings, avoiding potential danger spots such as poorly lit subways, car parks, alleyways or waste ground, and always walk facing oncoming traffic. Wear clothes and shoes that are easy to move in. NEVER hitch hike.

Get a personal attack alarm. Electronic personal attack alarms are available for £5 and gas hand-held personal attack alarms at £3 are available from the Sutton Community Safety Unit . Make sure you have it within easy reach in case you need it quickly.

If you believe you are being followed, then cross the road to see if the person follows you. If they are, go to the nearest place occupied by people or call the police from a mobile phone.

Try not to wear expensive jewellery when out on your own.

JOGGING

A number of people have taken up jogging in recent years and many choose early morning or late evening to run around the streets or parks. You should stick to well-lit roads and in parks keep to the main path, avoiding wooded areas. Do not go down secluded lanes and try and vary your route each time you go jogging.

SHOPPING

Pickpockets can have a field day if you let them. As you stagger along laden down with parcels and carrier bags remain vigilant and don't give them the opportunity to rob you. Ideally use a bum bag or money belt for your cash and credit cards, leaving at least one of your hands free, and keep your cheque book and household keys separate in your pockets. If carrying a handbag hold it close to you with the clasp facing inwards, or the zip to the front, and stow your purse or money safely away before you leave the shop. If you have a mobile phone keep it out of sight.

If someone does try and grab your handbag or wallet let it go or you may get hurt in the process of trying to stop the thief. A handbag can be replaced but a serious injury could take longer to heal.

ON THE BUS

Try to wait at a well-lit bus stop, avoiding isolated spots if possible. If the bus is empty, stay on the lower deck near the driver.

ON THE TRAIN

Avoid sitting in an empty carriage and opt to sit near other women where possible. If people get out leaving you alone or feeling uneasy about a fellow passenger then change carriages.

IN YOUR CAR

Keep your door locked and windows closed as much as possible, especially in slow moving traffic and built up areas. Keep valuables out of sight and reach and NEVER pick up hitch-hikers. Park in a well-lit area and in multi-storey car parks choose a space away from pillars and close as possible to the ground floor exit. Have your keys ready when you return, and check your back seat for intruders before getting back in.

USING TAXIS

Black taxis are the only ones allowed to pick-up passengers off the street. If ordering a mini cab in public avoid your name and address being overheard. Ask the driver to give your name when you are collected - do not offer it. Ask for the driver's name, call sign and make of vehicle when you book. Always sit in the back seat of the vehicle, NEVER the front, and avoid getting into conversation about your personal life. When you arrive home ask the driver to wait outside until you are inside. The drivers for the advertiser in this handbook all carry ID cards.

AT HOME

Take note of the advice in this handbook on how to deal with callers at the door. Make sure, also that you have adequate security on your doors and windows.

Above all if anything does happen to you DON'T feel embarrassed about making a fuss. You have a right NOT to be molested or threatened. Shout, scream, use a personal alarm, turn on hazard lights and lean on your car horn if necessary to attract attention. It's better to be safe than sorry. Many people are now taking up basic self-defence courses and in some areas these are available free to women.