This list of personal security tips will help secure you in your daily life – while hopefully inspiring more awareness while you are out-and-about (and everywhere else).
Always be alert and aware of your surroundings and of the people around you.
Make casual eye contact with people when walking.
Do not be easily distracted or take your eyes off of someone you feel looks suspicious in a possibly dangerous situation.
Always carry ID and enough cash with you in case you need it for an emergency or to call a taxi, etc.
Whenever possible, buddy-up to walk out to dark parking lots.
Always inform family or friends if you are traveling, and give them itinerary dates and locations you will visit.
Try to stay away from the brush or trees when walking or running. Always be prepared to run away from an attacker and scream.
Turn and go in the opposite direction of the car if a stranger approaches offering a ride. If possible, write down the license plate and description of the car.
Do not respond to conversation from strangers on the street.
Walk confidently, at a steady pace, and have your keys ready in your hand.
Avoid being on a cell phone with an iPod in your other ear unaware of your surroundings, this makes you an easy target.
Avoid dangerous places at night time, visit them during day time hours.
Stop and look around if you feel unsafe entering an area. You may want to return at a different time. Trust your instincts.
Avoid isolated bus or train stops. Otherwise, continuously look all around you. Be aware.
Don’t stay in the same spot and make yourself an easy target if at a bus or train stop and feel unsafe, .
Don’t open you purse or wallet while boarding the bus; have your fare ready.
Keep flashy jewelry out of sight.
Sit as close to the bus driver as possible while on a bus during off-hours.
Check your purse or wallet if someone is jostling, crowding or pushing you.
Never leave your purse, backpack or briefcase in plain view. Lock it up when you leave your desk or office.
Keep the office door locked if you work alone or before/after normal business hours.
Try to find another worker or a security guard to walk out with you if you work late.
Do not get in the elevator with another person if you do not feel comfortable with that person; take the next one. If you have to get in, stand next to the control panel so that if you are attacked, you can press the alarm and as many of the control buttons as possible.
Be alert for pickpockets on crowded elevators.
Be aware of escape routes for emergencies, and post phone numbers of the Police and Fire Departments in your cell phone so you do not have to fumble pushing many numbers.
Avoid danger spots like quiet or badly-lit alleyways, subways or isolated car parks. Walk down the middle of the pavement if the street is deserted.
Consider heading for a public place; somewhere you know there will be other people, for example a garage or shop.
Avoid passing stationary cars with their engines running and people sitting in them.
Try to keep both hands free and don’t walk with your hands in your pockets.
Walk facing oncoming traffic whenever possible, to avoid curb crawlers.
Keep your mind on your surroundings – remember if you are chatting on your mobile phone or wearing a personal stereo, you will not hear trouble approaching.
Be extra careful when using ATM machines. Make sure nobody is hovering nearby and don’t count your money in the middle of the street.
Trust your instincts and take action if you think you are being followed. As confidently as you can, cross the road, turning to see who is behind you. If you are still being followed, keep moving. Make for a busy area and tell people what is happening.
Beware of someone who warns you of the danger of walking alone and then offers to accompany you. This is a ploy some attackers have been known to use.
Consider carrying a personal safety alarm, which can be used to shock and disorientate an attacker giving you vital seconds to get away.
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