Security Blog

When travelling on your own by foot or public transport, especially to a destination you haven't been to before it pays to stay alert to what's going on around you. Always take your mobile phone and tell a family member or friend you'll call them when you reach your destination. Send them texts throughout your journey so they know you are OK. Take the busiest and most well lit route, if travelling by bus always sit close to the driver. If by train, try and sit in a compartment with other people, never on your own.

On your phone make sure you have the number of the local police station and a taxi firm and make a note of any landmarks. As a safeguard it is advisable to carry a self defence aid, such as pepper spray, mace, or a personal alarm.  If carrying mace or pepper spray keep it in your coat pocket or jacket so you can easily reach it if needed. If walking down a quiet street, or your feeling nervous keep your hand in your pocket holding the defence aid.

Attacks don't happen very often but if you are attacked, use the aid, scream for help and hit your attacker in the vulnerable parts of the body then run screaming. If you've sprayed him in the eyes with your aid that will probably be enough. If your attacked from behind, don't pull forward. Lean back into your attacker and with the heel of your foot kick his shin, or knee. Break free then spray him with the aid. Its important to make as much noise as possible, which will help scare him off and alert anyone your in trouble. Run and scream. 

Remember 

• Always be alert and aware of your surroundings and of the people around you. Make eye contact with people when walking. Do not easily be distracted or take your eyes off someone you feel looks suspicious in a possibly dangerous situation. Keep your hand on your defence aid ready. Remember to scream and use your aid if attacked. Then run for help and keep screaming.
  
• Always Carry ID and make sure you have enough cash for your journey.
  
• If leaving work try and walk with a colleague to your car, or to the station.  
  
• When walking or running try and stay away from bushes, wooded areas, and parks. Always be prepared to run and scream. And as a last resort use your defence aid.
  
• If a stranger approaches offering a lift, turn and walk in the opposite direction of the car. Write down the licence plate and description of the car. If possible, take a photo with your mobile phone from a safe distance and report the incident to the police.
  
• Walk confidently, at a steady pace, and have your keys ready in your hand.
  
• Avoid being on a mobile phone, or listening to music wearing headphones, this makes you unaware of your surroundings and an easy target. 
  
• If possible avoid dangerous places at night, visit them during the day.
• Try and avoid isolated bus stops, if not stay alert and keep your hand on your defence aid.
• Stay away from the curb until the bus arrives, and look out for parked cars near you.
• Don't open your purse while getting on a bus, have your fare ready.
• Keep jewellery out of sight.
• During late hours, sit as close to the bus driver as possible.
• Personal property should be marked with your driver’s license number or other number.
• Do not leave cash or valuables at office.
• If you work alone or before/after normal business hours, keep the office door locked.
• If you work late, try to find another worker or a security guard to walk out with you.  

• There are many other precautions you can take.

  Common sense, studying your surroundings and thinking ahead helps.

  If your nervous about making a journey on your own, don't. If you have to use the busiest route.

  Remember always carry a defence aid