Before you go anywhere, ask yourself:

  • Where am I going?
  • How am I going to get there?
  • How am I getting back?
  • Am I prepared in case my plans change?
  • Does someone know where I am?

On foot

  • If you can, always walk with someone else. Always walk in well-lit areas and don't take shortcuts, such as alleyways or wooded areas
  • Always let someone else know where you are going and inform them when you arrive
  • Think about safe places on your route, such as a friend's house, a shop, or public building where you can ask for help
  • If you feel uneasy about someone who is walking ahead or approaching you, cross the road to avoid them
  • Walk in the centre of the pavement towards oncoming traffic
  • Never accept a lift from anyone, unless you have previously agreed it with your parents, carer or guardian
  • Stay alert! Leave your personal stereos off - they stop you being aware of what's going on around you
  • Avoid parked cars with their engines running and people sitting in them – it is extremely rare, but you could be dragged into the car
  • If a car pulls up alongside you, turn around and walk in the other direction - you can turn around much faster than a car
  • Have your keys ready so you can get into your home quickly if you need to
  • If you are worried, frightened or think you may be in danger, call 999

On transport

  • Try not to use an isolated bus stop
  • Choose an area on a bus or tube where there are several other passengers
  • Travel downstairs on buses, particularly if you are alone
  • Take an aisle seat and sit as near to the driver as possible
  • If someone sits by you and makes you feel uneasy, then get up and move
  • If you experience problems on a bus, speak to the driver
  • Be aware that pickpockets and robbers operate on buses, trains and tubes; keep your personal property out of sight
  • If you need to use a taxi, make sure you use a reputable taxi company by referring to the Yellow Pages
  • Use the official 'CABWISE' service
  • Book a taxi in advance before going out and take the number with you in case you need to use the same company for your journey home
  • Make sure the cab drops you outside your front door and watch who's around, especially if you are returning late at night