Suffolk Police have issued the
following personal safety tips to
help you act safely and reduce risks:
- Be alert - walk with purpose and
confidence.
- Plan your route there and back. Avoid short cuts through unlit
or deserted areas.
- Whenever possible, do not walk alone.
- Let someone know where you are going and your time of
return.
- Walk facing the traffic so a car cannot pull up behind you
unnoticed.
- If you walk alone regularly or go jogging or cycling, try to
vary your route and time and take the routes that you know
best.
- Be aware of your surroundings, a personal stereo may prevent
you from hearing traffic or somebody approaching behind you.
- Carry a personal attack alarm in your hand or on your belt
(available from any police station).
- If you are confronted, use your alarm and run; or scream and
shout to attract attention.
- Do not hitchhike or accept lifts from strangers.
- When waiting for a train or bus, stand where it is well-lit and
there are other people.
- If you are travelling on an empty bus or it's after dark, sit
on the lower deck near the driver or conductor.
- If booking a taxi, ask for the name of the driver, and when the
taxi arrives, ask for the driver’s name as well as the company that
he or she is working for.
- When arriving home, have your money and house keys ready and
consider asking the driver to wait until you are in the
house.
Always call 999 in the case of an emergency when you
need immediate assistance.
Follow the links below to download the personal safety tips
in the following languages:
Enjoy a safe night out
The
county-wide Nightsafe (new window) group has three key
messages to help you enjoy your night out and to stay
safe:
- Friends stick together.
- Get home safe.
- Don't overdo it.
If you are going out - plan your night in advance, especially
how you will get home. Make sure you stick together with your
friends and to your original plans, and look out for each
other. If you are going to drink, know your limits and
remember alcohol can make you more vulnerable.
If you have to go out alone, make sure you let someone know where
you are going, and what time you will be back. Where possible,
keep to well-lit streets and keep in contact with people - have
your mobile phone handy. If you are worried, call the police
immediately.