Staying safe when you go out

When you're out and about, especially for the first time, it’s easy to feel nervous, especially if you’re in a place you don't know well. You can also do lots of things to help yourself feel and be safer.

Before going out...

The best way to avoid problems later is to make sure you're well prepared earlier:

• Decide how you are getting home and make arrangements (e.g. lifts) in advance
• Check out where you are going, print out maps, etc.
• Tell someone else where you are going and when you expect to be back
• Make sure your mobile is charged and has credit
• Take enough cash for the outing and your journey home.

When you're out and about...

When you're out, walk quickly and confidently. Stick to routes you know well, and avoid shortcuts, especially after dark. Keep to busy, open, well-lit areas.

• Walk with friends, or stay in busy places
• Turn your MP3 player down, or leave it at home – you need to be able to hear traffic or anyone approaching
• Keep your bag where you can see it – wear it in front of you, not over your shoulder
• Try not to keep all your valuables in one place – and don't flash them around.

Most of all, look confident: you are less likely to be attacked if you appear relaxed and aware of your surroundings.

When you're having fun...

Good nights out don't end with a fight or something being stolen. Don't be a target for thieves or bullies. Take care of your friends. Learn to avoid trouble.

• Keep an eye on your coat and don't leave your bag unattended.
• Take care of your friends, and make sure they do the same for you.
• Don't let strangers buy you drinks, or leave your drink unattended.
• Don't get into arguments or do other stupid things.
• If you feel sick, or like you've drunk too much, go home.
• If you’re worried at all, call your parents or guardians for help.

Find out more about alcohol and safer drinking.

On your way home...

Don't wait until the end of the night to find out how you're going to get home. Know when your last bus or train leaves, and have a back-up plan ready in case there's a problem with that. Safety tips:

• Try to always travel with a friend or in a group
• Avoid using train stations and bus stops in isolated places if you're on your own
• On buses sit near the driver, on trains sit near other people
• Only use licensed minicabs (you can't hail them in the street, they have to be pre-booked)
• Taxis (black cabs) can be hailed in the street – they have an illuminated taxi sign on the roof

Make sure you know what to do in an emergency.

Find out more…

• www.livelifesafe.org.uk Advice on keeping safe from the Suzy Lamplugh Trust
• www.thamesvalley.police.uk/saferstreets Thames Valley Police advice for keeping safe
• Personal Safety Page in the law section of the Survival Guide