Here are some tips to follow if you are out and about.
- Stay alert – awareness is your best defence.
- Leave venues with friends wherever possible.
- Try to stay in well-lit areas.
- Be confident – even if you don’t feel it.
- Travel as if you know where you are going, taking the most direct route.
- Trust your instincts – if you think something is wrong then act on it.
- Have your keys available when you reach your home or car.
- Keep money for taxis – the expense is worth it.
- Carry a personal alarm and use it when necessary.
If you are a victim:
- Get help immediately. In an emergency dial 999 or 112.
- Make as much noise as you can to alert people.
- As soon as you can, go somewhere you know is safe.
- If you have been attacked, don’t shower or change your clothes as it may destroy evidence.
- You can report to the police using the online reporting facility on this website. (You can report anonymously, although we’d prefer to be able to speak to you)
- If you want to pass information about offenders, you can contact Crimestoppers or call 0800 555111.
If you are a witness:
- Call 999 or 112. Let the police know what you’ve seen – don’t assume others will come forward.
- Stay alert and safe. Don’t physically intervene – you could get hurt yourself.
- If it is safe to do so, take a photograph or video on your mobile phone.
- Record details of times, number plates, descriptions and so on.
- You can report to the police using the online reporting facility on this website, or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Internet safety tips:
- Use common sense – it is easy to get swept up into a fantasy world, but reality requires caution.
- Do not give out personal details, photographs, or any information that could identify you, your family, or where you live.
- Do not take other people at face value – they may not be what they seem.
- Never arrange to meet someone you’ve only ever met online without telling a friend and giving them details of the person and where.
- Do not open an attachment or download a file unless you know and trust the sender.
- Never respond directly to anything you find disturbing online – log off, and report it.