Be prepared to physically and psychologically keep yourself safe. A good way to get ready is to think ahead. Here is a list of tips to help you do that:
-Think through how you normally react to crisis situations. Do you flee, freeze, or fight back?
-Think of a few past times to see if there is a pattern. You can modify how you react by imagining a different reaction if needed.
-Talk to friends about ways to handle incidents and think through different actions.
There is no right or wrong way to react. Every incident is different. The best action depends on a variety of factors such as the locale, the assailant, presence of weapons, your personal responses, etc.
When Walking
Plan and use the safest and quickest route. Walk well-lighted streets at night. Stay alert to your surroundings; appear confident and purposeful. Be familiar with businesses that are open late. If you feel scared, go straight to a location where there are other people. Walk with a companion if possible, espessialy at night. Carry your keys and cash in a pocket, not in a handbag or wallet.
If you are being followed by someone in an auto: Turn around and go quickly in the opposite direction. Try to obtain the license plate number and a good look at the car and call the police. If you are being followed by someone on foot: Turn around to let the person know you see them. Immediately cross the street and walk or run toward a location where there is likely to be other people. Call 911 or get someone else to call for you.
In cases involving verbal abuse: Ignore it and walk away. If you are by yourself at a bus stop, proceed to the next stop if there are other people there.
When Driving
Drive with car doors locked and windows closed. Keep your billfold, handbag, and valuables out of view while driving. Do not leave them next to you on the seat. If you see another driver in trouble, don't. Call the police for assistance. Park in well-lighted lots. Look around before you get out of your car. Put valuables and packages in the trunk or out of sight before you arrive at your destination. Always lock the doors, no matter how quickly you plan on returning. When returning to your car, have the door key in hand. Look inside before you unlock the door and get in. If you are being followed while driving, drive to the closest police or fire station and beep your horn.
When You're Home
If there is someone strange at your door, don't indicate that you are home alone. Do not open the door to anyone you do not know without knowing their identity. Identification cards can be pushed under the door. If someone wants to use your telephone, offer to make the call yourself while the person waits outside. Never buzz a stranger through an apartment security entrance. Do not give any information to "wrong number" callers. Ask instead,Ask, What number are you calling? Don't tell an unknown caller that you are home alone. Verify the identity and intent of any person calling for information about you by calling the person back. Hang up immediately if you get threatening or harassing calls. Don't say anything. If the calls continue, keep a record of the date, time, and content of all calls. Then notify the police and the phone company.
