Crimestoppers has some useful tips to keep safe while you are out shopping.
Away from home
STAYING INDEPENDENT
Keeping adults safe
"I’d like to know how I can stay safe."
Staying safe while you are out
Most of the time people are safe and don’t have any problems while they are outside of their home, but it is still important to be prepared and make sure you know what to do if something happens. We have some top tips that will help.
Before you leave
Here are some tips to help you prepare for going out:
Plan your journey
Plan your route especially if you are going somewhere new.
Try to keep to main paths and roads whenever possible. If you use a short cut, you may get lost and not be able to find your way back to the main path.
At night, keep to well lit areas. Avoid places like alleys, subways and parks, where possible, to reduce your risk of being a victim of crime.
Use public transport or a taxi if you are not sure where you are going - especially when it's dark.
Make sure you have a list of taxi numbers, or a booking app on your phone, in case you get lost or need help getting home.
What to take with you
Your keys
Your mobile phone - make sure it has credit and is charged up
Your debit or credit card, or money - only take out what you will need
A personal alarm - if you have one
In case of emergency (ICE) information. This tells people who to contact in an emergency and provides information about your health. It could be written on a piece of card and tucked into your bag or wallet.
Tell someone
Tell a family member or friend where you are going and what time you expect to be back.
If you are visiting someone, tell them what time you plan to arrive.
Safety tips while you are out
Here’s our tips on how to protect your personal safety while you are away from home:
Be aware of your surroundings
Be mindful of where you are - avoid using headphones or looking at your phone as this may distract from the environment you are in.
Trust your feelings... if you think an area is unsafe then avoid going into that environment.
If you think you are being followed, attempt to cross the road, go into a shop or head for a busy street. If you feel unsafe, make a noise or tell someone.
Keep your valuables safe
Keep valuables like jewellery, phones, music players and keys out of sight.
Fasten your bag closed and at the front of your body where you can see it.
Make sure you keep your coat and bag in sight - never hang them on the back of a coat or chair.
Never write down passwords or PIN numbers and take them out with you.
Only take the amount of cash you think you’ll need - avoid having large amounts of cash out with you.