How to Walk With Safety in Mind

Don't let fear keep you from walking the streets. Follow these guidelines, based on the recommendations of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the National Crime Prevention Council, and stay on the alert while you're on your feet.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Money Belts
• Money Clips
• Whistles
• Cellular Phones

1. Know the location of the nearest pay phones, police and fire stations, and hospital, and the hours of nearby businesses in the areas where you walk most often.

2. Wear comfortable, nonrestrictive clothing.

3. Always stay alert to your surroundings, and show a calm, confident exterior.

4. Stay on the sidewalk but nearer to the street, keeping away from trees and shrubs where attackers can hide.

5. Try to travel on busy, well-lit streets, especially at night.

6. Avoid traveling alone at night.

7. Keep your purse closed and close to you.

8. Carry your wallet in your front pocket or in the inside pocket of your coat.

9. Carry noisemakers such as whistles to sound during an attack.

10. Have a security guard or a fellow worker walk you to your car if you have to work late.

11. Hold your key in your hand before you reach your car or your home.

Tips & Warnings

• Always trust your instincts.
• Quickly change directions or cross the street and head for a busy, well-lit area if you suspect someone is following you.
• Feel free to yell for help at any time.

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[LPurcell]

on 5/10/2007 Also, if you are in an unfamiliar place, it is important that you at least act like you know where you are going and what you are doing. There have been many cases of people intentionally misleading tourists and foreigners to an area, and that can result in a lot of trouble. If you are in New York City especially, don't go in any unmarked cabs or 'gypsy cabs' as they are called.

on 11/22/2005 If traffic permits, I walk in the street, not on the sidewalk if I feel I am not safe from attack because of shrubs, trees, cars in driveways, etc.

on 11/22/2005 At first glance this seems like a great tip, but I would not do this. The case is always being made about how inattentive drivers are to their surroundings, and criminals are looking for inattentive victims, they might see you as an easy target.

on 11/22/2005 When walking alone in a place I do not feel is safe, I always walk with my cell phone on and talking with someone I trust and who knows where I am.