Let’s face it, most of the time we don’t consider that walking down the street on your own poses a problem.
A quick walk with the dog, a stroll to the cash point, coffee shop, hairdressers or to meet a mate. These things are usually committed to without a huge amount of planning or forethought. You don't expect to run into any trouble and certainly do not imagine an attack, or that your personal safety is compromised.
An assault is highly unlikely, despite what you may read or see in the media, and please don’t suddenly go around looking over your shoulder just because you have read this article.
However being prepared for the unexpected means that you will find yourself more alert and aware of your surroundings and then far more unlikely to be in a compromising situation.
Taking unnecessary risks is ‘path of the course’ these days. But with more scams and crime on the rise. It is likely that you will encounter something in your lifetime that leaves a bad taste.
So what can help avoid such situations?
Situational awareness. Know what is going on around you.
When walking in the dark or in quiet areas don’t get so engrossed in your phone or listening to music that you can't hear what is happening around you.
Someone approaching from behind is usually just walking faster than you. Stepping to one side shows them that you are aware that they are there, and if they had thought about trying to accost you, they may think again.
If you have to make or receive a phone call or, like to listen to Podcasts whilst walking, use wireless earphones, and keep your phone hidden. If you are walking along holding it, it is much easier to snatch, and also advertising that you aren't 100% aware of what is going on around you.
Keep the volume low. This way you will still hear that cyclist tearing up the footpath behind you, and allow you to avoid them.
Flats are back. Save those heels for the clubs and keep a pair of folding flats in your bag (butterflytwists.com or Etsy). Not only are they more comfortable, but you can move faster and can hear over the din of the clickety-clack of your Choos on the pavement.
Stride out. If you really have to walk home alone, no matter how tempting that short cut across the park seems, go the long way round. You may have walked home from work that way a hundred times before says the devil on your shoulder. The long way is better lit and may have more passing traffic. There is always safety in numbers of course. If you are walking, walk with a purpose, and keep moving.
Tell someone, where you are, your route and your eta.
In a built up area, or on public transport, keep your bag in front of you. With most handbags and crossbody bags, the zip ends at the front, left hand side. If I could have a word with handbag makers, I would ask them to do the opposite as this leaves access to the bag behind you if right handed. I turn mine around.
Keep an emergency tenner in your purse. Stick it in the zipper you rarely use, a taxi fare is then possible.
Keep your phone close. With the rising number of dognappings, it is essential to be able to quickly use your camera to capture information - if it is safe to do so - and to then call the police.
Got a tail? Is someone following you whilst walking your dog? Make sure that you let the driver know that you have clocked him and make a note of the registration.
Be vigilant. Being married to a security expert, with vast experience in close protection, it comes naturally to him. He’s the one that sits in a pub, restaurant, or crowded place facing the door and knows where the exits are. Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you. Notice what they are wearing and who they are with.
People watching is something I do with great interest. It is this that drives my story telling when I write, and my creativity when I think.
Some would say I am nosy.
I would like to think that I am extremely inquisitive with an interest in human nature.
Noticing what people do, how they react and behave is nothing short of profiling.
Take responsibility and care for yourself at all cost.
Remember, attacks are rare but be aware.
When you are dealing with humans, nothing is predictable. That, you can rely upon.
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