Fear of Crime
The chances of a woman being attacked on a street may be compared with the same odds as winning the pools – there’s virtually no chance of it happening to you, but you still fill in the coupon and imagine spending the money. It is therefore wise to “complete the coupon” by taking sensible precautions. Even if you’re a 20 stone fellow, who gets mistaken for Arnold Schwarzenegger, still read on – it applies to you!
The Victim
Recently in America, studies were done on what sort of woman becomes a victim in the street to an act of sexual assault or robbery (basically, theft using violence). People who had an air of self-confidence and walked with purpose were not chosen by the offenders questioned. Likewise, keeping your shoulder bag with the flap facing into you and the strap over your arm and head, rather than just an arm, could reduce the chances of becoming a victim.
Transport
Whereas the chances of an attack are still low in most areas, one incident is one too many, and so if you find yourself trying to get home alone late at night take precautions. It is always sensible to arrange a lift home with a friend or family member.
If you have to call the more traditional type of taxi, try to always use the same firm where possible. Don’t get a private hire taxi (they look like a normal car) unless you’ve booked the car first – apart from anything else only the traditional taxis are insured to ply for hire.
On public transport, try to sit near the driver, avoiding an empty upper deck on buses and vacant compartments on trains.
Walking
If there’s no choice left but to walk alone at night, take the advice your Mum gave you when you were small. Walk in the centre of the pavement, avoiding short cuts through dimly lit deserted areas.
It is wiser to walk facing the oncoming traffic to avoid the surprise of a vehicle approaching from behind. It’s also very difficult for a motorist to pester you as he drives alongside, if he has to do it in reverse!
Be Brave
If you suspect you’re being followed, then cross the street several times if necessary. If it continues, walk to the busiest place you find or knock on somebody's door. If you’re brave enough, turn and face the suspect and shout in your best authoritative voice “Are you following me?!”
