Personal safety
Your safety and the safety of those around you is important and you should be aware of what steps you can take to maintain your personal safety.
The chances of you or your family and friends becoming a victim of a violent crime are low and cases of violent crime are still comparatively rare, accounting for a very small proportion of all recorded crimes. However some people are still frightened that they, or someone close to them will become the victim of a violent attack.
By taking sensible precautions, in the home and when you're out and about, you can cut the risk of attack - most people already take these precautions everyday, often without realising it.
At home
- Check whether you home is fully secure by following some simple crime prevention advice.
- Always secure outside doors, even when you're in.
- If you have a spy hole or security chain fitted to your front or back door make sure you use them when answering to strangers.
- If you suspect previous occupants have working keys to your property, change the locks to give extra piece of mind.
- When answering the phone, simply say "hello". Don't give your name or number. If the caller claims to have the wrong number ask them to repeat the number required. Never give any information about yourself to a stranger and never say you are alone.
- If you are woken by the sound of an intruder, you will have to decide how best to handle the situation. You can try to avoid attracting attention by lying quietly, waiting for the intruder to leave.Or by switching on lights and making lots of noise you may feel more confident. If you're on your own, call out loudly to an imaginary companion - most burglars will flee empty-handed, rather than risk confrontation. Telephone the police as soon as it is safe to do so.
Out and about
- If you're walking alone, particularly at night, you will be safest in bright, well-lit and busy areas. If you often walk home in the dark, get a personal attack alarm - they are widely available and inexpensive.
- When carrying a bag, keep it close to you with the clasp facing inwards. You may consider spreading valuables around your person - for example your house keys in your trouser pocket, mobile phone in your bag, and money in your jacket.
- If someone attempts to grab your bag or anything else, it may be best to let them take it rather than risk confrontation or injury.
- If you find yourself in a situation where you feel threatened, shouting "Fire" rather than "Help" can get more results.
- Defending yourself if you are attacked carries its own risks - be aware that your attacker may be stronger that you are, or if you are using something in self-defence, they could use that against you. It is often better just to shout loudly and run away.
- When you're out and about try not to be too conspicuous about the valuables you are carrying. Chatting on a mobile 'phone, carrying a laptop or showing off expensive jewellery demonstrates to thieves that you may be worth robbing.
- If you regularly go jogging or cycling, consider varying your route and the times when you go out, particularly if you go alone. Try to avoid wooded areas and stick to well-lit roads, or main paths and open spaces. To ensure you stay fully alert to your surroundings, you should not listen to a personal stereo through headphones.
For more detailed information about keeping safe and advice on what personal security devices are available, contact your local crime prevention officer through your local police station on Leicester (0116) 222 2222.
