REMEMBER
* If you do have to go out, try to be accompanied. If this is not possible, choose a well lit, MAIN ROUTE to your destination. DO NOT use short cuts, alleyways or dimly lit areas.
* If you are out walking alone, at night, ensure that someone knows your destination and when to expect you. Do not carry more cash than you need. Keep any cash that you are carrying in pockets, rather than handbags. If you are the victim of a bag snatch - LET GO OF THE BAG! DO NOT TRY TO HOLD ON TO IT!
* Never let your handbag out of your sight. On public transport, keep hold of it, with the clasp or zip shut. With a shoulder bag keep the bag in front of you, never let it hang behing your back.
* Try not to be conspicuous with any valuables you are carrying, e.g. when paying for drinks in a pub, never peel off a note from wad, or flash a wallet containing money and credit cards, or show off a new item of jewellery to a friend. Mobile phones are particularly attractive items to a mugger. Try to use them as inconspicuously as possible. All are indicators to a thief that you are worth robbing.
* If you use a wheelchair, keep your belongings beside you rather than in a pocket at the back of the chair.
* Consider carrying one of the many Personal Attack Alarms that are on the market. These devices emit a loud, high pitched scream, BUT they are only of any use if there are people in the vicinity to hear it. If you decide to carry such a device, do not carry it in a handbag where you have to fumble for it, but keep it in a pocket or on a cord around your neck. If you possess a mobile telephone, programme it to the 3x9's mode, then all you have to do is switch it on and press the pre-set button.
* When walking or jogging do not listen to a personal stereo through headphones so that you will be more aware of your surroundings.
* If you are the victim of an attack, DO NOT TRY TO FIGHT. If you decide to defend yourself, be aware that the attacker might be stronger than you, or may take what you are using to protect yourself and use it against you. If possible, make as much noise as you can. Shouting FIRE rather than HELP may produce better results.
You are only allowed to protect yourself with something you are carrying, e.g. keys, deodorant spray, etc, but you may not carry a weapon. Inform the police, AS SOON AS PRACTICABLE.