You Asked for Them | You’ve Got them | 30 Safety Tips to Keep You and Your Family Safe

Always be alert and aware of your surroundings and the people around you. This is called situational awareness and is one of our most important safety tips.
Don’t make casual eye contact with people when walking.
Do not be easily distracted by your ‘smartphone’ Keep your head up.
Whenever possible, buddy up to walk out into dark parking lots or other similar areas.
Always inform family or friends if you are traveling and give them itinerary dates and locations you will visit. Another one of our most important safety tips.
Try to stay away from the brush or trees when walking or running. Always be prepared to run away from an attacker and scream.
Turn and go in the opposite direction of the car if a stranger approaches offering a ride.
Do not respond to conversations from strangers on the street.
Walk confidently and steadily and have your keys ready in your hand.
Avoid being on a cell phone or with earbuds in your ears (listening to music). This dulls your awareness of your surroundings, making you an easier target.
Avoid dangerous places at nighttime.
Stop and look around if you feel unsafe entering an area. You can return at a different time.
Avoid isolated bus or train stops.
When waiting for public transportation, do not stay in the same spot and make yourself an easy target.
Don’t open your purse or wallet in public places.
Keep flashy jewelry out of sight. You’re just asking for trouble.
Sit as close to the bus driver as possible while on a bus during off-hours. x Check your purse or wallet if someone is jostling, crowding, or pushing you.
Never leave your purse, backpack, or briefcase in plain view. Lock it up when you leave your desk or office.
Keep the office door locked if you work before/after regular business hours.
Try to find another worker or a security guard to walk out with you if you work late.
Do not get in the elevator with another person if you feel uncomfortable with that person; take the next one.
Be aware of escape routes for emergencies. Make yourself aware of more than one way out.
Avoid danger spots like quiet or badly lit alleyways, subways, or isolated car parks.
Walk down the middle of the pavement if the street is deserted.
Consider heading for a public place, somewhere you know there will be other people, for example, a garage or shop.
Avoid passing stationary cars with their engines running and people sitting in them.
Try to keep both hands free and avoid walking with your hands in your pockets.
Walk facing oncoming traffic whenever possible to avoid curb crawlers.
Keep your mind on your surroundings – remember, if you are chatting on your mobile phone or wearing a personal stereo, you will not hear trouble approaching.
Be extra careful when using ATMs. Make sure nobody is hovering nearby, and do not count your money in public.