KEEPING SAFE
Although society often only thinks of young people as being the criminals, much of the time young people are the victims of crime themselves. The police can give you advice about street safety and house security.
On the internet:
Think U Know is a new website giving information about keeping safe online. For example, how to share information and image safely, keeping your privacy, being aware of the risks you may be taking online and how to avoid them. You can also report problems you have had online through the website. For example, if you think that someone is not who they say they are.
On the streets:
- When you are going out late, arrange a lift or taxi before you go. Make sure someone knows when you are expected back
- Don't hitch-hike or take lifts from someone you've only just met
- Avoid lonely bus stops, especially after dark
- If you have to walk at night, keep to well lit streets. Walk on the side that faces the traffic. If you think you are being followed, head for the nearest place with people - e.g. a pub or shop
- Carry your keys in your pocket, in case your bag is stolen
- The most important thing is your safety. If someone tries to grab your bag, let it go. If someone tries to attack you, run away if you can. Don't stay to face up to them
- Get a screech alarm (DIY shops sell them), or take up self-defence classes
- If you drive, keep your car in good condition, with enough petrol. Don't pick up hitch-hikers
In the home:
- Think about the security of your home. Fit window locks and a proper mortice lock on the front door, not just a Yale-type lock. If you live in rented accommodation, talk to your landlord if you don't think the security is good enough
- When you move into a new property, have a new lock put on the front door or your room door - you don't know who has lived there in the past and still holds keys. Make sure you consult your landlord before doing this
- Leave a light on when you go out at night, and lock doors and windows - even if you are just going to the shops
- Never leave a key hidden outside (someone may see you hide it) - and especially not somewhere obvious e.g. on a string behind the door or under the mat
- Ask to see an ID card when officials call. Phone their local office to check if you are in doubt. If strangers call for someone else you live with, make them wait outside while you fetch them
- If you think someone has broken in during the night, switch on a light and make some noise. If you are on your own, pretend there is someone there and call to them. Never go to confront an intruder. Phone the police as soon as you can
- Put expensive possessions out of sight from windows. Get a DIY kit to mark them with your postcode. Get a decent D-type lock for your bike and lock it to something fixed