Static Security

For many people, walking home late at night or getting into a taxi on their own after nightfall, may make them understandably nervous. However, it is worth noting that personal attacks in the UK are still relatively rare but it still makes good sense to be prudent when out at night, especially if you are travelling on your own.

1. First of all, make sure you walk with confidence and project an attitude of calm assurance.  You are less likely to be considered a target if you appear assertive, walking briskly with your head held up.
2. Secondly, be constantly aware of your surroundings.  Make sure you walk on the lit side of the pavement as far as possible.  Look ahead and cross the road if you feel that small groups of people or the loner standing nearby may be threatening.  Keep to more crowded areas if possible and plan your route home, making sure you avoid the short cut down the dark alley or across the unlit park.
3. When on public transport, sit downstairs on the bus where you are more in view of the driver or other passengers.  Find a train carriage which is already occupied by others.  If you are travelling alone in a taxi, make sure you sit in the back and not next to the driver, where you have the choice of exiting from 2 doors if the need arises.
4. Consider taking self-defence classes.  You do not have to be super fit or an athlete to take part.  Good self-defence classes will mention many of the above points and should focus on avoiding an attack in the first place.  They will show you techniques and moves to use in close combat and when you are being restrained or when you have been pushed to the ground.
5. If you are grabbed or attacked in the street, do shout as loud as you can!  Police say that many women, in particular, do not do this for shyness or for appearing rude.  Shout loudly, scream obscenities if you need to, but make others aware of exactly what is happening. Often shouting alone is enough to put off a would-be attacker.