Personal security is an individual concern. Some people feel far more confident in certain surroundings than others. Each of us knows what makes us feel safe and circumstances where we feel vulnerable. It is important that we recognise these and develop personal safety plans to cover our day to day activities. This may be as simple as ensuring that at night we always walk with a friend, stick to well lit areas, use the security escort services or carry whistles.
It is important that we recognise potentially dangerous situations before they develop, assess the risks and have a safety plan. To assist you in developing your own personal safety plan consider the following:
- What activities do I undertake which make me feel threatened/vulnerable?
- How can I avoid them?
- What can I do to make me feel safe?
Possible courses of action:
- Avoid lonely places, especially at night. Walk only on lit walkways away from shrubs and trees. Do not take short cuts.
- Walk with a friend or stay with a group.
- Be alert and walk purposefully – confidence deters attackers.
- Be wary of strangers, on foot or in cars, asking directions – it is better to be rude than be in danger.
- If someone follows you, change direction and go to a place where there are other people.
- Be prepared to scream or shout if attacked.
- Consider taking a self-defence course.
- When you are socialising, do not drink too much; keeping a clear head makes it easier to make wise decisions when it comes to personal safety.
Respect your intuition. Do not allow logic to override your 'sixth sense' – it could save you from danger.
Personal Property
- Never leave your wallet, bag or purse, or other items of property unsecured and unattended; it only takes seconds to disappear.
- Only carry cash for your immediate needs.
- Clearly mark your property.
- Never carry your PIN with your credit/debit cards. Never tell anyone, including a bank representative, what your PIN is.
- Never let anyone see your PIN when entering it on an Automatic Teller Machine. Always carry your bag or purse close to you.
- Do not put your bag or purse on the floor when in a public toilet cubicle.
- Do not leave keys, cash or other valuables in your desk drawers.
- Lock your home, car and office when you leave them.
- Report all thefts on campus to Security on 3735 7777 and to the Police.