12:00 AM 11th November 2023
lifestyle
1 In 2 Women Feel Unsafe Walking Alone At Night
One in two women report feeling unsafe walking alone after nightfall in a busy public place.
Image by holdosi from Pixabay
Now that the winter months are drawing in, when the evenings are at their darkest, it’s a sad reality that women must take extra steps to protect themselves.
Get Licensed, a security staffing platform, reveal their top tips on how to stay safe in the dark:
Use public transport: Whenever available and safe, consider using public transportation or rideshare services, like Uber, instead of walking alone at night.
Buddy system: Whenever possible, walk with a friend or in a group, as there's safety in numbers.
Plan your route: Before heading out, plan your route and let someone you trust know where you're going and when you expect to return. Stick to well-lit, populated areas whenever possible. Don't establish a predictable routine by taking the same route at the same time every day. Switch up your routes occasionally to make it more difficult for anyone with ill intentions to predict your movements.
Stay Visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing to enhance your visibility to others. Carrying a small torch or using a smartphone torch can also help.
Turn the Headphones Off: Wearing headphones can significantly diminish your ability to hear what's happening in your environment. This can make you an easier target for potential assailants. Some assailants may deliberately target individuals wearing headphones because they perceive them as easier targets. If you need to listen to music, use one headphone and keep the other ear free.
Carry Personal Alarms & Distracting Items: Consider carrying a personal safety alarm or whistle that you can use to attract attention in case of an emergency. Even a set of keys in your hand can startle and deter potential assailants while attracting attention from others in the vicinity.
Be Wary of Strangers: Avoid engaging in conversations with strangers unless necessary. Be cautious about sharing personal information. If someone you don't know approaches you and makes you uncomfortable, don't hesitate to cross the street, change direction, or enter a store or business for safety.
Share Your Location: Use location-sharing features on your smartphone with a trusted friend or family member when walking alone. They can keep an eye on your progress and know if you encounter any issues.
Use Your Phone Strategically: While it's generally advisable to avoid distractions, you can use your phone as a deterrent. Act as though you are on a call with someone, or pretend to be texting. This can give the impression that you are connected and less vulnerable.
Shahzad Ali, CEO of Get Licensed, commented:
“Certain crimes are more likely to occur during the winter months for several reasons. Firstly, the longer nights and reduced daylight hours create opportunities for criminals to operate under the cover of darkness, making it easier for them to evade detection. Additionally, the cold weather can drive some individuals to commit crimes out of desperation, as they may struggle to meet their basic needs or face increased financial pressures. It's crucial for people to be wary during the winter months by staying vigilant in public spaces, and being cautious when travelling. Awareness and preparedness can help reduce the risk of falling victim to crime during this season.”
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