Becoming a Streetwise Traveller

Hypothetical Situations

You are out for a walk and you become aware of being followed by someone on foot:

• You can confirm that you are being followed by crossing the road at the next intersection and keep re-crossing, if necessary.
• Head for a public place.
• Hammer on someone’s front door.
• Do not lead the man back to your home unless you know others will be there to help.
• If you hear someone else, walk up to that person and explain that you think you’re being followed and ask if he/she would mind talking to you for a few minutes or walking with you to safety.

Someone is following you in a car:

• Follow the same precautions as if someone were following you on foot (listed above).
• Walk facing on-coming traffic so it is harder for someone to pull up behind you.
• If a man drives up and asks for directions, keep a good distance between yourself and the car. He is probably totally harmless but if he is not he may be able to pull you into the car with him if you stand too close. Keep your answer short and move on.
• If a car does stop and you are threatened, do not stay around. Bellow loudly, draw as much attention as you can and go in the opposite direction.

A man comes up behind you and touches you inappropriately:

• If you are in a crowded place, shame him by identifying him and telling the world what he has just done.
• If you can’t do the above, grind a heel into his foot.
• Shout at him to show him you are angry. He doesn’t expect you to do that.

Someone snatches your purse:

• If someone tries to take your purse or wallet, let go of it rather than get involved in a fight for it. Personal property is not worth the risk of injury. Only if you are in physical danger should you consider using force.
• Bellow loudly and draw as much attention as you can if the robber cannot hurt you to stop you from doing so.
• Report the crime to the police immediately and tell them as many details as you can remember.