When out .. alone

• Where possible don't walk alone after dark.
• Always be alert.
• Avoid shortcuts and dark deserted areas.
• Walk near the kerb away from bushes and buildings.
• Walk facing the traffic.
• Do not hitch-hike.
• Carry a torch after dark.
• To avoid delay keep your keys in your hand when approaching car or home.
• If attacked scream and shout as loud as you can.

When in ..alone

• Secure all windows and doors.
• Fit and use a door chain and viewer.
• Women who live alone should use only their initials and surnames in name plates and directories.
• Don't admit strangers to your home.
• When answering the phone don't let strangers know you are alone.
• Report all suspicious incidents to the police immediately.

Baby-sitting

• Let friends or parents know where you can be reached.
• Make sure you know where the children's parents can be contacted.
• Keep a list of emergency numbers.
• Arrange for safe transportation home.

Shopping

• Carry your handbag close to your body and beware of persons approaching from front or rear.
• Don't put your handbag down where it can be stolen easily.
• If someone snatches your bag don't fight, you may be injured.
• If suitably dressed carry your purse and keys in coat pocket.
• Get as good a description as possible and tell the police immediately.
• Don't leave your purse on top of your shopping bag or pram.
• Avoid unlit or deserted car parks or areas.
• Don't carry excessive amounts of money in your handbag.
• Do not carry your credit cards and cheque book in the same bag.

In your car

• Where possible always travel on main or well used roads.
• Always lock your car after entering it or when leaving it.
• Check the interior of your car before entering especially the back seat - at night carry and use a torch.
• Keep all valuables out of sight.
• Park in well lit areas.
• If followed home don't get out of the car, make sure the doors are locked, sound the horn or flash your lights to attract attention.
• Ensure your car is mechanically sound and you have sufficient petrol to get you to your destination.
• Don't stop to help others - drive on and report it by phone.
• Never pick up hitch-hikers.

Public transport

• Avoid isolated bus stops.
• Sit near the driver, conductor or another woman.
• If pestered by someone complain to the driver, conductor or guard.
• Avoid empty compartments or compartments containing only one male person.

THE FACTS

Please don't have sleepless nights worrying about going out alone in Lancashire. Offences of violence against the person account for 3% of all crime in the county, but this is well below the national average. In any one year 5 females in 10,000 will be subject to violent crimes and 2 females in 10,000 subject to a sexual offence when outside their place of residence or work. However, if you take the simple precautions outlined above you can reduce even further your likelihood of becoming a victim.