Staying safe in public

No tip can guarantee safety, and if something happens to you, it is never your fault. These habits can lower your risk and help you act quickly.

Stay aware

• Trust your instincts. If a person, place, or situation feels wrong, leave. You don’t need a reason or to be polite.
• Look up from your phone and keep the volume low or one earbud out, especially when walking alone.
• Stick to well-lit, busy routes. Avoid shortcuts through empty lots, alleys, or parking garages when you can.
• Walk with purpose and know where you’re going.
• Tell someone your plans — where you’re going and when you expect to arrive. Many phones let you share your location with trusted people.
• Keep your phone charged.

If you think you’re being followed

1. Don’t go home. You don’t want to lead the person to where you live.
2. Cross the street or change direction to see if they follow.
3. Go to a busy public place — a store, restaurant, gas station, or hotel lobby — and tell an employee.
4. Call 911 if you feel unsafe. Say where you are and describe the person.
5. Make noise and draw attention if someone approaches you.

If you can’t safely talk, you may be able to text 911. Text-to-911 isn’t available everywhere. If it isn’t, you’ll get a message telling you to call instead.

Getting around

• Rideshare: Check that the license plate, car, and driver match the app before getting in. Sit in the back seat.
• Your car: Have your keys ready. Look around and in the back seat before getting in, and lock the doors right away.
• Walking near traffic: Use sidewalks and crosswalks, watch for turning cars, and wear something bright or reflective at night.

If someone tries to rob you

Hand over your purse, wallet, or phone. Your things can be replaced — you can’t. Get to a safe place and call 911.

See something, say something

If you see something suspicious, like an unattended bag in a crowded place or someone trying to get into a restricted area, tell local police or building security. Call 911 for emergencies.