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Outdoors

If you are on your own there are some simple things you can do to make sure you stay safe. For example:

  • Stay in bright, well-lit and busy areas.
  • Look and act confident.
  • Get a personal attack alarm.  They are available from DIY stores or ask your local Crime Prevention Officer.

Bag Safety and Valuables

We all care about our personal property but, remember, your personal safety is always more important. If you feel in danger, then let your valuables go.

  • Carry your bag close to you with the clasp facing inwards.
  • If possible carry your things in a small bag across your body, under your outer coat.
  • Spread your valuables around.  For example, carry your house keys in your pocket, your phone in your bag and your money in your jacket.
  • Try not to advertise your valuables, mobile phone, laptop, MP3 player, jewellery, watches.

Being Followed

On the first sign that you are being followed, get to a safe location and call for help - never take chances with your safety.

  • You can check if someone is following you by crossing the street – more than once, if necessary.
  • Go to the nearest busy place or well-lit area and call the police on 999.
  • Avoid using an enclosed telephone box, as you could be trapped inside.
  • If you are in immediate danger and there are other people about, call out for help.

Unknown Vehicles

If you think you are being followed by an unknown vehicle or feel threatened it is best to err on the side of caution and call the police immediately on 999.  Other practical steps you can take to protect yourself include:

  • Scream and set off your personal attack alarm.  Personal alarms are a good deterrent.
  • Get away as quickly as possible.
  • Make a note of the car’s registration number and the driver’s description.
  • Write down details as soon as possible afterwards and phone us to report the incident.

Jogging, Cycling or Walking

It is best to pursue any outdoor activity in a group but this is not always possible.  Follow our common sense advice to protect yourself against danger.

  • Try to vary your route and time.
  • Stick to well-lit areas.
  • Keep to main paths and open spaces.
  • Avoid wooded areas.
  • Avoid wearing an MP3 player or personal stereo as this will make it more difficult to hear traffic or someone approaching from behind.
  • Do not take shortcuts through dark or lonely areas.
  • Walk facing the traffic so a car cannot pull up behind you unnoticed.
  • Never hitch-hike or take lifts from strangers.

Halloween Safety

There can be a number of risks associated with Halloween from fireworks right through to Trick or Treating. Steps that young people can take to ensure safety include:

  • Always go Trick or Treating with a responsible adult, perferably a parent or guardian.
  • Stay in well lit areas and make sure you are visible - carry a torch, glow stick or put reflective tape onto costumes.
  • Do not knock on doors where there is a sign saying 'No Trick or Treat'.
  • Do not enter any house, remain outside on the doorstep.
  • Do not eat sweets until you get home and they have been checked to make sure that they are sealed and have not been tampered with.
  • Walk! Do not run or use bicycles.
  • Ensure masks do not obscure your view.
  • Never get into a strangers car.

To download a copy of the Primary School Halloween Colouring Competition for North and West Belfast click here.

For those who do not wish to be disturbed by young people trick or treating, you can download a small poster and place it in your front window, to explain that you won't be answering the door to visitors. To download the poster click here.