Page 62 - Play Safe Keep Safe
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CHAPTER 11 HATE CRIME
Walking for exercise or How can you help the police to help other people
in the countryside
• Wear something white, bright or reflective so • If you have been followed, describe the person, or the car and driver
you can be seen easily. to the police - you might help make places safer for other people.
• Do not take a personal stereo - they block out • Tell your friends to P.L.A.N. so they can stay safe too.
the outside world. Try to listen out for sudden
noises from animals or birds - if they sound P repare
startled, there could be a problem to avoid. • Think ‘How do I get there?’ and ‘How do I get back?’ before you go.
• Do not hitch-hike or accept lifts from people • Tell someone where you are going, who with, and when you are back.
you do not know well - even if it starts to rain. • Think about any possible danger points.
• It is much safer to walk away from trouble if
you can. But if you cannot: L ook confident and let someone know where you are going
- You could protect yourself with something • Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that let you move easily.
you might be carrying anyway, such as a • Remember your body language - stand tall and look like you know where
shriek alarm, torch, umbrella or keys. you are going and why.
Do remember, it is against the law • Carry a shriek alarm (and learn how to use it), emergency phone numbers
in this country to carry anything (including the number to cancel your credit cards), some change in your
that is for use only in self-defence pocket, a phone card and your keys in a safe pocket.
such as a pepper spray or Mace.
A void risks and be aware of what is happening
• Keep looking at and listening to what is happening around you.
• Keep away from odd or out-of-the-way places whenever you can.
• Try not to change plans at the last minute - or if you have to, tell someone.
• Keep one hand free - not shoved in your pocket or cluttered up with shopping.
N ever take your safety for granted - Never say to yourself...
• It only happens to other people. • It is only a short journey. • They look honest.
Whatever you are going to do, you will be safer and more confident if you remember to plan (P.L.A.N.) first.
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