Derbyshire Victim Services understand that taking any of the advice set out below does not eliminate crime, however it is a guidance to better understand how to assess and mitigate risk.
Personal security can be ensured by making slight changes to your daily routine, which can significantly reduce your chances of being a victim of crime.
Derbyshire is one of the safest places to live in the country, but for every offence committed, a victim is left facing the consequences.
Preventing crime results in fewer victims, reduces demand on local policing resources and creates safer streets. Thankfully, incidents of mugging and pickpocketing are reasonably low but if you are aware of how and where criminals who commit these crimes operate it may help you to avoid becoming a victim.
How can I protect myself?
By taking a few simple steps you can deter criminals from targeting you or your property. You can achieve this in a number of ways, including:
Personal Safety when going out
- Before going out consider how you will be getting home, check local taxi firms, times of public transport, can you travel with a friend?
- Plan your journey
- Keep people informed of your whereabouts
- Carry a personal alarm
- Stick to well-lit areas, preferably with people around
- When out never leave your drink unattended and if you become unwell let staff know so they can help keep you safe
- Keep your phone on you at all times – ensuring it has enough charge
Personal Safety whilst out running
- Plan your route and try to stay in well lit, busy areas
- Let people know your route and how long you will be out for
- Consider joining a running group so you are not alone
- Wear reflective clothing if running in the dark
- If feeling unsafe or uncomfortable, then get yourself to a busier area and inform someone of your concerns
- Think about downloading a running tracker app on which trusted family or friends can trace your movements
Transport Safety
- Let someone you trust know the taxi company and registration of the cab you are using
- Before getting into the taxi ask the driver for his badge
- If you feel worried or threatened during your journey, ask the driver to stop and disembark the journey
- Keep your mobile phone on you
- Consider downloading the Hollie Guard App and having trusted people linked to it
- If using the bus, know the times of the bus you are wanting to get so you are not waiting around too long for it
- If the bus is not busy sit on the lower deck and nearer to the driver
- On trains avoid carriages which have no access to corridors or other parts of the train. Try to sit where there are other people and avoid empty carriages.
- If you feel threatened, harassed or scared make as much noise as possible to attract the attention of the driver or guard.
Property Safety
- Try not keeping your valuables in one place – it may be a good idea to put your purse/wallet in an inside pocket and putting some cash and your bank card in a separate pocket
- Consider using purse bells on your bag and always keep your bag zipped up
- Keep windows and doors secure, remove any bins or ladders away from your windows
- If carrying a mobile phone, ensure that it is not easily seen by putting it in a bag or a pocket
- Safety lights can deter potential burglars
- Try not to leave your house or cars keys that are visible through the door or window
- If a person comes to your door saying they are from a company, always ask for ID
- If you are still uncertain, then call the company they say they are from to ask if that person is genuine
- Ring doorbells, chains and spy holes are good to have so that you can seek out who is at the door before opening it
- If you are going away close all windows and lock all doors
- Cancel any milk or newspapers before going away so that they don’t build up
- If going out at night time, leave a light on so it looks like someone is home
How do I stay safe?
If you feel that you or your family is at risk, talk to someone. Your local neighbourhood police team can be contacted via the non-urgent police number 101. You can also access help and advice at the following organisations:
CEOP
CEOP (Child Exploitation Online Protection) provides advice about staying safe online for both children and parents and allows victims to report any online behaviour they are uncomfortable with.
Think Jessica
Think Jessica is a registered charity supported by countless agencies, organisations and police forces nationwide and is committed to making people aware of the danger and financial implications caused by postal and telephone scams, educating professionals and protecting the most vulnerable members of our society from illegal practices.