How to stay alert

The personal safety tips that will help keep you on your toes

PLAN how you are going to get to your destination, and how you are going to get back. Let people know where you are going and how long you should be. Let your friends know if you are leaving with someone outside of the group.

GET OFF YOUR PHONE

THE number one target for a street thief is your mobile phone.

Avoid making or taking calls in public. If your phone does ring, try to answer it in a public building rather than on the street. Keep your mobile phone safely on your person and out of view.

WALLETS, PURSES AND VALUABLES

CONCEAL your wallet or purse. Carry only as much cash and as many cards as is necessary for your day’s business. Keep a separate amount of cash on your person in case your wallet or purse is stolen.

If you are wearing expensive or sentimental jewellery, avoid walking in public — get a lift to and from your destination. Do not struggle with a thief; you may injure yourself in the process.

CHOOSE WELL LIT LOCATIONS

AVOID darkly lit places if you are walking or parking. Keep your car locked at all times when travelling through places unknown to you.

Avoid leaving valuables clearly on display in cars. If you need to travel through a poorly lit area, do not do so alone. If you are in a group, be conscious that you could be causing anxiety for people walking on their own.

If you have been attacked, report it to gardaí immediately. Try to recall as much information as possible about the incident. Tell a friend or family member.

USING PUBLIC TRANSPORT AND TAXIS

AVOID waiting alone at bus stops and on train platforms. If possible, sit where the driver can see you on public transport.

Avoid sitting in an empty carriage on trains or trams. Check the time of the last train, bus or tram back to your accommodation, and always use a licensed taxi.