BELINDA’S TOP TIPS

ON STAYING SAFE AND CONFIDENT OUTDOORS

■ Get trained, research and prepare. If you can navigate your route, source and purify your own water, and cook your own food, then you will feel more confident in yourself and the surroundings.

■ Check in with friends and family. Let someone know where you are going and when you’re expected back. But think twice before you publish your location on social media or anywhere else public.

■ There is great benefit in projecting confidence. Even if you are confused or scared on the inside, fake it. Carrying a rape alarm or taking selfdefense classes should also be considered.

■ Trust your instincts. This is your experience and knowledge telling you how it really is, even if you can’t logically see it at the time. If your instincts tell you to get out of there, then it’s time to go.