► In Town and at Night

Newcastle is statistically one of the UKs safest cities, but you've still got to look out for yourself, especially when you're on your own. And here's how...

ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT

- Try to avoid waiting at isolated bus stops.

- If you are concerened about other passengers on a bus, sit as close as possible to the driver

- Do not sit on an empty compartment on a train or metro

- Do not leave your bag loose on your lap or on the seat next to you

GETTING HOME

- When arriving home to an empty house, press your own doorbell to scare off any intruders

- When arriving home by car or taxi, ask the driver to wait until you are safely inside your home

- Have your keys ready to let yourself in quickly

- If there are signs of an intruder when you return, do not enter. Go to a trusted neighbour and call the police.

 

WALKING HOME

- Avoid walking in the dark. If you do, keep to busy, well-lit roads - short cuts just aren't worth the risk.

- If you think you are being followed, cross the road and keep walking. If you still feel unsafe, head for a busy area (or go into the nearest open shop or pub) and ask for help.

- Carry a personal attack alarm. This goes for guys as well as girls! Using an alarm can give you vital seconds in an attack.

- Keep your house keys in your pocket if you can, not in your bag.

- Try to avoid using a mobile phone/ listening to an ipod etc as this diminishes your awareness of your surroundings and you become an easy target.

If an attacker tries to take something off you - let them. Your personal safety is far more important than any valuable items.

 

NUSU NIGHTBUS

A fantastic, cheap and safe way to get home from uni. There is not limit to how often this can be used.