Staying safe
Derby is a relatively safe and friendly city but as with any city bad things do happen.
To keep yourself safe when out and about follow these tips:
- Walk confidently and be aware of what's going on around you when you are outside
- If you're planning to get drunk, make sure you know how you're getting home before you go out. Book a taxi or make an arrangement with a friend to get home together
- Keep bags closed, zipped up and buckled. Be extra careful with rucksacks. If someone grabs it, let it go. Bags and their contents can be replaced.
- Carry your wallet out of sight.
- When using a cash machine, go in daylight or choose a well-lit one.
- If you're taking your laptop somewhere, keep it hidden in an anonymous bag like a rucksack. If you take your mobile out with you, keep it hidden and keep calls brief.
- If you suspect you're being followed, cross over the road to see if they follow. If they do then go into a pub or shop to call a mate or the police.
- Have your house keys ready before you reach the door - and carry them in your pockets, not in your bag. Rummaging around for them means you're not looking at what's around you.
- Remember if you're chatting on the phone or listening to your personal stereo, you won't hear someone come up behind you. Your hearing is your best protection; your voice is your best defence. If you're attacked, shout and run.
- If something does happen to you, report it to the police and campus authorities. You could stop it happening to someone else.
- Personal alarms are available from all UDSU reception points, charged at a minimal cost but well worth investing in for your personal safety and piece of mind.
