Safety Strategies: Outside the Home

I. THE BASICS

It’s important to ensure that wherever you are, you have reduced exposure to harm and as much access to support in case of emergency.

 

  • Stay alert:

    • Avoid being completely distracted on your devices (e.g., eyes on the phone the whole time, both headphones on at full volume, engaging on long phone calls)

    • Minimize wearing accessories that impair your peripheral vision, or adjust accordingly so you can see (e.g., hats, hairstyles, scarves, sunglasses, hoodies)

    Know your surroundings:

    • Entrances and emergency exits of stores, malls, and venues

    • Landmarks and street names (in case you need to be located during an emergency)

    • Services near you: police/security, hospitals, stores, restaurants, transit stations that are open late

    • Find people you can turn to for help: security personnel, employees, other passersby

  • • If possible, travel in groups

    • Have a safety plan with your companions:

    • Arrive and leave together

    • Arrange a meeting area if you get separated

    • Make sure everyone has access to communication with each other (e.g., exchange contact numbers)

    • If you are travelling alone, share your itinerary with loved ones and update on changes if necessary

  • • Have a fully charged phone, carry a charger and enough money for emergencies

    • Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.

    • If you call by mistake, stay on the line so you can inform the dispatcher. If you hang up without explanation, they are obligated to send emergency services if the caller does not respond or a busy signal is heard.

    • Attract as much attention as possible to get help:

    • Trigger the nearest emergency button (e.g., inside an elevator, public transit)

    • Make as much noise as you can (e.g., use a whistle, yell)

  • Entering/leaving your vehicle:

    • If you are approaching your vehicle, have your keys ready. Check inside (e.g., backseat) before going in.

    • Once you enter, lock your doors immediately and drive away. Avoid spending unnecessary time waiting inside.

    • Avoid leaving your car unlocked and unattended

    • Leave the car focused on your surroundings; avoid getting out while distracted on your phone.

    While driving:

    • Avoid distracted driving (e.g., texting, looking at passengers instead of the road while talking to them)

    • Pay attention to any unusual driving from other cars (e.g., a car following you for an unusually long period of time, or a car being driven wrecklessly)

  • • If you can, choose empty seats. If you are unable to, choose the seats nearest to the doors.

    • Listen to your intuition when choosing who you’ll sit next to and pay attention to the behavior of those around you.

    • If a passenger exhibits inappropriate or unusual behavior, distance yourself (e.g., move seats or go into the next train cart, leave at the next stop.)

    • Access the nearest emergency button or call transit emergency number if there is a threat.

  • • Use reputable and registered services

    • Before entering a ride-share vehicle, make sure your driver and vehicle match the description

    • Share your ride itinerary with loved ones

    • Pay attention to your route to make sure you are going where you need to

    • If your driver makes you uncomfortable, ask to be dropped off at another public place and get another ride

 
 
 

II. WORKPLACE/SCHOOL SAFETY

Aside from the home, work (or school) is another place where you might spend most of your time. While most companies and institutions provide emergency procedure training (and some have their own security personnel, metal detectors and alarm systems), it’s worth taking extra steps for your safety. If there are no established plans provided, make one for yourself.

 

  • • Know workplace exits and entrances (both regular and emergency)

    • If there are stairs and elevators; know where you can find each one in case you need to change your route for any reason

    • If possible, park near the entrances and exits and well-lit areas

    • Get a colleague or security guard to walk with you if you feel uncomfortable

    • Arrange to park near and/or leave together with a friend or coworker

  • • When starting at a new job, inquire with your superiors and colleagues about its security history

    • Does the company/institution have a history of abuse, violence or crisis?

    • How were they handled?

    • Does the company/institution have a policy in place if it happens?

    • If your employer or colleagues do not provide you with an adequate answer (e.g., “We’re not allowed to talk about it”), consider employment elsewhere or maintain heightened awareness if you choose to stay

    • If there is no specific plan for violence, use the emergency plan as a starting place and modify if necessary.

 
 

III. TRAVELING OVERSEAS

In addition to the listed strategies when out in public, consider the following when going to another province or overseas, whether for work or for vacation.

 

  • • Check the travel advisory regarding your destination

    • Follow local advice on tourist safety (e.g., how to spot scams, areas to avoid)

    • Research your destination’s culture; social norms vary in each country and not following their laws and customs could put you at risk

    • Research how local authorities respond to reports regarding tourist (and female) safety

  • • Always travel with identification

    • Add the local emergency, embassy contacts including emergency consular assistance to your phone

    • Remain vigilant of your surroundings and belongings

    • Avoid interactions with strangers. If you need help, instead of accepting help from random passersby, approach an employee at an establishment (e.g., store, restaurant). Common scammer/pickpocket tactics rely on tourists agreeing to a forced interaction when approached.

    • Keep track of local media

    • Keep information about your accommodations and travel plans private

 
 

  • • Cristall, Jonathan. “What They Don’t Teach Teens: Life Safety Skills for Teens and the Adults Who Care for Them.” Quill Driver Books. 2020.

    • Government of Canada. “Advice for women travelers.” Travel and tourism. 2023.

    —-. "Travel advice and advisories by destination." Travel and tourism. 2023.

    • Hanson, Jason. “Spy Secrets That Can Save Your Life: A Former CIA Officer Reveals Safety and Survival Techniques to Keep You and Your Family Protected.” TarcherPerigee. 2016.

    • Larkin, Tim. "Survive the Unthinkable: A Total Guide to Women's Self-Protection." Rodale Books. 2013.

    • Mattingly, Katy. “Self-Defense Steps to Survival: A Proven Plan for Personal Protection.” Human Kinetics. 2007.

    • Wright-Martell, Chris. “Self-Defense for Women: Strategies, Moves & Everyday Tactics to Gain Confidence and Stay Safe.” Morris Book Publishing. 2011.

 
Katrina Velasquez