Personal Safety Tips
Personal Safety Tips:
Personal safety is something we can all take simple steps to improve in our daily routines. Whether you’re at home, walking through your neighbourhood, at work, or driving across the city, staying aware and planning ahead can help reduce your risk and keep you safer.
At Home
Your home should feel like a safe place. A few small habits can go a long way in protecting yourself and your property.
- Don’t open the door for people you don’t know. If someone knocks, speak to them through a closed and locked door.
- Close your window curtains or blinds at night so people can’t easily see inside your home.
- Make sure your doors and windows have strong locks and remember to use them regularly.
When You’re Out and About
Whether you’re walking downtown, in your neighbourhood, or around a shopping area, planning ahead and staying aware of your surroundings is important.
- Plan your route in advance and avoid shortcuts through dark or isolated areas such as vacant lots or poorly lit pathways.
- Take note of places where you can quickly get help, like police stations, convenience stores, or other businesses open late.
- When possible, travel with a friend or family member instead of walking alone.
- If someone attempts to steal your purse or bag, don’t resist. Your safety is more important than your belongings. Move to a safe place and contact police right away. Only defend yourself if you are being physically attacked.
Distraction Theft
Distraction theft is a common tactic used by skilled pickpockets. These thieves often approach people in public places pretending to be friendly or needing help. They may try to get close to you, touch you, or distract you while they steal valuables.
They often target:
- Seniors
- Tourists
- People leaving bank machines
- Anyone visibly carrying cash or valuables
You can protect yourself by:
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- Only carrying the cash and cards you need for the day.
- Keeping purses zipped and wallets in a front pocket when possible.
- Being cautious of strangers who approach you and seem overly friendly or speak quickly to distract you.
- Avoiding situations where strangers get too close to you or try to touch you.
At Work
Personal safety is also important in the workplace, especially if you work late or in a large building.
- Try to avoid using empty stairwells when possible.
- If you notice someone in the building who doesn’t appear to belong there, contact building security.
- If you’re leaving work at night and feel uncomfortable, ask security for an escort.
- If you’re working late alone, let a friend or family member know where you are and when you expect to leave.
In Your Vehicle
Your vehicle can also be a safe space if you take a few precautions.
- Keep your vehicle well maintained and make sure you have enough fuel, especially during longer drives.
- During Calgary’s winter months, carry essentials like a snow brush, ice scraper, and shovel.
- Park in well-lit areas whenever possible.
- Once you enter your vehicle, lock the doors right away and avoid sitting in the parking lot longer than necessary.
If You Think Someone is Following You
If you feel like someone may be following you while walking or driving, trust your instincts.
Do not go directly home, as you don’t want the person to know where you live. Instead, go to a safe, busy location such as a police station, gas station, or another open business and seek help.
More Crime Prevention Resources
Stay one step ahead: check out more tools, tips, and crime‑prevention resources.
