Neighbourhood Watch

Try and stay away from lonely bus stops, especially after dark. On an empty/partially empty bus, sit near the driver. On a train, sit with other people. If you can, sit in the part that stops directly adjacent to the station. If you feel threatened, remove yourself from the potential danger. Do not wait for it to happen, trust your instincts. When visiting other peoples premises always note exits and make sure you know the way out.

RETURNING HOME

When returning home always have your house keys in your hand and ready to place in the door lock. If the house appears to have been interfered with, do not enter. Go to a neighbours house and call the Police. If you are in bed and you hear noises downstairs do not go down. Turn on the lights, make a noise and summon help.

PLAN YOUR JOURNEY

Inform someone of the route you are taking and your estimated time of arrival. Telephone them when you arrive.

Keep items in your car that you might need in an emergency. These include: Torch, Change for the telephone/phone card, Warning triangle, 'Jump leads' and a" Help call the police" poster. Consider the need for buying or renting a mobile car phone.

Do not stop to pick up strangers. If another motorist attempts to make you stop by flashing their lights and indicating a fault on your vehicle. acknowledge signal, but drive to a busy area where you are confident to stop. Many unmarked Police cars have two internal rear view mirrors, so this is a point to look out for.

Drive with your windows closed and do not partially open them to talk to strangers. Consider driving with your doors locked.

Do not drive with your handbag or other valuables visible in the car. They could be a target for smash-and -grab at traffic lights or zebra crossings.

Driving too close to the car in front not only puts you at risk of an accident but it makes it easier for the vehicle in front to force you to stop.

Do not respond to harassment or bad driving, as this may contribute to confrontation. Try to remain calm and do not react

If you stop to use a telephone, stop as close as possible. Face oncoming traffic so that you can see any danger.

Leave the passenger door open so that you can quickly get inside the car.

If you break down decide whether it is safer to stay inside or to leave your car.

Sit in the passenger seat if you remain inside and lock the door.

Do not open them for strangers.

If you do not have a car phone consider using a dummy as a possible deterrent.

Display "Help call the Police" poster (available from your local Police Station).

If you decide to leave your car, take a personal alarm with you and keep it in your hand. If it is or will become dark take a torch. Lock your car. If you have a warning triangle place it in the direction of oncoming traffic, 30 metres from your car on the same side of the road.

Next Issue Motorways and Parking to conclude this article.