Personal Safety, Self-Defence Tips, Staying Safe At Night, How To Avoid Being Followed, Street Safety Tips

Walking alone at night can be unsettling, especially if you suspect someone is following you. This guide covers practical, life-saving strategies to help you stay safe, avoid danger, and outsmart potential threats.

Imagine walking home after a night out, and you suddenly hear footsteps behind you. Your heart races—is someone following you? In situations like these, knowing what to do can make all the difference. Awareness, quick thinking, and smart tactics can help you stay safe and avoid potential danger.

This guide will equip you with essential safety tips that will keep you one step ahead if you ever find yourself in this unsettling situation.

How to Tell If Someone Is Following You

Before reacting, you need to confirm your suspicion. Here’s how:

• Increase your pace slightly. If their footsteps also speed up, it could be a red flag.
• Make multiple turns. Try taking three or four right turns—this will bring you back to your original location. If they are still behind you, it’s likely intentional.
• Check for mimicry. Try yawning or looking at your watch. If they do the same, they might be monitoring you.

If you confirm someone is following you, take action immediately.

What to Do If You’re Being Followed

1. Head Towards a Crowded Area

Your best defence is visibility. Walk toward a busy street, store, or restaurant where you can blend in. If possible, enter a public place and observe whether your follower also enters.

• If they do, go to the restroom and wait for 5-10 minutes.
• Inform staff members discreetly—they can help monitor the situation.
• Call a friend or family member to meet you.

2. Change Your Appearance

If you suspect someone is tracking you visually, a quick wardrobe change can help.

• Remove or add layers. Take off a jacket, hat, or hoodie to alter your appearance.
• If you have a ponytail or bun, let your hair down. This makes it harder for someone to grab you from behind.

3. Never Lead Them to Your Home

Avoid heading directly to your house. If you do, your pursuer will know where you live, putting you at risk later. Instead:

• Walk towards a public location first.
• If a group of people is nearby, approach them and pretend they are your friends.
• Ask someone to walk with you to a safer location.

4. Use Your Phone Wisely

Your phone can be a lifesaver, but only if used correctly.

• Don’t stare at your screen while walking—it makes you an easy target.
• Instead, call the police or a friend and share your location.
• Announce your location aloud while on the phone (e.g., “I’m at 5th Avenue, near the bookstore”). This makes it clear you’re aware of your surroundings.

5. Face the Threat Head-On (If Necessary)

If escape isn’t possible, taking control of the situation might deter your follower.

• Turn around and make eye contact. Most attackers rely on surprise; if you show them you’re aware, they may back off.
• Observe key details about their appearance—clothes, height, hair colour, or accessories—to provide a description later.
• Stand confidently with your shoulders back and chin up. A strong posture can make you look less like an easy target.

6. Prepare to Defend Yourself

If things escalate, being prepared to fight back and escape is crucial.

• Keep your keys between your fingers to use as a sharp defensive tool.
• Drop heavy items like shopping bags to move faster.

Make noise! Shout “FIRE!” instead of “Help!”—it’s more likely to grab attention.