Stay safe in the dark

If using public transport, check times and plan your journey. Have a contingency plan in case your train or bus is cancelled, or you're travelling later than expected. Avoid poorly-lit or very quiet areas, even if they are the shortest route. Instead, choose a route with people, bars, cafes, shops etc. Badger the local council to improve lighting in your area. Walk with confidence. There's no doubt that striding out with an air of confidence puts off any potential attackers. Carry a mobile phone. Make sure it's topped up with credit, charged and programmed with emergency numbers, including a couple of cab firms you've used before. But keep it out of sight, and don't be tempted to put headphones on; it'll distract your instinct for danger. Always let someone know where you are or where you are going. Text or phone before you start walking. Some phones have an SOS message facility - check your phone! Carry a personal attack alarm. The Energizer combined alarm and LED torch is brilliant and easily clips onto your bag or belt. The alarm will see off the attacker and the torch helps you find your keys at the bottom of your bag. If your route is particularly dark, carry a bigger torch. You may need to buy a bigger handbag though! Wear flat shoes or at least have some with you. There are some gorgeous fold-away ballet pumps on the market that will rescue your feet if they can't carry you any further and you need to get away in a hurry! If you think someone's following you, cross the road. If they cross too, assume your suspicions are right and get help. Try a pub, bar, cafe etc, or knock on the nearest door where there are lights on. Never be tempted into an unlicensed taxi. Book through a known company and make sure the driver tells you the name it was booked in before getting in. If you are out on your own, don't visibly display items of value which may be attractive to potential muggers, such as MP3 players.