Safety Out and About

Sheffield is certainly NOT one of this country´s, nor the world´s most dangerous cities. However like almost any big city anywhere in the world, there are some problems relating to personal safety on the streets at night and with opportunist thefts. So, like anywhere else, it is sensible to take precautions and to avoid the type of situations in which crimes might occur.

ALWAYS INSURE YOUR PROPERTY!

The media, specific groups and individuals publicise any attacks (particularly on women) to alert others of perceived or possible dangers. You should remember that such occurrences are comparatively rare. It is not necessary to confine yourself to your home in the evenings, provided you are sensible. You may like to take the following points into consideration:

• STAY WITH OTHER PEOPLE as far as possible late at night (after about 10 pm).
• DO NOT accept lifts from strangers; hitch-hiking is considered to be dangerous, particularly for women.
• AVOID using subways at night unless they are well lit and being used by many others; a longer detour may be safer.
• STAY ALERT when walking alone at night. For instance, don't use walkmans as it can prevent you from hearing if anyone is approaching you.
• KEEP expensive mobile telephones out of sight on the street. These can be stolen.
• IPoDS can be tempting to the few bad people around. Don't use in the street.
• KEEP LAP-TOP computers hidden or discrete. Don't advertise them by carrying in a lap-top case.
• IT'S WISE NOT RUDE TO AVOID conversation or make eye contact with anyone behaving in an anti-social manner.
• DO NOT trust strangers who offer to help you in financial matters, sell you a cheap computer etc. Students have lost hundreds or even thousands of pounds through such scams.

• DO if possible make sure that your friends know where you are if you intend to be out.
• DO find out where shops, petrol stations, etc are open very late at night. Remember this information and go there if in need of help.
• DO try to keep to areas/streets that are well lit; walk briskly near the edge of the pavement, towards oncoming traffic if possible. You are less likely to be attacked if you are visible to others and appear confident.
• DO stay sober and in control if out late at night.
• DO stay in residential or busy areas where possible. For example, some areas in and around the University may be busy and safe during the day BUT are best avoided at night. Walk a longer way round, get a taxi or ask friends to escort you.
• AVOID unlit areas, waste ground, alley ways and short cuts.
• IT IS VERY UNLIKELY THAT YOU'LL EVER FEEL THREATENED BUT IF YOU DO, shout and scream or use a screech alarm. This will often deter an attacker.
• DO go to the Porters’ Lodge, at Firth Court or Mappin Street if you find yourself alone in the University area and feeling vulnerable.
• DO use the Women’s Night Safety Bus (women only).
• DO avoid using communal lifts (elevators) if there is only one other unknown person to ride with you.
• TRAVEL by public transport or taxi. Always check it is a legitimate taxi by checking the taxi plate on the rear or the driver’s ID-card.