Everyone has the right to live without fear and feel safe within their community. Every day there are many potentially unsafe or dangerous situations that you may come across and as such it is important that you utilise strategies and precautions that will help to maximise your safety.
Tips for Personal Safety
With Bags and Purses:
- Secure your bag or purse so that it is tightly shut to ensure that valuables are not on display or within reach.
- Ensure you always keep your bag or purse on you and hold it with a firm grip; do not leave it in a shopping trolley or unattended.
- Do not carry large amounts of cash in your bag or purse.
- If you are seated, such as on the train, bus or cinema always keep your bag or purse in your lap rather than on a spare seat.
- At home, keep a copy of all important documents that are in your bag or purse. This will allow for ease with any card cancellations if your bag or purse is stolen.
When Banking or Using the ATM:
- When using an ATM (Automatic Teller Machine) make sure it is in a public place where you can be seen by other people and do not allow other people to see how much money you have withdrawn.
- Once completing your transaction at the ATM, do not stand around to count your money, this will make you an easy target for potential thieves.
- Request a daily cash withdrawal limit be put on your card (e.g. $500). If your bag or wallet is stolen this means that the thief cannot withdraw more than the daily limit applied.
- Do not give anyone or write your PIN (personal identification number) down anywhere. Do not store your PIN with your bank card and do not allow anyone else to use your card.
- If you prefer to choose your own PIN, you should NOT choose an obvious combination such as your birth date, as this can be easily obtained from other identification (e.g. Driver's Licence) if your wallet is stolen.
When in the Street or Public Spaces:
- Ensure that you only take what you need with you and keep any valuables out of sight.
- Plan your route before heading out and calculate how long the trip will take. Make sure you will not be walking through any badly lit areas at night and avoid isolated areas.
- Walk confidently with your head up, not only does this deter possible offenders but it also ensures you have a greater awareness of your surroundings.
- Always carry a mobile phone or change for a pay phone.
- If you believe you are in danger or being followed, change your route, such as crossing the road. If you still feel in danger, attract the attention of anyone close by such as a nearby shop or house.
Further Information
The Queensland Police Service (QPS) provides free personal safety awareness workshops to all members of the community upon request. Your local QPS Crime Prevention Unit can be contacted on (07) 3817 1351 or by email dcpc.ipswich@police.qld.gov.au to organize a workshop.