One in two women feel unsafe after dark.
Research conducted by the Office for National Statistics, has discovered that a shocking two out of three women aged between 16 and 34 have experienced a form of harassment when walking alone at night.
Now that the clocks have gone back, the nights are only getting darker earlier.
And, while avoiding being out after nightfall is ideal, whether it be walking home from work or just taking your dog for a walk, the chance of being caught out is pretty high during this time of year.
Most women can probably agree that this can be unnerving, even if you are walking in a recognisable area close to your home.
But, the tragic events surrounding Sarah Everard has led to many conversations about female safety and for women to understand how to be and feel safe when walking after nightfall.
So, to help you feel less anxious, here are five points for you to consider when walking home at night.
1. WALK ON WELL-LIT STREETS
To ensure that there are plenty of people and traffic around, always walk on well-lit streets.
No back alleys, no short-cuts through the park, the best option for you are main roads.
Getting back that couple of minutes later because you didn’t take the short cut will all be worth it when you’re safe and sound at home.
2. DON’T WALK ALONE
It is understandable that this isn’t always possible, but whenever you can, try to walk with someone else.
Not only can having company be a comfort blanket when you’re feeling on edge, but the fact that you’re not alone may prevent individuals from harassing you and putting you in danger.
Read about people’s experiences when walking at night in the graphic below.
3. HAVE YOUR PHONE TO HAND
In this day and age, it is so quick and easy to call emergency phone numbers whenever you find yourself in that sort of situation.
By setting your emergency contacts and having your phone to hand when walking, you can call someone straight away if you’re feeling uneasy.
4. WALK WITH CONFIDENCE
Four out of 10 people have reported that at some point, they have altered their behaviour at night when feeling unsafe.
Walking with confidence is one way in which you can do this; you are less likely to be seen as the easy target, which may therefore prevent you from being harassed.
5. CALL SOMEONE
To help you feel more at ease, it is always a good idea to have someone on the phone while you’re walking.
Not only will this take your mind off of the fact that you’re walking alone at night, but it will also make time go faster. Before you know it, you’ll be home.
