Crime prevention

There are lots of things you can do to minimise your risk of becoming a victim of crime.

Stay safe when you're out and about

  • Before you go out, plan your journey - where you're going and how you're going to get there.
  • Keep your bag with you at all times - wear it across your body or under your coat.
  • Keep all your personal items, such as your money, mobile phone and keys, hidden and out of sight in your bag or pocket. Only take with you the money you'll need.
  • Take a mobile phone if you have one and the number of someone you know. Have some money for if you need to make a call from a public phone.
  • If you have one, take a personal alarm with you. Keep it where you can find it easily, make sure you know how to use it.
  • Tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back.
  • If you use a wheelchair, think about the safest place to carry your bag.
  • Avoid walking alone after dark - keep to busy and well-lit roads.
  • Don't be tempted to hitch a ride or accept a lift from someone you don't know.

Stay safe on public transport

Buses

  • Check bus times, so you don't have to wait too long.
  • When travelling at night, try to wait for your bus at a brightly lit bus stop.
  • If you can, travel with friends, someone you know, or sit near the driver.
  • Tell the driver if someone bothers you.
  • Get off at the bus stop nearest to your home.

Trains 

  • Check train times, so you don't have to wait too long. Make sure you know the time of the last train.
  • If you're alone on a platform waiting for the train, stay in a brightly lit area.
  • If you can, sit in a busy carriage.
  • If someone bothers or frightens you, get up and move away.

Taxis

  • Always use either a licensed taxi that's clearly displaying door signs and a white licence plate on the rear of the vehicle.
  • Alternatively, use a licensed private hire vehicle. They display a yellow licence plate on the front and rear of the vehicle and signs to the front and rear doors. These include the operator's name and contact details.
  • If you have any doubt that the vehicle or driver isn't licensed by the council, don't get in.
  • Don't get into a taxi that just stops for you in the street.
  • Book a taxi by phone or by going to the taxi office. Tell them what time you want picking up and ask for the driver's name.
  • When the taxi arrives, ask for the diver's name and the name of the taxi company.
  • If you can, it's better to sit in the back behind the driver.
  • Have your door key ready so you can get into the house quickly.
  • Ask the taxi driver to wait outside until you get into the house.

Stay safe when using cash machines

  • When using a cash machine, make sure no-one's standing too close to you.
  • Don't show or give your PIN number to anyone. Don't write it down.
  • Only take out enough money for what you need. Make sure you put your money away, safe and out of sight.
  • Keep some money in your wallet or purse and some in your pocket.
  • If you can, go with friends or someone you can trust.
  • If you're using a cash machine at night, use one in a brightly lit area or one inside the bank.

Find out more about South Yorkshire Police's crime and prevention advice.