Protect Yourself from a Stranger
A stranger is following you on the street? Don't know what to do? Read this article for instructions on protecting yourself from a stranger.
Steps
- Identify the stranger. Try to look at him while still walking fast. Is it a man or a woman? What color of hair and skin? How tall? How old (approx.)? If you get in a confrontation with him, this information could be useful at the police station.
- Go into a store if possible Go into a store that has CCTV, or has more than 5 employees working. If you do so, he may stop following you. If he doesn't stop, then even if he approaches you, you will be safe because of CCTV or the employees.
- If he goes into the store, look for an employee. Tell him/her that a stranger is following you and you don't feel safe.
- If there are no stores around, look for crowded public places. These places can be metro stations, police stations, or some place with security.
- Do not let him follow you to your home, work, etc. If he does, then you may get into serious trouble. This could be a killer, rapist or a thief. Think what would happen if a thief or killer follows you to your home.
- If you really need to go home, then use some alternative routes that may confuse him. Never go to a dead-end street. Always prefer a route where people can see you.
- Call the police. Go to a crowded public place and call the police if you have no choice left. Never ask someone for for a cellphone. If you have a cellphone, use it. If you don't have one, search for a security guard and tell them what's happening. When you call, tell the police that a stranger is following you and you are at the metro station, etc. Wait there until the police arrives.
- Run. Never try to hide - it's too risky. If you run, he won't be able to run behind you because that would look suspicious. A 10-year-old boy is running and a 30-year-old man is following him running. Wouldn't you call the police? If you run fast enough, he will soon lose your.When you arrive home, call the police.
- Keep your distance and cry for help if needed.
- If he tries to talk to you, refuse what he says, being very clear.
- If he touches you and you don't want him to touch you, shout "Leave me alone!", "Help!", or something similar that may attract attention.
- If he hits you, then you have the right to defend yourself. Kick him in the groin, poke his eyes, or hit his nose hard. When he falls or when he stops for a moment, stop attacking and run away.
Tips
- Carry a pepper spray.
- Learn some self-defense art like karate, taekwondo, or aikido.
- Always choose routes you really know.
Warnings
- Never choose a route that you haven't used before.
