Section G - To avoid being knocked down in the street
1. I always use pedestrian crossings and I always use the Green Cross Code.
(Editor: The Green Cross Code does not seem to be used any longer - clicking here will take you to a Road Safety page)
2. I always use Zebra crossings or any other pedestrian crossings but I always remember that a lot of drivers don't bother to stop at crossings so I always keep looking.
3. I have difficulty locating sound and so I always look round very carefully.
4. I watch out for roller skaters/ roller bladers and other fast, silent movers like bicycles, tricycles, skateboards and scooters, not only on the road but also on the pavement.
5. I never walk on the edge of the pavement. First it is dangerous and second it is usually the noisiest part of the pavement.
6. When I am in a one-way street, I always look both ways in case somebody is driving the wrong way.
7. I try to be more observant not only in front but also behind as this is a blind spot.
8. One contributor said, "Our lives are at stake and we have to be really careful. It is our responsibility."
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Section H - In the dark (Out of doors)
1. Where possible I choose to walk in streets which are well lit.
2. I walk in the middle of the pavement.
3. I sling my handbag across my body or wear it under my coat. (Editors’ note: Some people disagree with this as you may be less likely to come to harm if you give a mugger your bag without a struggle.)
4. I have my door keys in my pocket and I do not get them out until I get to my door.
5. I get my keys ready just before I get home so I don’t have to stand outside the door looking for them.
6. I have attended a talk on safety at the local police station.
7. I carry a small pocket torch. It can be useful if I need it to see someone’s face to lipread and also for finding keyholes in the dark. Before switching the torch on I say something like “I can hear you better if I can see your face.” (I try to keep the beam out of their eyes)
8. One person said, “I always take a walking stick with me even though I don’t really need one. It makes me feel a bit more confident if I have to go out on my own after dark.
9. One person said, “I always try to look as if I’m confident - I read somewhere that thugs are more likely to target people who don’t look confident.”
10. Although I can’t hear on a phone I always carry a mobile phone with me, out of sight. If I feel I need to I can call my son or a friend. I’ve never had to use it, but it makes me feel safer just having it with me.”