Tips on Personal Safety for Teens from the U.S. Army Adapted from the “Hoo-ah for Health” U.S. Army Site

Stay Safe with Personal Safety Skills Teens are the victims of property and personal crimes more than any other group. They are at risk because they go out more frequently, often at night, and tend to overlook personal safety rules. Law enforcement authorities estimate that up to 90% of all crime could be prevented if people use basic safety measures.

Street Smarts Avoid walking alone, but if you must, walk confidently. Plan routes in advance; choose busy streets, brightly lit places. Don't take short cuts through isolated areas (i.e., alleys, parks). Never hitchhike. Travel light and wear comfortable shoes so you can move quickly. If necessary, note the location of public places where people and help are available. Look and listen, be alert.

If you’re being followed Let the stalker know that you are aware of him or her. Seek help from people or find open businesses; switch directions; cross the street. If you are scared or attacked, yell "FIRE" instead of "help" or "rape"--you'll get better response. Don't hesitate to make a scene--it could scare off a would-be attacker. Call the police.

Safety at School Report suspicious people in or around the school immediately. Avoid trouble-makers; walk away from fights or problems. Report any weapons or vandalism you see. Work with other students and faculty to make your school crime-free.

Safety at home Keep doors and windows locked while at home; deadbolt locks are best. Never hide spare keys outside. Don't open the door for strangers or unordered deliveries; instead, talk through a locked door or window. Never let someone know you're alone. Never enter your house or garage if anything looks suspicious; go to a neighbor's and call the police.

Transportation safety On public transportation, have your fare ready; use well-lit, busy stops; sit near driver or by a group. If danger arises, attempt to move closer to the driver; alert driver of the problem. If driving lock your car when you get in and out; park in well-lit, busy areas; check in and around your car before entering. If car breaks down use flashers; tie a white cloth to the door; stay inside locked car; through slightly open window ask anyone who stops to call for help.

Reduce your risks Criminals look for people who are scared, confused or vulnerable. Protect yourself by being alert, observant and acting confident. Have a strategy for escaping or seeking help. Don't be embarrassed to make a scene. Don't be obvious with expensive jewelry or clothing or large amounts of money.

Reduce your risks Watch Your Temper. Your feelings may be strong but you can control how you act. An out-of-control temper can lead to conflict and, in turn, violence. Learn to control your temper. Remember to stay calm and tackle the problem, not the person.

Reduce your risks Guard Your Possessions. If you only carry a wallet, keep it in an inside or front pocket. Hold your backpack or purse close to your body with the flap inward; never leave open or unattended. Don't put any ID on keys. Lock your bike; engrave it with an ID number; register it. Remember--possessions are insignificant compared to the value of your life.

Reduce your risks-steer clear of gangs Gangs claim to offer protection, but what they really offer is crime, violence and a serious threat to personal safety. Avoid anyone associated with a gang and areas where gangs hang out. Don't wear colors or use symbols associated with gangs--you might be considered a member. If pressured to join a gang, tell a teacher, parent, or other responsible adult.

Reduce your risks-avoid weapons State laws on gun possession vary, but weapons are dangerous. Statistics show that a weapon carried for "self-defense" often falls into the wrong hands and can put anyone's life in danger. Steer clear of people who say they carry a weapon. If you see someone with a gun or knife at school, report it to school authorities immediately.

Reduce your risks- avoid alcohol and other drugs Alcohol and other drugs are closely related to crime. Using or possessing drugs is a crime. Use of alcohol and other drugs often contributes to loss of control, which can lead to violence, accidents or taking unnecessary risks. Say "no" to drugs and leave any situation where alcohol or other drugs are used.

Reduce your risks-Date with Care Know your date. Avoid being alone with a date; go out on double dates, in a group, or to public events (i.e., movies, fairs). Avoid situations where alcohol or other drugs are used; they cloud people's judgment. Don't ride with a driver who has been drinking or taking drugs. Carry money for phone calls or a taxi.

Reduce your risk-protect yourself from assault An assault can happen almost any place, any time. Reduce your risk by constantly practicing personal safety. Avoid risky situations at work, home, and socially. If you sense danger, do anything necessary to escape: run, yell, kick, make a scene. Look and listen--always be observant and alert.

Reduce your risk- protect yourself from rape Practice good home security and street safety habits to reduce the risk of rape. At least one-third of rape victims knew the attacker as a date, friend or acquaintance. If unwanted sexual advances are made, clearly assert your position. If you feel uneasy, trust your sense of danger; leave the situation immediately; tell an adult you trust.

Reduce your risks-Get help from adults No matter where you go, when or with whom, always let someone know your plans. Introduce your dates to your Family. Report anything that could put you or someone else in danger. Team up with adults to help make your school, home, and community safe from violence and crime.

Bibliography Army National Guard and the Office of the Chief, Army “My Hoo-ah for Health” http://www.hooah4health.com/4Life/hooah4teens/safetyskills.htm 2009.