You can download a copy of the joint South Australia Police/Home and Community Care (HACC) Personal safety leaflet and the South Australia Police Personal safety booklet or obtain a copy from the Community Programs Section at your local police station.
Here you'll find tips to keep safe and secure when:
If you are concerned about the safety and security of children look at the tips for kids and young people.
- Keep alert and walk confidently. Walk in well-lit populated areas, especially at night.
- If possible, walk on the side of the road where you face oncoming traffic.
- If you regularly walk alone vary your route and time and, if possible, carry a personal safety alarm or mobile phone.
- Avoid walking near overgrown bushes, trees and blind corners.
- Let someone know where you are going and the time you will return.
- Carry your bags securely and on the side furthest from the road. Never let the bag or strap hang loosely.
- Don't carry more cash or valuables than you need, and don't show off expensive items such as mobile phones or iPods.
- Be wary if someone in a car stops and asks you for directions. Don't carry on a conversation with them.
- If wearing headphones, keep the volume down so that you can hear what is happening around you.
- Sign your bank or credit card as soon as you receive it and keep it in a safe place.
- Memorise your personal identification number (PIN). Don't write it down to keep with you.
- If your card is lost, report it immediately to your financial institution.
- Avoid using Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in isolated or dark locations.
- Don't let anyone see your PIN when withdrawing money.
- Don't count money in view of other people.
- If you have already keyed in your details at an ATM but then feel unsafe, hit CANCEL and remove your card and/or receipt.
- When using your credit card read the transaction receipt before signing.
- When using EFTPOS, don't let your card out of your sight.
- Check timetables before you set off so you don't have to wait too long at transport stops.
- While waiting, stand in well-lit areas near other people, if possible.
- When travelling alone, sit near others or near the driver.
- If you feel concerned about the behaviour of other people, sit near the driver. If the behaviour is offensive or illegal, tell the driver and contact police.
- If you are being harassed or assaulted, complain loudly to draw attention to yourself.
- Always put your personal belongings where you can see them.
- If possible, arrange to be collected at your destination.
- If you feel concerned about getting off at your stop or are suspicious of another person, tell the driver.
- Park in a well-lit and highly visible area.
- Always have your car keys in your hand when approaching your vehicle.
- Make sure your car is serviced regularly.
- Consider joining a 24 hour roadside assistance service.
- Make sure you have enough fuel to get to your destinations and home again.
- Keep the windows up and doors locked.
- When driving alone do not stop to help motorists who appear to be having difficulties.
- Never pick up hitchhikers.
- Do not respond to aggressive behaviour from other drivers. Stay calm and avoid eye contact.
- If you have an accident, it is not always necessary to leave the vehicle. If in doubt exchange particulars through a partly opened window with your doors locked.
If your car should break down in an isolated area:
- Activate the hazard lights.
- Raise the bonnet.
- Sit inside the car with the doors locked until help arrives.
- Never go with strangers. Stay with your car.
- When someone does come to your car, ask them to call for assistance if you haven't already done so.
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Carry a street directory, torch, pen and paper in your glove-box at all times.
- Plan at the beginning of the night how you are going to get home and leave yourself enough money to do so.
- Consider pre-booking a taxi or get information about late bus services (metropolitan and regional) from www.adelaidemetro.com.au or free call 1800 182 160.
- If you leave the party, always tell your friends where you are going and who with.
- Don't get into a car with a person who has been drinking alcohol or taking drugs. Only travel in a vehicle where the driver is known to you.
- Take your turn to stay sober for a night so there is someone to keep an eye on the rest of the group.
- Keep yourself safe. Have water or a soft drink between alcoholic drinks.
- Never leave your drink unattended. If a stranger offers to buy you a drink, go with them while they are buying it.
- Drugs are illegal. Do not use or accept any illegal substances from strangers or friends.
- Never mix alcohol with drugs.
- Avoid hitchhiking.
- Always tell someone your intended itinerary, especially if you are going bushwalking or camping.
- Keep in regular contact with friends and relatives as much as possible. Advise them if your travel arrangements change.
- Don't carry around any more cash than you need. Use accommodation security boxes if available.
- Keep travellers cheques, passport, credit cards and money separately. Do not sign cheques unless you are about to cash them. Never leave these items unsecured in your accommodation.
- Leave luggage in a safe location and keep it locked at all times. Never leave bags unattended.
- If you stop to help another vehicle, take care.
- Tell family or friends of your travel plans and intended route.
- Check the conditions of outback roads before leaving the nearest major town.
- Take care when driving vehicles on unsealed roads. Reduce your speed.
- Note where petrol stations are en route.
- Take frequent rest breaks and change drivers regularly.
- Carry extra supplies of water and food, and extra spare tyres and tools.
- Hire appropriate emergency communication equipment eg satellite phones.
- Obey road closure signs and keep to the main roads.
- In an emergency, stay with your vehicle.
For more information on driving safely in the South Australian Outback call the SA Visitor and Travel Centre on 1300 655 276 or visit www.southaustralia.com
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