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Tell someone where you are going. Plan your travel route. Charge your cell phone. Invest in a whistle. Carry a small flashlight. Find another means of transportation if possible.
Before you leave home, let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back. You might also want to send them a quick text when you arrive at your destination. If they don't receive your text, or you don't arrive home when expected, they can check to make sure everything is OK. You can also download an app such as FindMyFriends that allows you to share your location with others, as well as find friends nearby. Several of these apps also contain ways to quickly broadcast your location in an emergency situation. By knowing exactly how you are getting to your destination, you will reduce your travel time and reduce the chances of getting lost in an unfamiliar area. You will also feel and appear confident, which reduces your chance of being approached by troublemakers. Always have a fully charged cell phone with you. If you are in trouble, you can quickly call for help. You might also need your phone to use mapping or other functions to get you to your destination safely. A simple whistle is often the easiest way to chase off troublemakers. Pepper spray, which will incapacitate an attacker, is also an option if it is legal in your area, but make sure you check that it definitely is legal first before you bring one with you. The last thing you want to happen when out is to be searched by a police officer then arrested for possessing an offensive weapon. Pepper spray needs a little practice to use correctly. Get comfortable using your thumb to push the button so you can hold the canister securely in the palm of your hand with the other four fingers. Learn how to unlock the safety switch quickly. Practice a few times with your canister to learn how far away you can stand and still reach your target. Some sprays can reach up to ten feet. Keep a mini flashlight on your keychain, where it will always be with you. It will provide light in extra dark areas and give you more confidence. Or learn to use the built-in torch on your phone. You can download a flashlight app if your phone doesn't have a built-in option. If a situation is dangerous or uncomfortable for you, find another way to get home. This includes public transportation, getting a taxi, or calling a friend to drive you home. Make sure you are waiting in a well-lit area.