If the person is following you in a vehicle, turn around and go back the way you came. [2] X Research source That way, the person has to make a quick turn to find you again and will be easy to notice. If you think you’re being followed but aren’t sure who it is or where they are, trust your instincts and immediately find somewhere safe to go, such as a crowded store, police station, or area with a lot of foot traffic. [3] X Expert Source Saul Jaeger, MSPolice Captain, Mountain View Police Department Expert Interview. 21 February 2020.
If there isn’t a public place that you can go inside, keep moving so your attacker doesn’t catch up. Learn the hours of the businesses in the area where you normally walk so you know where you can go in case you’re followed late at night.
As you’re looking at the person, make mental notes of their appearance so you’re able to report them.
While you’re calling, remember to watch where you’re going and pay attention to your surroundings. [7] X Expert Source Saul Jaeger, MSPolice Captain, Mountain View Police Department Expert Interview. 21 February 2020.
It might feel embarrassing if you yell and the person wasn’t actually following you, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Loud noises might be enough to deter your attacker since they don’t want to draw any attention to themselves.
Remember, your safety is more important than what’s in your bag. If you truly feel like you’re in danger, you can always drop your material possessions now and replace them later.
Only defend yourself if you absolutely need to. Avoid resisting a robbery if the person has a weapon. [11] X Research source
Most newer vehicles lock your doors automatically once you start driving. Lock your doors right away when you get in your vehicle so you don’t have to worry about it later on.
Never pull over if you’re being followed by an unknown vehicle, even if they flash their lights at you. You might be tempted to watch the other vehicle in your rear-view mirror, but focus on what’s in front of you so you aren’t distracted.
Avoid going down remote roads without a lot of traffic since it gives the person following you a chance to attack.
If you have a passenger, ask them to write things down for you so you can focus on driving.
You can also call the police while you’re driving so they can come tail the vehicle that’s following you to see if it poses a threat.
Avoid going back home right away, or else you may lead the attacker there. [19] X Research source If you don’t know where the closest police station is or if you don’t have enough gas to get there, pull into a busy gas station or well-lit parking lot and stay in your vehicle.
Turn on your emergency flasher lights as well to let other people know there’s something wrong.
Maintain good posture to show that you’re alert and ready for action in case something goes wrong. This might be enough to deter an attacker from targeting you in the first place.
Let another person know that you think you’re being followed and ask if you can walk with them for a little while. People are less likely to attack if you’re in a group. Avoid going home if you’re being followed since you could lead the attacker there.
Avoid wearing headphones or playing loud music if you’re walking alone. Make brief eye contact with strangers as they approach you. That way, you convey the message that you can identify them later on if they attack. [25] X Research source
Park in well-lit areas so you’re able to see other people easily and to deter someone from breaking into your vehicle Look for exits if you’re in an underground or enclosed lot so you know where you can escape if you feel threatened.
