Out & about

Norfolk is a pretty safe place to live, and you shouldn't worry too much about being robbed or attacked when you are out and about.

The problem with criminals who rob or attack people is that there is no way of knowing exactly where or when they might pick on their next victim.

There are some things you can do to make it less likely that you will become a victim of crime:

• Always pay attention to what's going on around you. Make it look like you know where you're going, and that you are confident in your surroundings
• Try not to make any valuables like jewellery or mobile phones too obvious - it might make a criminal think that you are worth robbing
• Stick to bright, well-lit, busy places - you're safer there. Never walk along dark alleys or footpaths alone at night
• Always tell someone where you're going, what route you're taking and how long you think you'll be in case anything goes wrong. If you change your plans or you are going to be later back than you thought don't forget to let someone know
• If you use a wheelchair, keep your things beside you where you can see them, rather than behind you
• Don't keep all your belongings in one place. For example, keep your phone in your bag, your house keys in your pocket and your money in your jacket. If one of these items get stolen you won't have lost all of your valuables
• If someone does try to take something from you, it is better to let them take it rather than to get into a fight and risk getting hurt. it's often better to just shout or scream loudly and run away rather than trying to defend yourself
• If you decide to defend yourself, remember that your attacker might be stronger than you or that they might have a mate waiting around the corner
• Shouting 'fire' often gets people's attention better than shouting 'help'.

 

If someone has stolen something from you, attacked you or threatened to attack you, you should report it to the police.