If someone is being followed in the community, both the person being followed and a member of the neighborhood watch can take specific actions to ensure safety. Here’s a breakdown of what each should do:
Stay Calm: The person should try to remain calm and composed to think clearly.
Change Direction: They should alter their route, such as crossing the street or turning down a different path, to see if the follower continues to follow.
Head to a Safe Place: Move towards a well-lit, populated area, such as a store, restaurant, or a place where there are other people.
Make Eye Contact: If safe, they can make eye contact with the person following them to show awareness.
Use Their Phone: They should call a friend or family member to inform them of the situation. If they feel threatened, they should call the police and provide their location and details about the follower.
Stay Aware: They should remain aware of their surroundings and avoid distractions like looking at their phone.
Seek Help: If in a public place, they can approach staff or bystanders for assistance.
Document Details: If safe, they should take note of the follower’s appearance, clothing, and behavior to report to authorities later.
Avoid Isolated Areas: They should steer clear of secluded or poorly lit areas.
Trust Their Instincts: If they feel uncomfortable, they should take action to protect themselves.
Stay Calm and Listen: The watch member should listen carefully to the details provided by the person being followed.
Gather Information: Ask for specific details, such as the location, description of the follower, and the direction they are heading.
Assess the Situation: Determine if the situation seems urgent or if it can be handled with a more measured response.
Contact Authorities: If the situation appears threatening, the watch member should immediately contact local law enforcement and provide them with the gathered information.
Provide Support: If safe to do so, the watch member can go to the location of the person being followed to provide support and ensure their safety.
Stay in Communication: Keep the person being followed updated on what actions are being taken and encourage them to stay on the line if they feel comfortable.
Encourage Safety Measures: Remind the person being followed to follow the safety steps outlined above, such as moving to a public place and staying aware of their surroundings.
Document the Incident: After the situation is resolved, the watch member should document the incident, including the time, location, and details of the follower, to report to local authorities if necessary.
By having clear protocols in place for both individuals being followed and neighborhood watch members, communities can enhance safety and support for residents.
Preventing an attack in a situation where someone feels they are being followed involves a combination of awareness, quick thinking, and strategic actions. Here are some tips on how to prevent being attacked and considerations regarding heading home:
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Always be mindful of who is around you. Avoid distractions like looking at your phone while walking.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your gut feelings and take action to protect yourself.
Change Your Route: If you notice someone following you, change your route to see if they continue to follow. This can help you assess the situation.
Head to a Public Place: Move towards a well-lit, populated area, such as a store, restaurant, or busy street. This increases your safety and makes it harder for someone to attack.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Do not head home or to secluded places where you could be vulnerable. Instead, stay in areas with other people around.
Make Eye Contact: If safe, make eye contact with the person following you. This can sometimes deter them, as it shows you are aware of their presence.
Use Your Phone: Call a friend or family member to let them know what’s happening. If you feel threatened, call the police.
Stay Calm and Confident: Walk with purpose and confidence. Appearing calm can deter potential attackers.
Have a Safety Plan: Know the locations of safe places nearby and have a plan for what to do if you feel threatened.
Consider Self-Defense Training: Taking self-defense classes can empower you and provide you with skills to protect yourself if necessary.
Avoid Going Home: If you feel you are being followed, it is generally not advisable to head directly home. Doing so can lead an attacker to your personal space, making you more vulnerable.
Seek Safety First: Instead, head to a public place where there are other people. This can provide a buffer and increase your safety.
Assess the Situation: If you reach a safe location and the follower is still present or you feel threatened, consider calling the police or asking for help from bystanders.
Plan for Future Situations: After the incident, consider discussing safety measures with friends or family and developing a plan for future situations.
By being proactive and aware, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of being attacked in situations where they feel threatened.