This National Stalking Awareness Month, we’re highlighting staying safe on the street.
Street harassment, or unwanted comments, gestures, and actions forced on a stranger in a public place without their consent, can happen to anyone at any time. It can take many forms, including catcalling, following, and threatening harm. Street harassment is a crime and no one, in any circumstance, deserves to experience it.
If you’re harassed on the street or think you’re being followed, here are some suggestions to keep yourself safe:
Phone a friend. If you know a friend is nearby, call or text them to meet you. Sometimes just the presence of another person is enough to scare a harasser off.
Go somewhere public. Enter any open business, apartment lobby, or public safety service like a firehouse, especially if it’s crowded. This may discourage the person from following you and gives you the opportunity to ask an employee for help.
Use technology. Understand the safety devices already built into your phone and download one of many easy to use apps. This Wired article has some suggestions.
Don’t go home or to school. For many, your first instinct will be to go somewhere where you’re known and feel safe. However, this gives your harasser a way to find you again. Make sure they’re gone before going anywhere personal to you.