Nights Out

Like any bustling urban area, you need to keep your wits about you. Do that and you my friend will be sorted! Take a minute to read and inwardly digest this little lot... many are common sense and may be things you already do.

Here are some simple steps on how to stay safe. Making yourself safer doesn't mean changing your entire lifestyle, personality or wardrobe, and it doesn't mean never going out at all.

Protect yourself from being considered an easy target

When Out and About

Some safety advice for when you are out and about around Tayside

• Keep bags closed, zipped and buckled. If someone grabs it, let it go. Your valuables can be replaced.

• Don't be flash with your cash, phone, laptop or MP3 player as these all show thieves you are worth robbing. Instead, disguise your laptop by carrying it in a rucksack and spread your valuables around your body – keep your phone hidden, your house keys in your jeans pocket and money in your coat or jacket.

• Robbers are after an easy target - walk in groups at night, travel by taxi or stay over with friends, your safety is worth more than the cab fare home!

• keep cards and chequebooks separately - note down your card details so you can cancel them quickly.

• Consider using a discreet ring tone or vibrate alert when you're out and about.

• If your phone rings, check to see who's around you before you answer and keep calls brief.

• Remember, if chatting on the phone or listening to your MP3 player, you won't hear someone come up behind you. Your hearing is your best defence.

• Walk confidently, be aware of what's going on at all times and always keep to well-lit main streets.

• Call your network or Immobilise Phone Crime on 08701 123 123 to get your stolen or lost phone blocked.

Advice when using cashpoints

• When using cashpoints, go in daylight or with a mate if you can and avoid getting cash out alone if you've been drinking.

• Look around before inserting your card and always shield the keyboard.

• Only take out what you need and don't count your money in full view of strangers.

• Always put your money and card away before leaving.