by Barbara Thorp, article contributor for OZ Free Classifieds

It is a sad fact that personal safety is of the greatest importance these days. Unfortunately, help is not always to be found, so taking charge of your own personal safety is the first step to keeping yourself out of danger. There are a number of personal devices that can be found in various stores who supply security cameras, alarms and appliances, that help increase your personal safety, but simple common sense behaviour is the best place to start.

Hang your purse over your shoulder and across your body and hold it to your chest so it cannot be snatched. If you cannot do that, be prepared to let go of your purse immediately if someone grabs it, so that you will not be pushed to the ground and injured. Personal safety alarms can be purchased from most outlets, but I bought one from Avon, at avon.com.au, which I have been carrying with me for the last four years. Thankfully, I have never had to use it, and it gives me security when I am out at night.

If you are walking along the street and someone tries to attack you, shout in a very loud voice, ‘No!’ and if there are people nearby, make them aware that you are in danger, so they do not misinterpret your situation. Make it clear you are being menaced by shouting ‘Call the police now! - dial triple zero.’ There are really no off-limit areas around Melbourne - all the popular tourist spots and night time activities are often busy and well policed. It is advisable to avoid poorly lit streets and parks at night though. OzFreeOnline.com has classified pages that have many categories where you may find the security system you need for your home.

Always follow your intuition. If there is someone making you nervous, do whatever you can to avoid them and if it is apparent that they are stalking you, go to the nearest shop or populated place and if you have a mobile phone call 000. Watch the person and make sure that you can describe their clothes and general appearance easily to the police when you are reporting the incident.

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