Here are the categories and safe actions for each situation:
Doug is walking in an empty neighborhood and gets this feeling that he is being followed. He’s not sure if he’s just being silly.
Category: Community
Safe action: Trust your instincts and find a well-populated area or seek help from a nearby establishment or person.
Laura is creating an online profile for a support group and is asked to create an online name that others will see.
Category: Internet and phone
Safe action: Use a generic or non-identifying online name that doesn't reveal personal information or details about yourself.
Maddie is home alone and someone calls for her parents.
Category: Home
Safe action: Refrain from revealing that she is home alone and inform the caller that her parents are unavailable at the moment.
Liz is getting into her car and is suddenly attacked from behind.
Category: Community
Safe action: Carry a personal safety device, such as a whistle or pepper spray, to quickly alert others and deter the attacker.
Peter is walking home from school and notices that one of the houses looks like it’s been broken into.
Category: Community
Safe action: Contact the local authorities or inform a trusted adult about the suspicious activity.
John hears his phone get a text while he’s driving to the mall.
Category: Internet and phone
Safe action: Avoid using or checking your phone while driving to maintain focus and prevent distractions.
Samantha gets a message from someone on a social networking site that makes her feel uncomfortable.
Category: Internet and phone
Safe action: Block or ignore the person, and report the message or user to the social networking site for further investigation.
Nate gets out of the car to fill it with gas. He’s not sure where to leave his wallet and keys.
Category: Community
Safe action: Keep the wallet and keys on your person, such as in a secure pocket or a small bag that can be carried while refilling the gas.
Additional tip for maintaining personal safety:
Be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated or poorly lit areas, especially at night.