10 Essential Safety Tips for Women Walking Alone
Staying Safe and Confident on Solo Walks
Walking provides great exercise and can be an opportunity to clear your mind. However, when women walk alone, there are safety considerations to keep in mind. At Lorain County Women's Health, your wellbeing is our top priority. We've put together these 10 essential tips to help you stay safe when walking solo, especially as we move into the warmer summer months.
Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Don't get absorbed in your phone, music, or podcasts while walking. Keep your head up and frequently scan all around you - behind, in front, and to each side. Being inattentive can make you an easy target.
Avoid isolated areas like deserted parks, parking lots, alleys, and any place that isn't well-populated. Stick to open, well-lit routes whenever possible. There is safety in crowds and busy public spaces.
Walk with confidence and purpose. Make assertive movements and keep your head held high. Appearing meek or distracted can make you seem like an easier target to potential attackers or harassers. Squaring your shoulders and looking alert often helps deter bad actors.
Consider carrying a portable alarm device or downloading a mobile safety app. Many apps can sound an ear-piercing alarm or immediately notify emergency contacts with your location if you feel threatened. Vest-style personal alarms can be worn discreetly and accessed by pulling a cord.
Don't be afraid to make a scene if you sense danger. Loudly blowing a whistle, yelling "Help!" or "Fire!", and waving your arms draws maximum attention and can scare off potential threats. Acting meek in a risky situation may only embolden an assailant.
Vary your daily routine frequently so your walking patterns and schedules are harder to track and less predictable to potential stalkers.
Always tell trusted friends, family members or co-workers your planned walking route and expected return time before heading out alone. Check in when you're back.
Carry pepper spray, a loud whistle, or other self-defense tools, and take a self-defense training course to learn how to properly use protective equipment if attacked. Practice ahead of time so you're comfortable deploying your tools.
If walking alone at night is unavoidable, stick to main roads and wear reflective or light-colored clothing so drivers can clearly see you. Darkness provides more cover for potential attackers.
Trust your gut instinct. If a situation makes you feel uneasy or unsafe for any reason, leave immediately or seek assistance from others around you. Don't second-guess your intuition.
Walking solo has benefits for mental and physical health, but always prioritize your personal safety. Stay alert and aware, prepare for potential threats ahead of time, and trust your instincts to avoid dangerous situations. Your wellbeing is a top priority at Lorain County Women's Health - we hope these tips help you stay safe!
