Here are some basic top tips to help you keep you staying safe and secure when travelling, either for work or social purposes.

Before setting off:

. Plan and Prepare: Before you leave to go out, plan your journey and the transport that you will be using. Consider what you might need in the way of money/cards and the time you’ll be home. Notify someone of your planned journey, who you are meeting and how you are going to get home. Consider whether you can travel home with a friend and ensure that you are aware of the time of the last bus/train.

. A simple thing - but try to remember to make sure your phone is fully charged before you go out so that you are able to make calls if you need to.

. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, stay on well-lit streets and try to stick to routes you know best. If you are not familiar with an area or route, make sure you have planned your journey beforehand using street view and public transport timetables. That way you won’t be standing looking at your phone in unfamiliar areas trying to find your way around.

. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Avoid chatting on your mobile phone or listening to music on your headphones, as this can distract you from your surroundings or any potential danger signs.

. If you are carrying a bag, keep it close to your body and keep your valuables out of sight and secure.

.If you are out at night, try to stick to busy streets where you will be near other people. Avoid dangerous spots such as poorly-lit areas, deserted parks or quiet isolated alleyways.