What to Do If You Feel Like You Are Being Followed: Practical Steps for Personal Safety
The sensation of being followed can be unsettling and frightening. Whether you're walking home at night or notice someone lingering suspiciously nearby, knowing how to respond is crucial for your safety. Here are practical steps to take if you ever find yourself in such a situation, drawing from self-defense principles like those taught in Krav Maga.
1. Trust Your Instincts
Your first line of defense is your instinct. If something feels off, trust that feeling. Awareness of your surroundings is a key component of self-defense taught in Krav Maga, and it applies directly here. Acknowledging the feeling that you might be followed is the first step towards taking action.
2. Change Your Behavior
Alter your path or behavior to confirm if you are being followed. You might cross the street, stop and look at a window, or tie your shoelace. If the person mirrors your actions, it’s possible that you are being followed. Avoid heading straight to your home or a secluded area.
3. Stay in Public Areas
If you confirm that someone is following you, try to stay in well-lit, populated areas. Being in public increases your safety, as it deters most followers from taking any overt actions. Look for places like cafes, stores, or any busy public area where you can stay until it is safe or until you can get help.
4. Go to a Safe Place
If you're near a location you trust, such as a friend's house or a familiar business, head there. Letting someone know about your situation can provide an immediate layer of safety. Businesses often have security measures in place and can also call for help if needed.
5. Avoid Confrontation
Krav Maga teaches how to defend oneself, but avoiding a confrontation is always preferable. Do not confront the follower directly if you can avoid it. Instead, focus on deterring them through your actions by seeking help or making it obvious that you are aware of their presence.
6. Use Your Phone Wisely
While it’s important to avoid distractions, if you believe you are being followed, using your phone can be beneficial. You can pretend to make a call, which might deter a follower. However, actually calling someone, like a friend or the police, and clearly stating your location and situation where the follower can hear, can also act as a deterrent.
7. Record Details
Try to remember or discreetly record details about the person following you—what they look like, what they’re wearing, and any other distinctive features. This information can be crucial for the police to help you and prevent future incidents.
8. Learn Self-Defense
Knowing basic self-defense techniques provides confidence and could be vital in a dangerous situation. Training in a martial art like Krav Maga equips you with the physical and mental tools to handle threatening situations effectively.
Conclusion
Feeling like you are being followed can be a nerve-wracking experience, but knowing how to handle the situation can significantly improve your chances of staying safe. Remember, your safety is paramount, and taking these steps can help you protect yourself effectively. Always be prepared, stay aware, and don’t hesitate to act if your safety is at risk.
