Personal Safety
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Oxford is a relatively safe city, but unfortunately attacks do occur. In the last few years two Merton students have been attacked. If possible don't walk alone through Oxford at night. Walk in groups, cycle, make use of the relatively cheap taxis. If you find yourself really stuck you can always ring the JCR Welfare Reps who will be more than willing to come and rescue you!
The Safety Bus is back! If you're ever need a lift late at night from anywhere, you can call the bus on 07714 445050 (9pm 'til 3am Monday to Saturdays; 9pm 'til 1am on Sundays). For just £1, they will take you to anywhere within the Oxford ring road. Priority will be given to those travelling alone and other vulnerable individuals. Further details are available from OUSU and the Oxford Brookes Student Union, who jointly run the service.
Free personal attack alarms are available to all members of the JCR and can be obtained from the JCR Welfare Reps. Carry it and your mobile phone everywhere.
The following general safety advice is taken from the Home Office:
- You will be safest in bright, well-lit and busy areas. Try and avoid dark alleyways like Magpie Lane, use large, well lit streets like Oriel Square.
- Try to look and act confident - look like you know where you are going and walk tall.
- You might like to spread your valuables around your body. For example, keep your phone in your bag, your keys in your trouser pocket and your money in your jacket.
- If someone tries to take something from you, it may be better to let them take it rather than to get into a confrontation and risk injury.
- You can use reasonable force in self-defence. You are allowed to protect yourself with something you are carrying anyway (for example, keys or a can of deodorant), but you may not carry a weapon.
- If you decide to defend yourself, be aware that your attacker might be stronger than you, or may take what you are using in self-defence and use it against you. It is often better just to shout loudly and run away.
- Shout 'fire' rather than 'help' - it can get more results.
- Try not to be conspicuous about the valuables you are carrying. Talking on your mobile phone, carrying a laptop, or showing your friend your new gold ring all shows thieves that you are worth robbing.
- When out walking or jogging, you should not listen to a personal stereo through headphones, so you can stay more alert to your surroundings.
More information about personal safety can be found at:
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