Safety Planning

Common safety planning techniques which are important in order to help you keep you and your loved ones safe in the household, online and out and about in the streets.

The content available on this website is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For free legal or emotional advice and support pertaining to your specific situation, please contact Victim Support Malta (21228333)

What measures can I take to keep safe on the street?

Keep a low amount of cash and avoid carrying debit/credit cards you don’t need.
Whenever possible, avoid travelling alone.
Avoid walking during the night, and if it is a must, try to be accompanied by someone.
Avoid wearing expensive jewellery while walking in the street.
Whilst using public transport, try to sit close to the exit.
Put wallets and purses out of sight and hold bags close to you.
Whilst traveling by car, always lock the doors.
Avoid use of alcohol as it is frequently a factor in sexual assaults.
Meet new people in public places.
In case of immediate danger, shout “fire,” not “help” or “rape” to attract a crowd and surprise the attacker.

What measures can I take to keep my house secure?

Change all locks when you move into a new house and when you lose the keys.
All doors and windows should be locked at all times during day and night.
Fit a door viewer to be able to know who you are opening the door for.
Ask for specific details before opening the door to strangers.
Fit a door chain/limiter.
Fit 3 locking points locks at the door with special locks fitted to the top and bottom.
Never leave windows or door keys in their locks.
Fit sensor lighting in front of your door.
Install an alarm and CCTV camera.
Fit double glazing windows.
Number your house clearly so that civil protection will find your house quickly in case immediate help is necessary.

What measures can I take to keep safe online?

Never disclose passwords.
Change passwords every now and then.
Delete the history of the computer through the web browsers 'settings', if you do not want anyone to know you accessed this website.
Log out of every account that you use.
Always delete history after using a public computer.
Install trustworthy protection software.
Ask a professional to inspect your computer to check for spyware and viruses.
Protect wireless internet.
Never post anything online that can shame you or others.
Remember that any posted information is then public information.
Record and report any cyber stalking.
Monitor children while browsing the internet.