How to walk home safely at night: 12 practical tips

Updated 2026-10-25 · 5 minute read

Most walks home are completely fine. These habits are about feeling in control, and about making sure that if something does go wrong, the right people know fast.

Before you leave

1. Plan the route. Pick busy, well-lit streets even if they take a few minutes longer. Avoid shortcuts through parks, alleys or empty car parks.
2. Charge your phone. Keep it above 20 percent, or carry a small power bank on nights out.
3. Tell someone. Let a friend know when you're leaving and roughly when you'll be home. In Shecurity, start Walk me home and your circle can follow along live.
4. Set a check-in. If you'd rather not share live, set a check-in timer for the time you expect to arrive. If you don't check in, your circle is alerted.

On the way

5. Stay aware. Keep one earbud out or the volume low, and glance up from your phone.
6. Walk with purpose. Keep your keys ready before you reach your door.
7. Trust your gut. If a street or person feels wrong, cross over, turn around or go into a shop. You never need a reason.
8. Use a call. A real or fake call signals that someone is expecting you.

If you think you're being followed

9. Go somewhere busy: a shop, bar, petrol station or restaurant, and tell staff.
10. Don't go home if someone is following you; head somewhere public instead.
11. Make noise. A loud siren draws attention. Shecurity has one built in.
12. Call for help. Press and hold SOS to alert your circle with your location, and call your emergency number if you feel in danger.

If you are in danger right now, call your local emergency number first: 911, 112, 999 or 000.