What is an unsafe situation?
Personal safety is a feeling of being safe and secure from risk of harm or danger. Everyone has the right to feel safe.
Different people have different tolerance levels when it comes to feeling safe and secure.
It does not matter if everyone else feels safe, what does matter is that you personally feel safe.
How do you recognise an unsafe situation?
An unsafe situation is any environment where you feel uncomfortable or at risk of harm or danger.
How to avoid unsafe situations?
To prevent wandering into an unsafe situation, make sure you stay aware of where you are, and the people around you.
How to prepare for unsafe situations?
Be mindful of the closest form of help or support.
Have a safety plan in place.
Make sure that more than one person has an iPad or phone, and charger, to contact a responsible adult.
Make sure you know:
- your address,
- your parents work addresses,
- the contact details for a close family friend, and their mobile numbers.
Make sure people know where you are
Ensure your parents or teachers or friends know where you are and what activities you plan to do e.g., going to a movie or meeting up at a local oval to play soccer.
If you do not arrive at your destination, people can immediately begin looking for you.
Codes of conduct and safety plans prevent accident and injury. Follow the safety instructions associated with your activities or environment.
Carry around Safety Infomation
Carry around essential safety information in case of an emergency: such as allergies or medical conditions.
Sometimes a safe situation can become unsafe very quickly. Example: an intoxicated person may join you on a tram or train and their behaviour may be erratic or unpredictable.
Discuss with your family what you could do in these situations.
Remember: It is always easier to prevent danger and confrontation than it is to manage it.
Parents: Watch our video on how to teach safety to autistic young people
