If you find that you are starting to use public transport more you need to make sure that you use it sensibly and know how to stay safe, especially if you are travelling alone.
Buses
If you are waiting for a bus, try not to use bus stops that are isolated and if it is dark, find one which is well-lit. When you're on the bus, if there aren't many passengers on it try to sit near the bus driver or conductor. If you're alone, don't sit on the top deck and try and sit in an aisle seat if you can.
Trains, trams and the Underground
Whilst you're waiting on the platform, stand somewhere well-lit, close to the exit or where there are other passengers or staff around. When you're on the train, tram or tube, try to sit in a carriage where there are other people and in open carriages where you can walk through to the next one. A handy tip to remember is that older trains have a red line above the windows if it is a closed carriage, so try to avoid these. If you do feel uncomfortable in the carriage you're in and can't walk through to the next one, change carriages when you reach the next station.
As soon as you sit down, look to see where the emergency cord is - they're usually marked in red. If you are in trouble or feel uncomfortable, don't be afraid to use it - that's what it's there for.
Taxis
If your booking a taxi make sure that you use a reputable company - is there a taxi firm your friends or family use regularly? When the taxi arrives, don't tell the taxi driver your name, and make sure he or she tells you the name the taxi is booked in. If it isn't a taxi firm that you normally use, make sure it is licensed by looking for a plaque on the outside of the car.
Before you get in the taxi, ask the firm or the driver to quote you a price for the journey, so you can check that you have enough money. If you don't have enough money a reputable company should get you home safely so your parents or carer can pay the rest of the bill. If you're by yourself always sit in the back and if you can, share the taxi with a friend - you'll feel more comfortable and it will save you money.
If a car stops without you asking it to and the driver tells you he's a taxi driver and to jump in - don't. Remember that black cab taxi drivers are only supposed to stop when asked and private firms are not supposed to stop in the street at all - they are only ever allowed to pick up pre-arranged bookings. So, if you notice anything suspicious, get in touch with the police and give them the taxi firm's details.
Other Travelling Safety Tips
Always let people know your plans, what time you'll be back and how you are travelling.
If someone starts chatting to you, be pleasant and confident, but don't give away any personal information like your address or details of your school, college or work. Stick to general topics of conversation.
Make sure you have enough money for your fare home. Never walk home alone or hitch a lift.
If you have no way of getting home or contacting an adult who can help you, call the police and they will help you.
Personal alarms are a good deterrent and will give you more confidence when you're out alone. They should be carried in your hand, or an open pocket, not at the bottom of your bag or in an inside pocket.
Mobile phones are useful as you can easily contact someone. If you haven't got a mobile, think about carrying a phone card.
Keep your bags and personal possessions next to you, or keep hold of them - don't leave them out where someone could grab them and run off If you ever feel uncomfortable, tell someone - either a bus driver, transport official, guard or another passenger.
If something happens, make sure you report the incident to the police - as well as helping you; it will be helping other people
For more Information
For more tips on safety and local initiatives view the Durham Police site.
Suzy Lamplugh Trust is a charity recognised as an authority on personal safety.
You can also check out the Millys Fund Site which has a page on being safe while travelling.