Navigating Solo: How to Plan Safe Routes

Travelling alone can be an empowering experience, offering independence and a sense of adventure.

However, it also carries inherent risks, particularly if routes are not carefully planned.

The tragic stories of individuals who have fallen victim to assaults due to inadequate planning serve as a stark reminder of the importance of safety in solo travel.

Let’s explores these dangers and provide practical tips for route planning and discuss the vital role of personal protective equipment (PPE) and emergency protocols.

Additionally, we reflect on the case of Suzy Lamplugh and how it has influenced safety practices, particularly for lone workers.

The Risks of Failing to Plan:

One well-known sad case is that of Suzy Lamplugh, an estate agent who went missing in 1986 while showing a client around a property.

Suzy’s disappearance remains unsolved, but it is believed she was abducted and murdered.

Her tragic case highlighted the dangers faced by individuals who travel or work alone without adequate safety measures in place.

Another tragic story is that of Sarah Everard, who was abducted and murdered while walking home alone in London in 2021.

Both cases underscore the importance of planning safe routes and having protective measures in place when traveling alone.

10 Tips for Planning a Safe Route When Traveling Alone

Research your route
Share your itinerary
Stay in well-lit, populated areas
Avoid routine
Check public transport schedules
Have a backup plan
Use a personal safety App
Keep emergency numbers handy
Trust your instincts – never ignore your instincts!
Travel during daylight when possible

Personal Protective Equipment – When Travelling Alone or in Small Groups

Carrying personal protective equipment can be a vital part of staying safe while travelling alone.

Some recommended items include:

Personal Alarm
Mobile phone – with prepared contact numbers
Tactical flashlight

Raising the Alarm: Who to Call and What to Expect

In the event of an emergency, the first point of contact should be local emergency services (ie; 999 in the UK).

When you call, clearly state your location, the nature of the emergency, and any identifying details that might help responders find you.

The response time can vary depending on your location and the nature of the emergency.

The police or emergency services typically respond within a short period of time, but in remote or rural areas, it may take longer.

Lessons Learned

Suzy Lamplugh’s disappearance has had a profound impact on safety protocols, particularly for lone workers.

Following her case there are several key safety measures that have been integrated into lone worker procedures:

Buddy systems
Lone worker devices
Training and awareness

The principles of planning safe routes for solo travellers have significant crossover with lone worker procedures.

Both require a proactive approach to safety, emphasising preparation, communication, and the use of protective measures.

For lone workers, having a clear protocol for raising the alarm and ensuring that someone knows their whereabouts is crucial.

Additionally, the importance of situational awareness and trusting one’s instincts cannot be overstated.

But what if the above fails and you need to protect yourself?

Understanding the Use of Reasonable Force: What You Can and Cannot Do

The concept of “reasonable force” is crucial when it comes to self-defence and protecting yourself.

It refers to the amount of force one may legally use to defend themselves, their property, or someone else from harm.

However, knowing what constitutes reasonable force and when it crosses the line into excessive or unlawful action is essential for staying within the bounds of the law.

What you ‘can’ do.

Defend yourself and/or others
Protect your property
Prevent a crime
Use proportionate force

What you ‘cannot’ do.

Use excessive force
Seek retribution
Use deadly force without justification
Act pre-emptively – without evidencing the necessity for immediate action

Remember every plan ‘must’ have an exit strategy built into it, otherwise it is not a good plan.

The force you use must always be proportionate to the threat and necessary to prevent harm.

Overstepping these bounds can lead to serious legal repercussions, so it’s important to know your rights and act reasonably in any situation that calls for self-defence.

Summary

Planning safe routes and understanding the risks of solo travel are essential for personal safety.

By learning from past tragedies, such as the case of Suzy Lamplugh, and applying these lessons to both solo travel and lone working, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of encountering danger.

Through careful planning, the use of protective equipment, and adherence to safety protocols, travelling alone can remain an empowering and secure experience.

Want to know more about proactive measures you can use to enhance your safety?