Walking to and from campus is a great way to stay active, and with our University surrounded by national park and bushland areas, many of us are lucky to enjoy a daily commute through beautiful natural environments.

But travelling through isolated areas can present potential risks, and place us in a vulnerable position if confronted by a person or persons displaying disturbing behaviour.

Here are a few tips from Security to help keep you safe when walking through isolated or bushland areas:

• Don’t walk after dark.
• Carry a torch in case you are delayed and have to walk through the bush during twilight.
• Avoid walking alone. Walk in pairs or larger groups if you can.
• Don’t use personal audio devices which may cause you to miss a warning or not be as alert to your surroundings.
• Let someone know the time you have left and the time you expect to be at your destination.
• Ensure your mobile is charged and that you have an emergency call number programmed.
• Consider carrying a distress / duress alarm or siren to use in an emergency.
• Avoid suspicious characters. Turn and walk the other way if you can. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
• Don’t engage a person you are not familiar with or who makes you feel uncomfortable.
• Report suspicious activity or behaviour immediately to local police.

View Macquarie University Security for further information on personal safety.