Personal Safety: Managing risks (coming soon)

This lesson has been split into two sections.

The first General Considerations on Personal Safety explores the different aspects of personal safety, the risks we should take and those we should avoid. It is an opportunity for you to consider where risk comes into your own life, and how by managing risk you can learn and grow.

Second, in Situational Safety we take a look at specific times when managing personal safety is important, including cycle safety, young driver safety and getting home safely. We will also observe the requirements of safe travel around the uk and abroad and delve into your legal rights and responsibilities when travelling (passport, visa’s and insurance)

Section 1 – General Considerations on Personal Safety

Key questions:

1. What are personal safety and risk management?
2. Why do we take risks and how can we identify acceptable risks?
3. What is the one small change that can drastically improve your personal safety?

Within this lesson, you will be:

• Challenged to build your risk appetite, so that only acceptable risks are taken.
• Inspired to create a personal safety plan for yourself (and your family).
• Tasked to make the one change that will drastically improve your personal safety.

A knowledge check to begin…

These questions address a range of personal safety concerns, including online security, physical safety, community involvement, and emergency preparedness.

Did you get them all right?

If yes – amazing, you already know a lot about how to keep yourself safe, now it is time to improve that knowledge further.

If not – that’s okay, and why you are here to learn more about personal safety and risk management. Brush up on your knowledge and expand your understanding by reading on!

What are personal safety and risk management?

Personal Safety

Managing Risks in Relation to Personal Safety

The Importance of Personal Safety and Managing Risk

Personal safety and risk management are critical aspects of a well-rounded approach to living a secure and fulfilling life. Understanding their importance helps individuals navigate daily activities with confidence and reduces the likelihood of encountering harm. The proactive measures involved in personal safety and risk management serve as the foundation for this approach.

Personal safety begins with awareness. Being conscious of your surroundings and potential hazards allows for better decision-making. According to the National Crime Prevention Council (2023), awareness and preparedness are the first lines of defence in personal safety. This means being vigilant in public spaces, avoiding risky areas, and being cautious when interacting with strangers. Awareness also extends to understanding the personal safety features of environments you frequent, such as workplaces, schools, and public transportation systems.

Risk management, on the other hand, involves systematically identifying and addressing potential threats. In relation to epidemics, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (2022) emphasises that risk management is not just about recognising dangers but also about implementing strategies to mitigate them. This could equally be applied to any risk. Limiting the possible harm of a risk could range from practical actions like carrying a personal alarm to more comprehensive measures such as developing emergency plans and undergoing safety training. The process of risk management is dynamic and continuous. Adapting to new information and changing circumstances is important..

The importance of these practices cannot be overstated. Effective personal safety and risk management reduce the likelihood of accidents and injuries, which can have significant physical, emotional, and/or financial repercussions. For instance, the World Health Organization (WHO) (2021) reports that unintentional injuries are a leading cause of death globally, many of which could be prevented through better risk management practices.

[Include a video clip about the doctor who spoke about safety and being prepared but recently died because he got lost alone with no water or emergency supplies?] I think a video talking about this story and others, for example wasn’t their recent ones about a person walking in Greece that died too in similar circumstances?]

Moreover, prioritising personal safety and risk management fosters a sense of empowerment. When individuals feel prepared and capable of handling potential dangers, their overall confidence and mental well-being improve. [(Link back/to Mental Resilience topic?) Another great idea I think] This is supported by research, which indicates that individuals who actively engage in safety planning and risk assessment experience lower levels of anxiety and stress. These strategies also have broader societal benefits. Communities that prioritise these practices tend to have lower crime rates and higher overall quality of life. For example, neighbourhood watch programs and community safety initiatives create environments where residents feel safer and more connected. They also get people talking and open communication between neighbours increases connection and safety for everyone.

TASK one

Take 5 Minutes to think about your life.
Now take 10 minutes to write down all the risks you take or come across regularly.

[I think a set of examples could be helpful here, or a video talking about a set of examples/scenarios?]

Why do we take risks?

Humans are naturally inclined to take risks due to a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. From an evolutionary perspective, our ancestors needed to take risks to survive and thrive. Hunting, exploring new territories, and seeking mates often involved danger, but these actions were necessary for survival and reproduction. This ingrained tendency to take risks persists in modern times, influencing our behaviour in various ways.

Psychologically, risk-taking is often linked to the pursuit of rewards. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter in the brain, plays a significant role in the pleasure and reward system. When we take risks and succeed, our brain releases dopamine, creating a feeling of euphoria and satisfaction. This positive reinforcement encourages us to take more risks in the future. Additionally, individuals have different levels of risk tolerance based on their personality traits. Some people, known as sensation-seekers, are naturally more inclined to seek out novel and thrilling experiences.

Social influences also play a crucial role in risk-taking behaviour. Peer pressure, cultural norms, and societal expectations can encourage individuals to take risks they might otherwise avoid. For example, in some professions, such as entrepreneurship or extreme sports, taking risks is celebrated and seen as a path to success and recognition. Media and popular culture often glamorise risk-taking, portraying it as exciting and heroic.

Moreover, taking risks is often necessary for personal and professional growth. Stepping out of our comfort zones allows us to learn new skills, gain experiences, and achieve goals that seemed unattainable. Whether it’s changing careers, starting a new relationship, or investing in a new venture, taking calculated risks can lead to significant rewards.

Risk-taking is ultimately a multifaceted behaviour driven by biological impulses, psychological rewards, and social influences. Understanding why we take risks can help us make more informed decisions and strike a balance between embracing opportunities and maintaining safety.

How Can We Identify Acceptable Risks?

Identifying acceptable risks involves evaluating potential dangers and benefits to make informed decisions. Acceptable risks are those where the potential benefits outweigh the potential harm, and the likelihood and severity of negative outcomes are manageable. This process is crucial in both personal and professional contexts to ensure safety and success.

The first step in identifying acceptable risks is conducting a thorough risk assessment. This involves analysing the situation to identify potential hazards and their possible impacts. Questions to consider include:

By systematically evaluating these factors, you can gain a clearer picture of the risk landscape. Once you’ve identified potential risks, the next step is to weigh the benefits against the dangers. Consider what you stand to gain from taking the risk.

Example: Starting a new business might involve financial uncertainty, but the potential for growth and personal fulfilment could justify the risk. In contrast, the risk might be deemed unacceptable if the potential losses are too high relative to the potential benefits.

Mitigation strategies are also essential in managing acceptable risks. Implementing measures to reduce the likelihood or impact of negative outcomes can make a risk more acceptable. This could involve safety protocols, insurance, training, or contingency plans. For instance, wearing protective gear reduces the risk of injury in extreme sports, making the activity more acceptable.

Additionally, consider your risk tolerance and capacity. Risk tolerance varies among individuals based on personality, experience, and resources. Assessing your comfort level with uncertainty and potential loss is necessary. If a risk exceeds your tolerance or capacity to manage it, then it may not be acceptable unless there are ways to minimise the chance of the danger occuring.

Example: Debating learning to scuba dive? Learning to scuba dive with no instructor or the correct kit is likely to end badly, but by having an experience instructor to teach you, using safety tested equipment and preparing for any other dangers or eventualities by having a first aid kit etc readily accessible make scuba diving a fun activity to learn how to do whilst on holiday.

Consulting with experts or seeking advice from trusted sources can provide valuable insights. Professionals with experience in a particular field can help you understand the nuances of the risks involved and offer practical advice on managing them. Overall, Identifying acceptable risks requires a balanced approach that considers potential hazards, benefits, mitigation strategies, and individual risk tolerance. By conducting thorough assessments and seeking expert advice, you can make informed decisions that maximise opportunities while minimising potential harm.

task two

Take 10 – 15 Minutes to separate your risks from the previous task into three groups:

1 – Those that are acceptable (they help you grow and learn. Eg: trying new foods)
2- Managed risks (these you can do but they have safeguards around so that the risk is minimised Eg: travel by plane you have a safety briefing and the aircraft crew take precautions to keep everyone safe)
3 – Unacceptable risks (ones that you should always avoid taking Eg: Any action that puts you in physical harms way).

For all the risks that are acceptable or can be managed, write down 2 to 3 ways to minimise the risk and help keep yourself safe.

[Perhaps with 5 scenarios I could put them onto a separate PDF to help them stand out/break up the text a bit – link has nothing on it currently]

Top Ten Steps for Managing Risk and Maintaining Personal Safety in 2024

By incorporating these steps into your daily life, you can effectively manage risks and maintain your personal safety in 2024. Prioritise awareness, preparedness, and proactive behaviour to navigate an increasingly complex world with confidence.

task three

Take 10 – 15 minutes to consider these items and whether they would be useful in an emergency.

Draw the 10 items you would prioritise in the backpack and explain how and why they would be useful.

Consider using two sides of A4 paper – one side for your items and justifications and the other for your backpack.

Extension: Talk to your family and create emergency kits at home. You’ll want to consider where the best place to keep these is and which items go where when you are packing them so they would be easy to grab and go.

An example item – The Swiss Army Knife

Why: A versatile tool that includes a knife, scissors, screwdriver, and other tools (depending on the type). It can be invaluable for various emergencies, from cutting materials to making minor repairs.

How: Use each tool individually for tasks like opening cans, cutting rope, or fixing small items. Thinking outside the box it could also be used as a counter weight, or to add leverage when tying a tourniquet etc.

*Can you think of other uses for a Swiss Army knife/multi-tool?

[Could just add the example to the answer sheet which I think is a good idea]

What is the one small change that can drastically improve your personal safety?

After completing this learning you may or may not be surprised to learn complacency is the biggest risk factor and the one simple change that can have drastic impact on improving your safety is increasing your awareness.

This practice, often referred to as situational awareness, involves paying attention to what’s happening around you and recognising potential threats before they become dangerous. By making a conscious effort to stay alert, to keep learning and understanding the world around you, you can identify suspicious behaviours or environments and take proactive steps to avoid them.

[Add video examples – could each of us 3 do one? Kat has her example on the document, Simon and I could think of alternative examples and record a short video too?]

Conclusions

Personal safety and risk management are essential for protecting oneself and enhancing quality of life. By being aware of potential dangers and implementing strategies to mitigate them, individuals can navigate their daily lives with greater confidence and security. These practices not only safeguard personal well-being but also contribute to the overall safety and resilience of communities. Yet it is equally important to understand that risk is a normal part of life, learning and growth, you just have to choose the right risks.

Section 2 – Situational Safety

Cyber Safety

Cyber safety is also known as internet safety or online safety, refers to the practice of protecting oneself, one’s information, and one’s devices from cyber threats while using the internet. These threats can range from malware, phishing attacks, and hacking to more subtle dangers like identity theft and cyberbullying. Cyber safety encompasses a wide array of practices and strategies aimed at safeguarding personal information and ensuring secure online interactions.

Why is it important?

In our digital age, where much of our personal and professional lives are conducted online, cyber safety is of paramount importance. The internet, while a powerful tool for communication, commerce, and information sharing, is also a breeding ground for cybercriminals and malicious activities. Here are some key reasons why cyber safety is crucial:

1. Protection of Personal Information: Our personal information, such as social security numbers, bank details, and passwords, is highly valuable to cybercriminals. Safeguarding this data is essential to prevent identity theft and financial fraud.
2. Securing Financial Transactions: With the rise of online banking and shopping, protecting financial information from cyber threats is vital to avoid unauthorised transactions and financial losses.
3. Maintaining Privacy: In a world where data is often considered the new oil, maintaining privacy is increasingly challenging. Cyber safety practices help protect our privacy by controlling the amount of personal information we share online.
4. Preventing Cyberbullying and Harassment: Cyber safety measures can help protect individuals, especially children and teenagers, from cyberbullying, online harassment, and other forms of online abuse.
5. Safeguarding Professional Information: For businesses and professionals, protecting sensitive information from cyber-attacks is critical to maintaining client trust and complying with legal and regulatory requirements.
6. Avoiding Malware and Viruses: Malware and viruses can damage devices, steal data, and compromise security. Cyber safety practices help in preventing these malicious software programs from infecting devices.
7. Ensuring Safe Social Media Use: Social media platforms are common targets for cyber-attacks. Effective cyber safety practices ensure that social media accounts are secure from hacking and misuse.

Cyber safety is an essential practice in today’s digital world. By understanding its importance and adopting effective safety measures, individuals and businesses can protect themselves from a myriad of cyber threats and ensure a safer online experience.

task one

Take 10 – 15 minutes to create a poster, podcast episode, or other forms of information sharing, on the top 10 things you must do to stay safe online.

Cycle Safety

Cycling is an eco-friendly and efficient mode of transport, but it requires vigilance to ensure safety. Always wear a helmet to protect your head in case of accidents. Make sure your bike is in good working condition, with properly inflated tires, functional brakes, and visible lights and reflectors, especially if riding at night. Wear bright or reflective clothing to increase visibility to motorists. Follow traffic laws, use hand signals to communicate with drivers, and always stay alert to your surroundings. Avoid busy roads when possible and use bike lanes or paths.

[A video or photo reel here would work really well I think]

Young Driver Safety

Young drivers often face higher risks on the road due to inexperience. It’s essential to practice defensive driving, which means being aware of other drivers and anticipating potential hazards. Always wear a seatbelt, obey speed limits, and avoid distractions such as using a mobile phone while driving. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Enrolling in advanced driving courses can provide valuable skills and confidence. Parents should discuss driving safety regularly and set clear rules regarding car use.

Passenger Safety

As a passenger, your safety can be influenced by the driver’s behaviour. Always wear a seatbelt, sit upright, and avoid distracting the driver. If you feel uncomfortable with the driver’s speed or behaviour, speak up or suggest taking a break. For long trips, ensure the driver is well-rested and takes regular breaks to prevent fatigue. 

Travelling in the UK and abroad [could this become a video instead to break up the text?]

Travelling in the UK

Under the Common Travel Area agreement, British and Irish citizens can move freely and/or reside in either jurisdiction and enjoy the associated rights and privileges, including study, work, voting and access to social/health care benefits.

Rights and responsibilities of citizens:

Taxi

When travelling by taxi in the UK, always use licensed services to ensure safety. Licensed taxis display a licence plate and driver’s ID. Before entering, verify the driver and vehicle details. Share your ride details with a trusted contact and track your route via GPS. Sit in the back seat and keep your belongings close. To reach your destination efficiently, provide the driver with the precise address or use a ride-hailing app which offers navigation support. In case of any issues, report them to the local licensing authority.

Bus

Buses are a cost-effective way to travel in the UK. Ensure safety by waiting for buses at well-lit, busy stops, and avoid isolated areas at night. Use official apps or websites to check bus schedules and routes. Keep personal belongings secure and stay vigilant, especially in crowded buses. Upon boarding, take note of emergency exits. If you’re unfamiliar with the route, inform the driver of your stop. To reach your destination without issues, have the exact fare or a contactless payment card ready, and plan your trip in advance to avoid delays.

Train

Travelling by train in the UK is convenient and efficient. To stay safe, keep your belongings secure and stay alert in stations, particularly in crowded areas. Use official ticket counters or apps for purchasing tickets to avoid scams. Pay attention to announcements and signboards to navigate platforms. Stay behind the safety line while waiting for your train and avoid isolated carriages. For long journeys, check the route and schedule in advance. If travelling late, choose well-lit areas and inform someone of your travel plans.

Getting Home Safely

Plan your journey home before going out, especially if you will be out late. Use reputable transportation services and avoid walking alone in poorly lit or isolated areas. If you feel unsafe, enter a public place like a shop or restaurant and call for help. Trust your instincts and avoid situations that feel unsafe.

Legal Rights and Responsibilities When Travelling Abroad

When travelling abroad, understanding your legal rights and responsibilities is crucial for ensuring a safe and hassle-free trip. The first step is to have a valid passport that won’t expire for at least six months beyond your planned return date. Check the specific entry requirements for your destination country, as some places require visas, which can take time to process. Visit your country’s official travel website or the embassy of your destination for detailed information.

Passport and Visa Requirements

Many countries require that travellers have a visa in addition to a valid passport. Research the type of visa needed for your visit, whether it’s for tourism, business, or other purposes. Apply for your visa well in advance of your trip to avoid last-minute issues. Some countries offer electronic visa applications, while others require a visit to their embassy or consulate.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is another critical aspect of safe travel. It covers unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and more. Choose a comprehensive policy that fits your needs and ensures that it includes coverage for any activities you plan to engage in, such as extreme sports.

Health and Safety

Before travelling, check if you need any vaccinations or medications for your destination. Carry a copy of your medical prescriptions and know the local laws regarding bringing medications into the country. Familiarise yourself with local laws and customs to avoid unintentional offences. Some countries have strict laws regarding alcohol, dress codes, and behaviour that can lead to serious consequences if violated.

Know how to contact your country’s embassy or consulate in case of an emergency. They can assist with legal issues, lost passports, and other emergencies. Make copies of your travel documents and keep them in a safe place, separate from the originals.

Emergency Contacts

By being well-prepared and informed about your rights and responsibilities, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

task two

Take 10 – 15 minutes to reflect on your learning and to create a list of 3 to 5 things you will now do to help keep yourself safe and manage risks.

If you do nothing else, be aware and think carefully when deciding if a risk is acceptable or not.

Want to learn more?

Check out these books:

• Life skills for Tweens by Ferne Bowe
• The Power of Awareness by Spencer Coursen
• The science of Fear: Why we Fear things we shouldn’t – and put ourselves in greater danger by Daniel gardner

The Crime Stoppers website is set up to provide detailed information about various types of crime and how you can take precautions and learn how to report them.

Get advice on traveling abroad from this government site.

Further cycle advice is available here.