Safety is My Right

We all have the right to feel safe at all times, however in our ever changing world it is possible that you or your loved one’s personal safety may be threatened. It is important that we are all aware of ways to control our own safety, and that we educate our children from a young age to understand, recognise and have appropriate strategies to protect themselves.

The Protective Behaviours Program, supported by the Queensland Police Service encourages individuals to identify situations that are unsafe, and to develop strategies to counter these situations and preserve their physical and emotional safety. With emphasis on the right to safety, networks and problem-solving strategies, the program has proven effective in relation to a range of personal safety issues including drug and alcohol abuse, school bullying, domestic violence and sexual harassment.

When we feel unsafe, our bodies tell us through physical sensations that something is wrong. These physical sensations are called early warning signs, gut feelings or intuition. By learning how to recognise these feelings, such as butterflies in the stomach, sweaty hands, goose bumps or a racing heart, you or your child may be able to take steps to control your safety.

Protective Behaviours teaches that there is nothing so awful we can’t talk with someone about it. Having a group of trusted people means that there is always someone to talk to about anything that may worry you. By learning how to talk about your worries you will feel more safe, less stressed, more in control and able to take appropriate action.

There are many different personal safety strategies that you or your family can use. Being confident, having positive body language, noticing your surroundings and trusting and acting on your instincts are just some of the ways to stay safe. Consider working out a safety plan with your family in case of an emergency. Always let someone know where you are going, who you are with and when you will be back. If picking children up from school, make a plan and don’t change it. Show your children where safe places are, such as Safety Houses or businesses they can go to if they are feeling scared.

There are a range of Qld Police brochures that can be downloaded from the Qld Police website, or collected at local police stations that address personal safety including ‘Safety is My Right’, ‘Safety Networks’, ‘Safety Strategies for Teenagers’ and ‘Personal Safety Strategies’. For further information contact the Crime Prevention Unit on 3234 2111.