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Tips for men to help women feel safe at night

Written by Adrian Worthington, published 03-14-23

When women are out alone, especially at night, they face unique risks. As a society, it’s essential that we acknowledge this and take steps to ensure women’s safety. Men, in particular, can help by realising how their behaviour can impact women. In this article, we will discuss some simple changes men can make to their behaviour and offer tips for men to help women feel safe at night.

Women are often hyper-aware of their surroundings and assessing potential threats when out alone. When a man approaches, it can be intimidating, especially if he behaves unpredictably or aggressively. Men should be mindful of their body language and tone of voice, avoid standing too close, making sudden movements or using aggressive language.

Men should also be aware of their surroundings and how their behaviour may impact women. For example, if a man is walking behind a woman at night, he should keep a safe distance or simply cross the road to another pavement and definitely avoid whistling, catcalling, or making inappropriate comments that can make women feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

If men see another man behaving inappropriately towards a woman, they should intervene if they can do so safely. This could be as simple as checking in with the woman or calling out the behaviour of the other man.

Tips for men to help women feel safe at night:

Be Mindful of Your Body Language and Tone of Voice

When approaching a woman who is alone at night, it’s important to be mindful of your body language and tone of voice. Avoid standing too close, making sudden movements, or using aggressive language that can be perceived as threatening. Instead, approach in a calm and respectful manner, using a friendly tone of voice. This will help to put the woman at ease and make her feel more comfortable.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

When you are out at night, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and how your behavior can impact those around you. For example, if you are walking behind a woman, try to keep a safe distance and avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that may startle her. If you are in a public space, be mindful of the other people around you and avoid making anyone feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Intervene if Necessary

If you see someone behaving inappropriately towards a woman, it’s important to intervene if you can do so safely. This could be as simple as checking in with the woman to make sure she’s okay or calling out the behaviour of the other person. If the situation is more serious, you may need to intervene more directly by calling the police or physically stepping in to protect the woman.

On public transport

One of the most important things a man can do is to sit at a respectful distance from the woman preferably infront of them so they can see you. This means avoiding sitting too close or invading her personal space as well as avoiding prolonged eye contact

Listen to Women’s Experiences

Women often face harassment or assault when they are out alone, and it can be a traumatic experience. If a woman shares her experience with you, listen to her without judgment and offer your support. Let her know that you believe her and that you are committed to creating a safer environment for everyone. You can also educate yourself on the issue by reading articles, attending workshops or events, and volunteering with organisations that work to prevent sexual assault and harassment.

Rape alarms

You could ensure female friends and family carry a personal alarm to help them feel safe safer when alone at night or in unfamiliar areas and protect them from potentially threatening situation.

Women face unique risks when they are out alone, particularly at night, and it’s crucial for society to acknowledge and address these risks. Men can play an important role in creating a safer environment by being mindful of their behaviour and how it can impact women.

By making simple changes, such as being aware of your situation, body language and surroundings and the impact this could have on a woman alone can help create a more respectful and safer society for all. Ultimately, everyone has a role to play in creating a world where women feel safe and respected when they are out alone.

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