5 steps to be safe when being stalked:
- The first thing to should do if you think you are being stalked is clearly ask the stalker to stop. This request should not in any way engage the stalker further, or be an apology from you. Unfortunately, one of the main goals of stalking is to force the victim to have contact with the stalker, so the attention could continue even if you ask them to stop. Document your attempts to stop the stalking, so that you have some evidence should you ever need to seek assistance from law enforcement personnel.
- Change your daily routines. Try mixing up your daily schedule, this will throw off the stalker a bit. Do not take the same walking or jogging route each day, find several to enjoy and mix it up.
- Shred personal documents before throwing them in the trash. Many stalkers will actually go through your garbage and recycling to gather information about you. Be careful about what you throw out
- Change the locks on your house. Use the deadbolt lock as it cannot be picked. A stalker may not actually come in while you are there but maybe inspired to pick your lock and take a look around your house when you are out. Consider installing an alarm on your home, or using one of the many products available, such as window and door alarms, that may deter an intruder and alert the neighbors.
- Get a post office box for your mail if your mailbox doesn’t lock. Another common behavior of stalkers is to go through your mail. Be sure that your mail is secure by picking it up right at the post office.
- These are a few tips about things you should do. Now there are a few things that you should never do. These include retaliating against the stalker in any way, including stalking them. Instead, document each instance of harassment or stalking, and keep records. The stalker is seeking contact from you in any way, and your attention will be viewed as a positive result for them. Ignore your stalker, and protect yourself. Contact the Police and file a formal against the stalker if the above tips don’t help.
