Health Tip: Walking Alone at Night

(HealthDay News) -- Though traveling with a friend or in a group is safest at night, walking alone may be unavoidable. The best practice for someone walking alone at night is to stay aware and to take precautions, says the University of California at Berkeley.

The police department at UC Berkeley suggests:

• Be alert and aware of your surroundings.
• Avoid dark, vacant or deserted areas.
• Use well-lit, well-traveled routes.
• Dress in clothes and shoes that don't hamper movement.

If you sense you are in trouble, join a nearby group of people or go to an open business. If the threat is imminent, call 911 from a safe place.