Safety Tips for Sex Workers

How safe is your work? Wherever you work, it is important to:

• Tell someone where you are going and how long you will be gone. 
  
• Try to work in pairs if possible…not side by side- but in sight of each other.
  
• Never let the client know you are alone. Let them think that you have a friend that knows where you are.
  
• Try and carry a phone if possible. You can get a 9-1-1 cell phone from some DV/SA agencies.
  
• Carry a small bag with the essentials: condoms, lube, hand wipes, and an extra change of clothes for emergencies.
  
• If giving blow jobs, do not brush teeth before hand and this can increase chances of contracting and infection including HIV. Chew gum or use teeth wipes
  
• Never carry a lot of money, or else hide money in a place other than a handbag.
  
• Think about an escape route in advance, in case of danger. 
  
• Look for well lit, open and secure areas in which to work. 
  
• If working in cars, memorize the car’s make and color. Leave fingerprints when possible (windows, dashboards, seat). Remember, newer cars have central locking which is an added risk.
  
• Always look in the back of the car to before you get in to ensure that no one else is there.
  
• Make sure you can see clients clearly. 
  
• Engage in small talk to assess any potential risk. 
  
• Always go on your ‘gut instinct’. If you get bad vibes or feel uneasy-Don’t go with him! 
  
• If dancing in a club, have a bouncer walk you to your car.
  
• If accepting drinks from clients, always make sure you watch it being made.

What to do if things go wrong:

• Make as much noise as possible. This frightens people away. Yell, scream—GET OUT! GET AWAY!
  
• Run and scream “FIRE” as loud as you can.
  
• Run to a busy street and get help.
  
• Create a HUGE scene to get attention.
  
• Loud noise scares people and attracts attention.
  
• Carry a whistle or personal alarm.
  
• Remember, at any sign of danger, yell and get help!