Social Stories - 40

Late one night, 16 year old Erica was walking home after studying at a friends house. A car slowed down beside her, and the driver, a man she didn't recognize, rolled down his window and offered her a ride. She hesitated but declined, walking faster. The man followed her for a block before a neighbours porch light came on, startling him, and he sped away. Erica reported the incident, and it turned out the man had been involved in similar situations before.

• I got it ...

• I'm confused ...

What could Erica have done to reduce the risk of walking home alone at night?

• Walked in a well-lit area or with a friend

• Taken a shortcut through a dark alley

• Not paid attention to her surroundings

• Listened to music with headphones on

When the man offered Erica a ride, how should she respond to keep herself safe?

• Politely say no and keep walking

• Argue with him to leave her alone

• Stop and ask why she's following her

• Ignore him but stay in the same area

If Erica felt unsafe when the car started following her, what could she do next?

• Call a trusted adult or the police imemdiately

• Run into a nearby store, home or public place

• Yell for help to draw attention

• All of the Above

Why is it important to report situations like the one Erica experienced?

• To prevent others from being targeted by the same person

• To practice giving statements to the police

• To make neighbourhoods look bad

• To avoid getting in trouble for being out late

If a friend told you a similar story, what advice would you give them?

• Always walk with someone or call for a ride

• Stay calm, trust your instincts, and act to protect yourself

• Report the incident to a trusted adult or authority

• All of the Above