PanicStation.org
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us Personal safety & immediate danger someone waiting outside for me • person waiting by the exit • unsafe leaving a venue • unsafe leaving a building • i think i'm being followed • someone targeting me at exit • suspicious person near doorway • worried someone is after me • leaving alone feels unsafe • being watched outside venue • stalker waiting outside • harassment outside a building • fear at the exit • threatened when leaving • someone in the parking lot • anxious about walking out • someone waiting for me outside • personal safety after an event

What to do if…
you think someone is waiting near the exit of a venue or building specifically for you

Short answer

Don’t leave alone. Stay inside where there are staff and people, and ask venue security/management for an escort and help contacting police if you feel in danger.

Do not do these things

  • Don’t go outside alone “to check” or to see if you’re overreacting.
  • Don’t confront them or try to get close for a better photo/video.
  • Don’t head to a parking lot/garage alone.
  • Don’t post your location or exit plan publicly.
  • Don’t drive straight home if you think you’re being followed.

What to do now

  1. Move to the safest indoor spot available. Choose a staffed, visible area (front desk, bar, security station) or ask to wait in an office/back room.
  2. Tell staff/security exactly what you need. Say: “I think someone is waiting outside for me. I don’t feel safe leaving.” Ask for:
    • a security escort to your ride/car,
    • staff to watch the exit while you leave,
    • a different exit if available,
    • help calling 911 or local police if needed.
  3. If you suspect your phone is being monitored (or it’s unsafe to use near the exit), switch devices. Ask staff to call 911 for you, or use a staff phone. Keep any calls/messages brief and practical.
  4. Call 911 if you feel threatened or trapped. If you believe you’re in immediate danger (blocked, threatened, or you fear imminent harm), call 911 and tell the dispatcher you’re inside a venue and afraid to exit.
  5. Make leaving a single, supported move. Leave only when your transport is ready and you can go directly to it with an escort or group. If using a rideshare/taxi:
    • wait inside until it arrives,
    • confirm the correct vehicle details before you step out,
    • get in immediately with the escort nearby.
  6. If you think you’re being followed after you leave, don’t go home. Go to a well-lit, staffed public place and call 911 if you feel at risk. If you’re driving, keep moving to a safe public location rather than pulling over somewhere isolated.
  7. Record key details without escalating risk. From a safe distance (or by asking staff to do it), note:
    • appearance and clothing,
    • where they’re positioned,
    • time,
    • any vehicle make/model/plate you can safely see. Ask staff to note the time and preserve any relevant security camera footage.
  8. Once you’re safe, message one trusted person. Share where you are, where you’re going next, and what you want them to do (for example: stay on the phone until you’re indoors).

What can wait

  • Deciding whether this is “really” stalking/harassment or whether you want to file a report right now.
  • Writing a full account (a few accurate notes are enough tonight).
  • Longer-term steps like protective orders, workplace/school plans, or changing routines.

Important reassurance

You’re allowed to act on a “something feels off” moment. Asking staff for help or calling 911 if you feel in danger is a reasonable safety step, not an overreaction.

Scope note

This is first-steps guidance for the next minutes to hours. If this is part of an ongoing pattern, victim-support services can help you think through safer options without handling it alone.

Important note

This guide is general information, not legal advice. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

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