Before going out on escort consider these simple procedures that will help ensure your safety.
Setting the Ground Rules:
When the client rings for an escort, he should be told what is expected of him. For example:
- condom use is compulsory for french and sex;
- ask him if he is alone and explain that the worker will not stay if there are extra people there;
- check that he is going to pay with cash or credit card. (Cheques given for escorts usually always bounce!)
- discuss with the client how much money he forfeits if, on arrival eg. he decides the worker is not appropriate, he fails the routine health check, he is too drunk or drug-affected to perform, or the worker decides to cancel the service for any other reason.
The client should give his full name, address and the phone number of the premises where he wants the escort to come. A mobile number should not suffice.
Ideally, the phone number should be checked in the phone book, to ensure that the client is who he says he is. Then ring the client back and confirm he is there.
For hotel/motel jobs, call the front desk to ensure they have a guest booked under the name and room number given by the client.
Remember to take your mobile phone with you to the escort. A torch can also come in handy.
Don’t take personal cash to the job with you.
It is not a good idea to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs when going out on an escort as these can affect your judgement and ability to defend yourself.
Section 8 of the ACT Workcover Sexual Services Code of Practice states that brothel owners should provide security for their escort workers and should not let them travel to and from escorts unaccompanied. This means that, ideally, a driver should be provided. The Code also states that drivers should be trained in the course of action they should take if a worker requires assistance during an escort.
If you are doing an escort to a private home, drive past first to check that everything appears ok. Eg, if there are several cars in the driveway or loud music is coming from the house, call the client to discuss your concerns or cancel the booking.
If you have to drive yourself to a booking, park your car so the client can’t see all of it from the house and mention to the client that a driver is waiting for you.
When you arrive at the booking ask the client for the money first and put it in your bag or pocket. Keep an eye on your bag at all times, taking it to the toilet and shower with you.
After getting the money, ring back to the brothel and confirm you have arrived and you are starting the booking. If you are a private worker it is important that you arrange to ring a contact person (at very least an answering machine) so the client knows someone is looking out for you.
Do a quick security check to make sure the client is alone in the house. In the bedroom be aware that a small red light can indicate that a video recorder is operating and the client may be videoing you.
Do not accept a drink that has been opened or is in a glass. Drink spiking is common these days.
Don’t forget to do an STI check before the service begins. The client should have been made aware over the phone that if he fails the health check the service won’t continue and he will be liable for a booking fee.
Do not be afraid to say NO if necessary. Warn a client that you will leave if he doesn’t behave, or simply tell him you’ve left something in the car and leave. If you find a particular client distasteful, abusive or disrespectful, no amount of money is worth it.
If you’re working from a brothel, get the receptionist to ring you about five minutes before you’re due to finish the job. Make sure she insists on speaking to you. Private workers should ring their contact person when the job is finished to tell them they are safe and returning home.
Before leaving the job, count your cash or credit slips to make sure they are all there, but don’t do this in front of the client.
If you have a bad experience with a client, visit or phone SWOP ACT to make an “Ugly Mug” report. Filing one of these reports will let other workers know about the client.
If you need any information or advice concerning the above information, please contact SWOP ACT.
Disclaimer: This information is of a general nature and is meant as a guide only. SWOP accepts no responsibility for the accuracy, currency, completeness or relevance for purpose of any material contained herein. SWOP recommends that workers exercise care when using the information and obtain professional advice appropriate to their circumstances.