Crime Prevention Safety: Street Tips
Everyone fears street
crime. Though the odds of it happening to you are relatively low,
taking some simple precautions can reduce the risk of being robbed
or injured even further. Keep in mind that these common sense tips
are only suggestions; there is no one right response for every situation.
1. Avoid walking on poorly
lighted streets and in areas that are not well traveled. Better
to take a longer route than an unsafe short one.
2. Walk with someone
else if possible-especially at night. Company, male or female will
discourage most muggers.
3. Be alert to your surroundings.
Avoid walking too close to bushes, alleys, entryways or other good
hiding places.
4. Never carry more money
than necessary. You invite trouble by carrying or displaying large
amounts of cash or other valuables in public. For men, money is
most safely carried in the front pocket of pants.
5. Women should consider
whether they really need to carry a handbag. If you must, carry
it tightly under your arm ... not dangling from your wrist or wrapped
tightly around it. Never leave it unattended on store counters,
bus seats, or in shopping carts.
6. Carry a personal alarm
such a whistle. Unexpected loud noises can scare off a troublemaker
and summon help.
7. If someone is following
you on foot, cross the street, change your direction or vary your
pace. If followed by someone in a car, turn around and walk briskly
in the other direction. If still followed, seek assistance at the
nearest home or business and immediately call the police.
8. Have your keys ready
before you enter your car or house. You are more vulnerable when
fumbling for keys.
9. If you are actually
robbed or assaulted, the most important thing is to keep your wits.
You must make a personal judgment as to how best to respond given
the situation and your confidence in being able to physically defend
yourself. If only your property is threatened, it is usually advisable
not to resist-it is not worth the risk.
10. Do not rely on weapons
for protection. A metal file, scissors, keys, a knife-all can just
as easily be used against you.
11. Most importantly,
get to know your neighbors and cooperate with them in making your
immediate neighborhood safer.
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