Crime Prevention Tips

SAFETY WHEN OUT AND ABOUT

• If you are attacked on the street, make as much noise as possible by calling for help or blowing a whistle. Do not pursue your attacker. Call 911 and report the crime as soon as possible.
  
  
• Avoid walking alone at night. Try to have a friend accompany you in high risk areas . . . even during the daytime.
  
  
• Always plan your route and stay alert to your surroundings. Walk confidently. Have a companion accompany you.
  
  
• Have your key ready when approaching your front door.
  
  
• Don't dangle your purse away from your body.
  
  
• Don't carry large, bulky shoulder bags; carry only what you need. Better yet, sew a small pocket inside your jacket or coat. If you don't have a purse, no one will try to snatch it.
  
  
• Carry your purse very close to you . . . don't dangle it from your arm. Never leave your purse in a shopping cart. Never leave your purse unattended.
  
  
• Don't carry any more cash than is necessary. Many grocery stores now accept checks and automatic teller cards instead of cash.
  
  
• Don't display large sums of cash.
  
  
• Always keep your car doors locked, whether you are in or out of your car. Keep your gas tank full and your engine properly maintained to avoid breakdowns.
  
  
• If your car breaks down, pull over to the right as far as possible, raise the hood, and wait INSIDE the car for help.
  
  
• Avoid getting out of the car and making yourself a target before police arrive.
  
  
• At stop signs and traffic lights, keep the car in gear.
  
  
• Lock bundles or bags in the trunk. If interesting packages are out of sight, a thief will be less tempted to break in to steal them.
  
  
• When returning to your car, check the front and back seat before entering.
  
  
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
  
  
  
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