Use These Tips To Keep Yourself From Becoming a Victim of Crime

1. Whenever possible, walk with a friend or business colleague.

2. Walk purposefully...head up, eyes forward.

3. Limit your contact with strangers on the street.

4. Carry a whistle to blow if trouble arises.

5. At night, use a flashlight when you walk, even if the area is well lit. This conveys an "I know where I am going" attitude.

6. Wear a "fanny pack" instead of carrying a purse. This leaves both hands free and it's harder to steel.

7. If you suspect you are being followed, confidently turn and ask, "Are you following me?" This lets them know you are aware and unafraid.

8. Walk on the side of the street facing oncoming traffic. This will prevent a car from "sneaking" up on you.

9. If you must walk alone at night, do not walk near cars parked at the curb or close to doorways or shrubbery that could conceal an ambush.

10. Carry a small amount ($10.00 or so) of "mugger's money." Sometimes assailants become angry if they do not get anything.

11. Do not carry a handgun, mace or other "defensive" weapons unless properly trained in their use. Statistics prove these items are frequently turned against untrained victims by assailants.

12. Avoid shortcuts through parks, tunnels, parking lots, and alleys.

13. Do not use an automatic teller machine on the street. Go to one located inside a store or mall where you will have better security.

12 Steps To Getting Around Safely.

1. Walk with confidence, keeping your head up.

2. Carry very few valuables and never carry anything worth fighting for!

3. Think ahead for safe havens. Open businesses, populated areas, or even taxi cabs.  Cab drivers can help you out in a situation. They have radios and can drive you away from a situation.  Use the Drop-in Centers. These are located at various points in the city.

4. Don’t walk alone, use the buddy system.

5. Be Aware of Dangerous Places like alleyways and high crime areas.

6. Avoid Poorly Lit Areas. This Could Even Mean your Front Door If You Use A Low Watt Bulb.  Park in well lit areas or park under street lights. Try to park near parking attendants.

7. Don’t accept rides. This doesn’t apply only to children, know who your getting in a car with

8. Avoid public restrooms. If you must go in let someone else hold your purse (your husband maybe).

9. Carry a personal alarm. Most come with multiple features. Weapons are not recommended, they are more likely to be used against you.

10. Keep walking, don’t stop for strangers

11. Carry a flashlight, and avoid places so dark that you need one.

12. NOW THE HARDEST ONE, don’t show your having a bad day. Hold your head up and know what’s going on around you. Refer to the first step.