Being safe requires making wise personal choices that help prevent you from becoming a victim of crime. Follow these tips to be safe while out of the house:
- Avoid walking alone at night. If you must walk alone at night, stick to well-travelled and well-lit streets.
- Be aware of your surroundings, and walk confidently.
- Carry only essential items such as an ID, credit or debit card, and a cell phone. Avoid carrying cash as much as possible.
- Dress so you can run or walk easily to avoid an attack.
- Do not display target items such as money, cell phones, or Ipods.
- Avoid passing close to ambush points such as bushes or tall shrubbery.
- Avoid cell phone usage while walking alone unless you are in a safe area.
- If you are attacked or confronted by a robber, don’t fight, comply with the suspects demands. Obtain a good description and IMMEDIATELY call the police when you are safe to do so. Do not call friends and family first.
- If an attacker tries to take you to another location, do everything you can to avoid being transported somewhere else.
- If you have been drinking and are intoxicated, never accept a ride from someone you do not know.