Personal Safety Tips

Tips

• Be alert, aware, and cautious. Know where your belongings are and where you are going. Be aware of your surrounding area.
• Remain alert, especially in crowded areas. Someone might bump into you while another picks your pocket or purse.
• Women should carry their purses with the clasp or flap to the front of the body.
• Never leave your purse in a shopping cart or counter unattended. Be aware of hanging your purse on the back of your chair in a restaurant.
• When using public washrooms, avoid placing purses on hooks or door handles.
• Park in well-lit, busy areas. Keep doors locked.
• Be aware of your surroundings when going to and from your vehicle. Criminals will hide between and under vehicles.
• Plan your stops in advance and inform others of your destination.
• Travel in a well-lit area and do not take unfamiliar shortcuts.
• Carry your keys separate from your identification, so in case of a theft, the criminal will not have your address and keys.
• Visually scan the area as you approach your vehicle when returning from shopping and as your approach your home.
• While shopping, or anytime you leave the home, give your house an occupied appearance. Criminals are aware that many people leave the light above the stove and/or light above the kitchen sink on when they are not home. Instead, use timers and leave a bedroom and/or bathroom light on when not home. Always avoid routines.
• When returning to your vehicle and you see or sense any suspicious activity, return to the mall or store and ask security to assist you - or dial the local police department.
• Do not overload your arms with bags and packages - criminals look for vulnerable victims.
• If possible, walk in the center of the parking lane to allow yourself to see any criminals hiding under or beside vehicles.
• Always check the front and back seats of your car before entering.
• Men - if you carry extra money, you should carry two wallets, one with a small amount of cash in the normal pocket, and the other wallet with your cash in a less conspicuous pocket or area.