Safety

On the Street

• Travel in well-lit, well-traveled areas.
• If possible, walk in pairs.
• Walk facing traffic.
• Plan your route ahead of time.
• Know your neighborhood - be aware of nearby businesses, their hours of operation and their locations.
• Avoid shortcuts, bushy areas, and alleyways.
• Dress for ease of movement.
• If possible, don't carry a purse.
• Don't burden yourself with bulky packages or belongings.
• Walk assertively and maintain a sharp awareness of your surroundings.
• If you sense you are being followed, immediately cross to the opposite side of the street and head for the nearest open business or occupied dwelling.

In the Home

• Install good locks on doors and windows and use them.
• Install an eye-viewer in your door.
• Never automatically open your door without knowing who is on the other side. Talk through the door.
• Don't rely on chain latches and screen doors for security as they are no barrier to intruders.
• Instruct your children in safe door and telephone techniques.
• Don't answer questions asked over the telephone.
• Ask for identification from service people. If still not satisfied, call the business and verify that the visit is a legitimate one.

In Your Vehicle

• Have your keys in your hand when going to and from your vehicle.
• Lock the doors and roll up the windows whenever you leave your vehicle.
• Keep the doors and windows locked whenever you are in your vehicle.
• Prior to entering your vehicle, always check both under the car and behind the front seat.
• Park in well-lit, well populated areas.
• Be aware of your surroundings as you walk through parking lots - suspects often hide between parked cars.
• If your car breaks down, raise the hood and turn on the emergency flashers. Remain in your locked car until help arrives. If someone stops to offer assistance, ask them to send a tow truck or to contact local law enforcement. Talk through the window.
• If you are being followed, don't turn into your own driveway. Head for the nearest populated area or open business.

In a Social Situation

• When first meeting a new friend, exchange phone numbers, not addresses.
• Keep someone apprised of your whereabouts when dating a person for the first time.
• It is a good idea to refrain from going to bars and clubs alone. However, should you choose to do so, have your own transportation available, and use it.
• Don't allow alcohol or drugs to cloud your common sense.
• If a man persists in asking for your phone number, and you feel it would cause a problem should you refuse, give him a phony number (i.e., a recorded message).
• Know what your personal social standards are and stick to them. Don't allow your judgment to be overruled by an aggressive pursuer.