STREETSENSE

Wherever you are on thestreet, in an office building or shopping mall, driving, waiting for a bus orcab, stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings.

Trust your instincts. Ifsomething or someone makes you uncomfortable, avoid the person or leave.

Know the neighborhoodswhere you live and work. Check out the locations of police and fire stations,public telephones, hospitals, and restaurants, or stores that are open late.

On Foot-Day or Night

· Stick to well-lighted,well-traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots, oralleys.

· Don't flash money or othertempting targets like jewelry or clothing.

· Carry a purse close to yourbody, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pantspocket, not a back pocket. Carry only what is necessary and try not to keepcurrency and credit cards all in one place.

· Don't wear shoes orclothing that restrict your movements.

· Have your car or house keyin hand before you reach the door.

· Try to use automated tellermachines in the daytime. Have your card in hand and don't approach the machineif you're uneasy about people nearby. Better yet, only use the ATM machinesinside of grocery store, malls, or gas stations.

· If you think someone isfollowing you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk toward an open store,restaurant, or lighted house. If someone harasses you, don't be embarrassed.Loudly say "Leave me alone! Someone call the police! Get away!"

Vehicle Safety

· Keep your car in goodrunning condition. Make sure there's enough gas to get where you're going andback.

· Always roll up the windowsand lock car doors, even if you're coming right back. Check inside and outbefore getting in.

· Avoid parking in isolatedareas. Be especially alert in lots and underground parking garages.

· If you think someone isfollowing you, don't head home. Drive to the nearest police or fire station,gas station, or other open business to get help

· If Someone Tries to Rob You

· Don’t resist. Give up yourproperty. Don't risk your life.

· Report the crime to thepolice. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions can help preventothers from being victims.

· Take a Stand!

· Make your neighborhood andworking place safer by reporting broken street lights, cleaning up parks andvacant lots, and lobbying local government for better lighting in publicplaces.

· Initiate a block watchprogram in your neighborhood by contacting your local crime prevention unit.