Purse Snatch and Pickpocket Prevention:

The Police Department would like you to know there are some people who will try to take your money, sometimes by grabbing your purse off your shoulder, pulling it out of your hands, taking it off a chair while you are not watching or by quietly taking your wallet while you are being distracted by something else. 

 

Remember that most thefts are “crimes of opportunity.” Therefore, the best way to prevent them is to remove the easy opportunities from would-be thieves. The following are some simple steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of being a victim of a purse snatcher or pickpocket:

Purse Snatch

• Get rid of what the thieves are after, in other words, do not carry a purse. Take only what you need, for example, a credit card and a small amount of cash, and put them in a coat or jacket pocket (an inside pocket, if possible).
• An alternative to putting your cash and credit cards in a pocket is to purchase a small lightweight travel pouch and wear it around your neck under your blouse or shirt. These pouches are available for less than $10.00 and can be found in luggage departments of department stores.
• If you need more room to carry larger items, such as a checkbook, another alternative to wearing the pouch is to wear a fanny pack, to the front. Be sure all openings are fastened and that the belt fastener is worn to the side so someone can't come up behind you and unsnap it, without you knowing it.
• If you must carry a purse, use one with a shoulder strap. The best way to wear it is to wear the strap diagonally across your body. Hold your purse firmly in front of your body.
• Carry your house keys in a separate location, such as your coat or jacket pocket, or wear them around your wrist or neck. The reason for this is if your purse is taken, the thief won't get the keys to your house since he will know your address from your identification.
• Never leave your purse unattended in a grocery cart, on a department store counter or in a fitting room.
• When you are riding the bus or sitting in a restaurant, never leave your purse on the seat beside or behind you. Either leave it in your lap or between your feet on the floor.

What should you do if someone does take your purse? If you can, be vocal. Yell, “He’s got my purse!”. Try to remember as much as you can about what he looked like, in particular his race, height and clothing. Call 9-1-1 and report it to the police immediately. The quicker the police know what happened and the description of the suspect, the greater the chances the suspect and your purse can be located.

Pickpockets
Pickpocket incidents happen just about everywhere: on buses, in the skyways, near elevators, anywhere there are crowds. What usually happens is someone will attempt to distract you by asking about bus schedules, directions, or the time, while their partner is busy helping themselves to your wallet. Here are some tips to prevent yourself from becoming a victim of this crime:

• For women, again, don’t carry a purse in the first place. If you do carry one, make sure all compartments are closed. Don’t leave valuables like credit cards or cash in open or outside pockets.
• For men, put your wallet in your front pants pocket or an inside coat pocket. You could also try carrying the travel pouch described above.
• If you are carrying a backpack, make sure all the zippers and compartments are closed.
• If someone bumps or jostles you or attempts to engage you in a conversation, keep in mind someone may be trying to take something from you.

In general, don’t carry a large amount of cash on you. Stay alert to your surroundings. Stand tall and walk confidently.

If you discover that your wallet has been taken, call the police immediately and make a report. Victims often don’t realize a theft has occurred until long after the thief has removed your wallet. Suspects use the identification and credit cards found in wallets to make as many purchases as they can before the credit card companies are notified. Replacing these items and straightening out what happened can take days, weeks, even months. In the meantime, these people can wreak havoc with your good name and credit rating.

Temptation – The Opportunity to Commit Crime:

Legal doctrine makes a clear distinction between crimes that are “premeditated” and those that happen without significant forethought or planning. In general terms, premeditated crimes (e.g., murder, bank robbery, etc.) are typically:

• More serious and destructive in nature
• Receive more significant punishments
• Occur much less frequently than those that are not as thoroughly planned
  

Many police officers observe this same distinction in the behavior of many criminals, particularly those who commit the crimes of theft and burglary. In fact, it is very often true that many crimes of theft and burglary occur because the “potential” criminal is presented with the temptation and opportunity to commit a criminal act. Therefore, if everyone can remove the temptation and the opportunity, there is a high probability that people can eliminate or drastically reduce the possibility of the crime being committed.

All year long, there are significant numbers of thefts from parked automobiles and open / unsecured garages. These crimes are often motivated by the temptation of seeing objects of value in plain view and the opportunity to take the objects with relatively low risk of being seen and/or apprehended.

What You Can Do
I suggest that you take the following action(s) to reduce your chance of being a victim of an opportunistic thief:

• Don’t leave objects of value in plain view. Consider covering open windows in garages. Place valuables in car trunk before you reach your destination (thieves may be watching).
• Lock car doors when you are away. Close garage doors and lock them.
• Provide extra security for particularly vulnerable targets (e.g., bicycles, power tools, etc.) inside the garage.
• Alert police to suspicious people loitering in alleys, near cars or garages.
• Record serial numbers of purchased items to aid in their recovery, in the event that they are stolen.

Remember, don’t do anything to make it easier for you to be victimized. Don’t provide a thief with either temptation or opportunity, and remember that by eliminating the potential of crime you have effectively eliminated your potential of becoming a victim of crime.

-Birdy

Fristelsen – mulighed for at begå kriminalitet:

Fristelsen - lejlighed og kriminalitet juridiske doktrin sondrer klart mellem forbrydelser, der er "overlagt" og dem, der sker uden betydelige omtanke eller planlægning. I generelle vendinger, overlagt forbrydelser (f.eks., mord, bankrøveri, etc.) er typisk: mere alvorlig og ødelæggende i naturen;

Modtage mere betydelige straffe;

Forekomme meget mindre hyppigt end dem, der ikke er så grundigt planlagt.

Mange politifolk observere denne samme sondring i funktionsmà ¥ den for mange kriminelle, især dem, der begår forbrydelser for tyveri og indbrud. Det er faktisk meget ofte sandt, at mange forbrydelser for tyveri og indbrud opstå, fordi den "potentielle" kriminelle præsenteres for fristelsen og mulighed for at begå en kriminel handling. Derfor, hvis alle kan fjerne fristelsen og lejlighed, er der en høj sandsynlighed at folk kan fjerne eller drastisk vil reducere muligheden for forbrydelsen begås.

Der er hele året lang betydeligt antal tyverier fra parkerede biler og åben / usikker garager. Disse forbrydelser er ofte motiveret af fristelsen til at se objekter af værdi i almindelig visning og mulighed for at tage objekter med relativt lav risiko for at blive set og/eller pågrebet.

Hvad du kan gøre

Jeg foreslår, at du tager følgende handlinger til at reducere din chance for at blive offer for en opportunistisk tyv: Don't leave objekter af værdi efter almindelig opfattelse. Overveje at dække åbne vinduer i garager. Placer værdigenstande i bilen trunk, før du når frem til din destination (tyvene kan holde øje).

Låse dørene i bilen, når du er væk. Luk garage døre og låse dem.

Giv ekstra sikkerhed for særligt sårbare mål (f.eks. cykler, power tools, etc.) inde i garagen.

Alarmere politi til mistænkelige personer slentre i stræder, nær biler eller garager.

Registrere serienumre for indkøbte varer til støtte i deres genopretning i tilfælde af at de bliver stjålet.

Husk, at ikke gøre noget for at gøre det lettere for dig at være offer for bedrageri. Ikke give en tyv fristelsen eller lejlighed, og Husk, at du ved at fjerne mulighederne for kriminalitet effektivt fjernet dit potentiale til at blive et offer for kriminalitet.

-Birdy

Tentation – l'occasion de commettre le Crime :

Tentation - opportunité et Crime doctrine juridique établit une distinction claire entre les crimes qui sont « prémédités » et ceux qui se produisent sans importante de réflexion ou de planification. En règle générale, les crimes avec préméditation (assassinat, vol de banque, etc.) sont en général : plus graves et destructrices dans la nature ;

Reçoivent des peines plus importantes ;

Se produisent beaucoup moins souvent que ceux qui ne sont pas aussi soigneusement planifiées.

Beaucoup de policiers observent cette même distinction dans le comportement de nombreux criminels, notamment ceux qui ont commis des crimes de vol et le cambriolage. En fait, il est très souvent vrai que de nombreux crimes de vol et le cambriolage se produisent parce que le criminel « potentiel » se présente avec la tentation et la possibilité de commettre un acte criminel. Par conséquent, si tout le monde peut supprimer la tentation et la possibilité, il y a une forte probabilité que les gens peuvent éliminer ou réduire drastiquement la possibilité du crime commis.

Tout au long de l'année, il y a un nombre important de vols dans les voitures garées et garages ouverts / non sécurisés. Ces crimes sont souvent motivés par la tentation de voir les objets de valeur dans la vue et la possibilité de prendre les objets avec un risque relativement faible d'être vu ou appréhendé.

Ce que vous pouvez faire

Je suggère que vous prenez ce qui suit mesures à prendre pour réduire vos chances d'être victime d'un voleur opportuniste : ne laissez pas des objets de valeur à la vue. Considérez couvrant les fenêtres ouvertes dans les garages. Placez vos objets de valeur dans le coffre de la voiture avant d'arriver à votre destination (les voleurs peuvent être regarder).

Verrouillez les portières lorsque vous êtes absent. Fermer les portes de garage et verrouillez-les.

Offre une sécurité supplémentaire pour les cibles particulièrement vulnérables (p. ex., vélos, outils électriques, etc.) à l'intérieur du garage.

Alerter la police à des personnes suspectes, flâner dans les ruelles, près des voitures ou des garages.

Enregistrements des numéros de série des articles achetés à l'aide à se rétablir, dans le cas où elles sont volées.

N'oubliez pas, ne font rien pour rendre plus facile pour vous d'être victimes d'intimidation. Ne fournir un voleur avec tentation ou occasion et n'oubliez pas que, en éliminant la possibilité d'un crime, vous avez éliminé efficacement votre potentiel de devenir une victime de la criminalité.

-Birdy

Temptation – die Möglichkeit, Verbrechen zu begehen:

Versuchung - Gelegenheit und Kriminalität Rechtslehre wird klar unterschieden zwischen Verbrechen, die "vorsätzlich sind" und diejenigen, die ohne erhebliche Vorsorge oder Planung geschehen. Allgemein, vorsätzliche Straftaten (z. B. Mord, Bankraub, etc.) sind in der Regel: ernster und zerstörende Natur;

Erhalten Sie mehr erhebliche Strafen;

Treten Sie auf, viel seltener als jene, die nicht so gründlich geplant werden.

Viele Polizisten beobachten diese gleichen Unterschieden im Verhalten der viele Kriminelle, insbesondere diejenigen, die die Verbrechen von Diebstahl und Einbruch zu begehen. In der Tat ist es sehr oft wahr, dass viele Verbrechen von Diebstahl und Einbruch auftreten, weil die "potenzielle" Kriminelle mit die Versuchung und die Chance, eine strafbare Handlung begehen präsentiert wird. Daher, wenn jeder die Versuchung und die Möglichkeit entfernen kann, gibt es eine hohe Wahrscheinlichkeit, dass Menschen können beseitigen oder die Möglichkeit, das Verbrechen drastisch zu reduzieren.

Das ganze Jahr, gibt es bedeutende Zahlen der Diebstähle aus geparkten Autos und offen / ungesicherte Garagen. Diese Verbrechen sind oft motiviert durch die Versuchung des Sehens Gegenstände von Wert in der normalen Ansicht und die Möglichkeit, die Objekte mit relativ geringem Risiko gesehen bzw. wahrgenommen wird.

Was können Sie tun

Ich schlage vor, dass Sie die folgenden nehmen Aktion(en) reduzieren Ihre Chance, ein Opfer von einem opportunistischen Thief: lassen Sie Gegenstände von Wert nicht in der normalen Ansicht. Sollten Sie mit geöffnete Fenstern in den Garagen. Platzieren Sie Wertsachen im Kofferraum, bevor Sie Ihr Ziel erreichen (Diebe können beobachtet werden).

Autotüren zu sperren, wenn Sie weg sind. Garagentore geschlossen und verriegelt werden können.

Bieten Sie zusätzliche Sicherheit für besonders gefährdete Ziele (z. B. Fahrräder, Elektrowerkzeuge, etc.) innerhalb der Garage.

Alarmieren Sie die Polizei, um verdächtige Personen Bummeln in Gassen, in der Nähe von Autos oder Garagen.

Rekord Seriennummern der gekauften Artikel um ihre Genesung zu unterstützen, wenn sie gestohlen werden.

Denken Sie daran, nicht alles tun, um sein Opfer erleichtern. Keinen Dieb mit Versuchung oder Chance bieten und denken Sie daran, dass durch den Wegfall des Potenzials der Kriminalität effektiv Ihr Potenzial zu Opfer eines Verbrechens werden beseitigt haben.

-Birdy

Tentazione – la possibilità di commettere reati:

Tentazione - opportunità e criminalità dottrina legale fa una netta distinzione tra i crimini che sono "premeditati" e quelli che accadono senza premeditazione significativi o pianificazione. In termini generali, premeditati crimini (per esempio, omicidio, rapina in banca, ecc.) sono in genere: più grave e distruttivo in natura;

Ricevere punizioni più significative;

Si verificano molto meno frequentemente rispetto a quelli che non sono così accuratamente pianificato.

Molti agenti di polizia di osservare questa stessa distinzione nel comportamento di molti criminali, particolarmente coloro che commettono crimini di furto, furto con scasso. Infatti, molto spesso è vero che molti crimini di furto, furto con scasso si verificano perché il "potenziale" criminale è presentato con la tentazione e la possibilità di commettere un atto criminale. Pertanto, se tutti possono rimuovere la tentazione e la possibilità, vi è un'alta probabilità che le persone possono eliminare o ridurre drasticamente la possibilità del reato.

Tutto l'anno, ci sono un numero significativo di furti da automobili parcheggiate e garage aperti / chirografari. Questi crimini sono spesso motivati dalla tentazione di vedere gli oggetti di valore in vista e la possibilità di prendere gli oggetti con un rischio relativamente basso di visto e/o fermati.

Cosa si può fare

Suggeriamo di prendere il seguente azioni per ridurre le probabilità di essere vittima di un ladro opportunista: non lasciare oggetti di valore in vista. Si consideri che coprono le finestre aperte in garage. Gli oggetti di valore posto nel bagagliaio, prima di raggiungere la vostra destinazione (possono essere guardando ladri).

Bloccare porte auto quando si è lontani. Chiudere le porte da garage e bloccarle.

Fornire maggiore sicurezza per obiettivi particolarmente vulnerabili (ad esempio, biciclette, utensili, ecc.) all'interno del garage.

Avviso polizia diffidente vagabondaggio nei vicoli, nei pressi di auto o garage.

Registrare numeri di serie dei prodotti acquistati per aiutare nella loro ripristino, nel caso in cui essi vengono rubati.

Ricordate, non fanno nulla per rendere più facile per voi di essere vittime. Non fornire un ladro con tentazione o opportunità e ricordo che eliminando il potenziale della criminalità si hanno effettivamente eliminato il vostro potenziale di diventare una vittima del crimine.

-Birdy

Искушение – возможность совершения преступления:

Искушение - возможность и преступностью, правовой доктрины делает четкое различие между преступлениями, которые являются «предумышленные» и те, которые происходят без значительных предусмотрительности или планирования. В общих чертах, умышленные преступления (например, убийство, ограбление банка, и т.д.), как правило: более серьезный и разрушительной в природе;

Получить более значительные наказания;

Возникают гораздо реже, чем те, которые не планировались как тщательно.

Многие сотрудники полиции соблюдать это же различие в поведении многих преступников, особенно тех, кто совершает преступления воровства и взлома. В самом деле очень часто верно, что многие преступления воровства и взлома происходят потому, что «потенциал» уголовного представлена искушение и возможность совершить преступное деяние. Таким образом если каждый может удалить искушение и возможность, существует высокая вероятность того, что люди могут устранить или существенно уменьшить вероятность преступления.

Круглый год существует значительное число краж из припаркованных автомобилей и открытые / необеспеченных гаражей. Эти преступления часто мотивированы искушение видеть объекты значения в равнинной мнению и возможность принимать объекты с относительно низким риском видел и/или задержаны.

Что вы можете сделать

Я предлагаю что вы принимаете следующие действия уменьшить ваши шансы стать жертвой оппортунистических вор: не оставляйте объектов значения в равнинной мнению. Рассмотрим, охватывающих открытые окна в гаражах. Место ценностей в багажник автомобиля, прежде чем вы достигнете вашего назначения (воров может смотреть).

Замок двери автомобиля, когда вы уезжаете. Закройте двери гаража и заблокировать их.

Обеспечивают дополнительную безопасность для особо уязвимых целей (например, велосипеды, инструменты и т.д.) внутри гаража.

Предупреждение полиции для подозрительных людей, слонялся в переулках, вблизи автомобили или гаражи.

Запись серийные номера приобретенных товаров для оказания помощи в их реабилитации, в том случае, если они были украдены.

Помните, не делают ничего, чтобы сделать его проще для вас, чтобы стать жертвой. Не предоставляют вор с искушением или возможность и помните, что устраняя потенциал преступности вы эффективно устранены ваш потенциал стать жертвой преступления.

-Птичка

Tentación – la oportunidad de cometer un delito:

Tentación - oportunidad y doctrina Legal hace una clara distinción entre los delitos que son "premeditados" y los que ocurren sin previsión significativa o planificación de la delincuencia. En términos generales, crímenes premeditados (por ejemplo, asesinato, atraco, etc.) son típicamente: más graves y destructivos en la naturaleza;

Recibir castigos más significativos;

Ocurren mucho menos frecuentemente que aquellos que no están tan bien planificado.

Muchos policías observar esta misma distinción en el comportamiento de muchos criminales, particularmente aquellos que cometen los delitos de robo y allanamiento de morada. De hecho, muy a menudo es cierto que muchos delitos de robo y allanamiento de morada se producen porque el penal "potencial" se presenta con la tentación y la oportunidad para cometer un acto criminal. Por lo tanto, si todo el mundo puede quitar la tentación y la oportunidad, hay una alta probabilidad de que la gente puede eliminar o reducir drásticamente la posibilidad de que el delito que cometen.

Durante el año, hay un número significativo de robos de automóviles estacionados y garajes abiertos / no seguras. Estos crímenes son a menudo motivados por la tentación de ver objetos de valor en la vista y la oportunidad de tomar los objetos con relativamente bajo riesgo de ser visto o detenido.

Lo que puedes hacer

Sugiero que tome las siguientes acciones para reducir sus probabilidades de ser víctima de un ladrón oportunista: no deje objetos de valor en la vista. Considere la posibilidad de cubrir ventanas abiertas en garajes. Colocar objetos en el maletero del automóvil antes de llegar a su destino (los ladrones pueden estar viendo).

Bloquear las puertas del vehículo cuando usted está ausente. Cierre de puertas de garaje y bloquearlos.

Proporcionar seguridad adicional para objetivos particularmente vulnerables (por ejemplo, bicicletas, herramientas eléctricas, etc.) dentro del garaje.

Policía alerta a las personas sospechosas merodeando en callejones, cerca de coches o garajes.

Registrar números de serie de artículos comprados para ayudar en su recuperación, en caso de que ellos son robados.

Recuerde, no hacen nada para hacerlo más fácil para que usted pueda ser víctimas. No proporcionar a un ladrón con la tentación y oportunidad y recuerda que al eliminar el potencial de la delincuencia ha eliminado eficazmente su potencial de convertirse en víctima de un crimen.

-Birdy

KIDS CAN STOP CRIME

CRIME PREVENTION AND SAFETY TIP:

KIDS CAN STOP CRIME

When it comes to crime, no one is exempt from victimization, especially children. There are several things that kids can do to protect themselves and their families.

The following tips are presented in an effort to safeguard our young citizens from potentially violent situations. So kids (and parents), this column is for you.

1. Don't open the door to someone you and your family doesn’t know and trust.
2. Don't take shortcuts through alleys and abandoned lots. Stay on main streets.
3. Don't approach people in vehicles that stop to ask directions. Turn and walk to where there are people present.
4. Say no to drugs. Don't be a victim and harm your health. Choose friends that are against violence and drugs.
5. Don't hang out around places that always have problems. If you see people fighting, don't stop to watch. If someone has a weapon, they won't care about your safety if they use it.
6. If you can't settle a dispute by offering your opinion and advice, simply walk away before it escalates.
7. If you see a firearm that is unattended, assume it is loaded and don't touch it! If you see a friend playing with a gun, tell him or her to put it down, and immediately get away from the area. Then tell an adult or the police at once.
8. If you know your friend does not have a driver's license, or the car they are driving is not theirs, don't get inside. This is especially true if the car is stolen. The driver may panic and wreck the car causing you pain, injury, or worse.
9. Don't go into abandoned houses or buildings. Not only are you trespassing, but also there may be someone inside that could harm you.
10. If you see a crime, report it to the police. It is the right thing to do. If you were a victim, you would want someone to look out for you.
11. Never give out personal information on the telephone regarding your family or yourself. Never give out personal identification numbers, like social security numbers, telephone numbers, driver's license numbers, or your date of birth.
12. Never let people in your home when your parents are not there to authorize it.
13. Let your parents meet and get to know your friends. Give your parents their telephone number and address.
14. Don't be afraid to tell your parents or other adult if someone touches you improperly. Remember it is not your fault, and it is something "they" did that is wrong.

If you have any questions about what to do in a criminal situation, ask a police officer for advice.

Remember, keeping our children safe from harm should be a top priority in today's society. They are, after all, the next generation.

-Birdy

Again DON'T BE A VICTIM

Police Crime Tips
The Police Department's mission is to protect the public safety of all citizens, but the officers can not do it without the eyes and ears of you - the community.

At home?
Lock your doors and windows when leaving your residence. Most residential burglaries occur during the daytime. Know who is at your door before opening it.

Screen doors and chain locks provide false security. Obtain identification. If they show you an ID for a service company (i.e.Cable, phone, etc.)call their employer and verify who they are and why they are at your door. Consider installing peepholes in all entryway doors. Mark your property with your Driver License number, that way it can be traced ONLY to you if it is stolen.

Remember the three L's of Crime Prevention: LIGHTS, LOCKS & the LAW! Light up your residence, lock your doors at all times, and call the Law when you see something suspicious


Alarmed
Prior to installing home-security devices - think fire safety first. Would the device prevent you from getting out of your home? Do you have pet doors? They provide entry for pets, but they may also provide entry for criminals. Privacy fences give you privacy, but they also give the criminal concealment from outside view. Secure your garage door, even when you are at home. Burglaries and thefts take minutes or even seconds to commit.

DON'T open your door until you know who is there. When you are not home, leave lamps on timers and consider leaving a radio or television on. Consider leaving porch lights on at night. LIGHTING is one of the most INEXPENSIVE crime deterrents. Secure your keys and keep them out of view. NEVER place identification tags on your key rings. Treat your garage door opener like your keys.

NEVER leave your garage door opener inside a vehicle which is parked outside. Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed for better visibility. Keep windows clear and free of shrubbery and debris. Overgrowth may provide hiding places for criminals.

While On vacation
When leaving town, have a trusted friend or neighbor take care of your home. NEVER cancel general deliveries such as mail, milk, newspapers and other services when leaving town or going on vacation. But don't let those newspaper deliveries pile up either. If you will be away for an extended period arrange to have a neighbor cut your lawn. If you can, also have them move your car in the driveway so it appears you are still coming and going as usual. And NEVER leave your porch light on ONLY when you go on vacation. This tells a thief come on in...we are on vacation!

Out on the town
Remove your keys and lock your doors when leaving your vehicle. It only takes seconds to steal a locked car without the keys - why make it easier for a thief by leaving the keys in the car? And NEVER leave extra keys inside the vehicle or under the hood.

Secure your valuables in your trunk or take them with you. Don't create temptation by leaving valuables within view inside your vehicle. When returning to your vehicle at night, be aware of your surroundings. Look underneath and inside your vehicle before entering.

You make the call!
The MOST important thing YOU can do is CALL THE POLICE to report a CRIME or any SUSPICIOUS activity. You have to be the eyes of your neighborhood. And remember you can always remain a pair of anonymous eyes!

Getting personal
Stay alert by being aware of your surroundings.

Walk everywhere with a sense of purpose - show you are calm, confident and know where you are going.

Go with your gut feelings - if you feel uncomfortable, leave.

Carry your purse firmly and close to your body or better yet leave it at home and only carry what you need in your pocket - such as a small amount of money, keys, and maybe one credit card.

Keep your wallet in an inside coat or side trouser pocket.

Have your car or house key in your hand as you approach the door. If attacked use those keys as weapons!

Park in well-lighted areas that will be well-lighted when you return. Be sure to lock your car doors. If you jog, do not jog alone in isolated areas.

Do not hitchhike and never pick up hitchhikers.

Only list your last name and first initial in the phone book and on mail boxes.
Ask the phone company to not list your address in the book.

If you are concerned about crime and must go out, use the buddy system. Take a friend on that jog around your neighborhood. You'll both benefit from it!


Victimized
Remain calm. Try not to panic or show any signs of anger or confusion.

If the attacker is after your property, don't resist. That watch, car, money - whatever is replaceable - YOU ARE NOT!

Don't escalate this crime into a violent encounter. But NEVER let your assailant take you to another location. Your chance of survival is slim.

Make an effort to get an accurate description of your attacker: age, sex, race, complexion, body build, height, weight, type and color of clothing.

Call the police immediately, identify yourself and give your exact location. Do not leave the scene.

When you call 911 you will be asked several questions by the Call Taker. Be patient. While your are answering their questions they are keying in your information and dispatching the next available car. Any information you can provide to the dispatcher may help the officer en route to your call with apprehending the suspect.

Be ready to provide the following information:
Your Name

Address

Phone Number

What Happened? Describe the event in as brief manner as possible.

When Did it Happen? Tell if the crime is in progress or when it occurred.

Who Did It? Name or describe the suspect or vehicle, if there is one.

Where Did They Go? Which way and how did they leave?

Wait for the officer to arrive or to call you back. The time it takes for an officer to arrive will depend on many factors. All police calls are prioritized by emergency status.

A theft of personal property may be aggravating but it is not considered as an emergency.When the officer arrives he/she may ask you questions similar to those asked earlier. Please be patient so the police officer can help you.

-Birdy

More Anti-Crime Tips: DON'T BECOME A VICTIM

Anti-Crime Tips
There are many simple precautions you can take to avoid becoming the victim of a crime. Many of them are just plain common sense, but we all forget from time-to-time.

While some crimes are carefully planned and executed, many are so-called 'crimes of opportunity.' If your actions make it appear easy and tempting for someone else to commit a crime, you could suddenly find yourself in the middle of a crime scene.

Burglary Tips
Purchase an alarm system for your home or business and use it whenever you're away.

It is also a good idea to have your home alarm activated while you're asleep.

Install motion sensor lights at the front and rear of your home or business.

Make sure you keep your doors and windows locked. Do not hide a key outside of your home, because criminals know all the places that you can think of to hide it.

Install double keyed deadbolt locks on all exterior doors if there is a window within arms reach of the interior lock. Make sure you keep a key readily available near each door in the event of a fire.

Make sure that you pick-up your mail and newspapers on a daily basis. If you're not going to be at home for a few days or longer, arrange to have someone you trust pick-up your mail and newspapers every day.

Keep the shrubbery and trees located next to your windows cut down so that criminals will not have a place to hide while they are prying open your window.

When you're going to be away from home on vacation put several interior lights on a timer, making sure you set them to go on and off at different times.

Make sure your neighbors know to call the police immediately if they see any suspicious activity at your home.

Financial/White Collar Tips

When using an ATM machine, make sure that no one is watching you enter your PIN number.

Check your credit history at least once a year to make sure that no unauthorized people have opened any accounts in your name.

Shred the pre-approved credit card applications that you receive in the mail before throwing them away.

When receiving credit cards and / or checks through the mail, make sure you check your mailbox promptly everyday to help reduce the possibility of someone stealing them out of your mailbox.When accepting checks as payment for anything, make sure the check is good prior to delivering the purchased item to the buyer. Bank checks are very easy to forge.

If your wallet or purse is lost or stolen, make sure you notify your bank and credit card companies as soon as possible.

If the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Never give your social security number or bank account numbers to anyone over the telephone or via e-mail unless you're absolutely sure that the person/company you are talking with is legitimate.

Try to use Direct Deposit whenever possible.

Make sure that your driver's license number is not the same as your social security number.

Do not leave your credit card receipts where people may find them. (Some businesses still print your entire charge account number on their receipts.) When throwing them away, make sure you shred them completely.

When discarding your credit card statements, make sure that you shred them completely.

Be aware of the possibility of fraud when making purchases over the Internet.

General Crime Tips

When you see suspicious activity, contact the police immediately. We would much rather respond and determine that everything is okay than not be called and learn later on that a crime was committed.

Try to remember as much as you can about the suspicious person(s) or vehicle(s) so you can provide that information to the police. Write the information down if at all possible. Clothing descriptions, scars, marks, tattoos, voice impediments, jewelry worn, physical deformities and anything else that may help us identify the perpetrator(s) are important.

When noting information about suspect vehicles, the Make, Model, color, number of doors, body damage, tag number, number of occupants, type of wheels, and anything else that may be unique to that vehicle are important to us.

Make every effort to obtain a tag number from the suspect vehicle(s), as well as the direction it traveled when it left the area.

If you witness a crime, please report it immediately and make sure you stay around so an officer can take your statement.

If you look like a victim and act like a victim, you're more likely to become a victim. Be aware of potential dangers and make every effort to protect yourself, your family, and your property.

Robbery Tips

Do not loiter in the parking lot of a business or apartment complex.
If at all possible, never walk alone.

When walking to or from a location, take the most direct route possible.

Do not walk in secluded areas or hang out in unoccupied or abandoned buildings.

Do not accept rides from, or offer rides to people that you do not know.

Do not open the door for anyone unless you know them personally. If the person tells you that they need help, advise them that you will call the POLICE for them. Do not let them into your home to use your telephone.

Do not carry large amounts of cash or wear a lot of jewelry.

Make sure your wallet or purse is carried in a manner that will make it difficult for someone to grab.

Do not count your money in public.Do not leave your purse unattended in a shopping cart or on the front seat of your vehicle. Do not place yourself in harms way by frequenting areas where criminal activity is prevalent.

Always be aware of your surroundings and the activity going on around you. If your instincts tell you that something is wrong and to be alarmed, pay attention and remove yourself from the potentially dangerous situation.

Vehicle Crime Prevention Tips

Keep the doors to your vehicle locked whenever it is unoccupied.

Do not leave any items of value in your vehicle. If you must leave valuables in the vehicle, please keep them in the trunk and out of sight.

Do not leave your vehicle running while you enter a store to pay for gas or to make a purchase.

Never leave your keys in your vehicle.

When selling your vehicle, make sure that you verify that the check used to pay for the vehicle is good before you allow the buyer to take possession of the vehicle. Be aware that it is very easy to forge a cashier's or bank check.

Always try to park your vehicle in an area that is well lighted.

Do not allow anyone to borrow your vehicle unless you know and trust them completely.

Park your vehicle in your locked garage whenever possible.



-Birdy

Safety Information: How to Be Streetwise and Safe

Knowing how to protect yourself can reduce the opportunity for muggers, purse snatchers and other criminals to strike.

Four Basic Rules

• DO stay alert. Keep your mind on your surroundings, who's in front of you, and who's behind you. Don't get distracted. If you're worried about crime, ask a friend to accompany you when you go out.
• DO communicate the message that you're calm, confident, and know where you're going. Stand tall, walk purposefully, and make quick eye contact with people around you.
• DO trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in a place or situation, leave.
• DO know the neighborhoods where you live and work. Check out the locations of police and fire stations, public telephones, hospitals, restaurants, and stores that are open late.

In The Car

• Keep your car in good running condition to avoid breakdowns.
• Drive with all your doors locked. Keep windows rolled up whenever possible.
• Take the time to check the inside of your vehicle before you get into it. If anything looks disturbed or suspicious, contact a friend or call 9-1-1 to have a deputy check out the car before you get into it alone.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
• If you see another motorist in trouble, signal that you will get help and then go to a telephone and call 9-1-1.
• If your car breaks down (and you do not have a cell phone), raise the hood, use flares, or tie a white cloth to the door handle or antenna. Stay in the locked car. When someone stops, ask them to phone for help.
• Park in well-lighted areas that will still be well-lighted when you return. Lock your car doors.
• Be particularly alert and careful when using underground and enclosed parking garages.
• If you are being followed while driving, drive to the nearest police or fire station, open gas station or other business, or well-lighted residence where you can safely call 9-1-1. Try to get the car's license number and description. If no safe areas are near, honk the horn repeatedly and turn on your emergency flashers.

When Walking

• Plan the safest route to your destination and use it. Choose well-lighted busy streets and avoid passing vacant lots, alleys, or construction sites. Take the long way if it is the safest.
• Know your neighborhood. Find out what stores and restaurants are open late and where the police and fire stations are.
• Make sure you know where your children are going and when they go out, and encourage them to play with other kids. Show them safe places in the neighborhood where they can go if they ever feel scared.
• Carry your purse close to your body and keep a firm grip on it. Carry a wallet in an inside coat or side trouser pocket, not in a rear trouser pocket.
• Do not flaunt expensive jewelry or clothing.
• Talk while you are facing traffic so you can see approaching cars.
• Know businesses that are open.

In Elevators

• Look in the elevator before getting in to be sure no one is hiding.
• Stand near the controls.
• Get off if someone suspicious enters. If you're worried about someone who is waiting for the elevator with you, pretend you forgot something and do not get on. (Do not worry about hurting someone's feelings-keeping safe should be your first priority.)
• If you are attacked, hit the alarm and as many floor buttons as possible.

Jogging, Biking, and Other Outdoor Activities

• Choose routes in advance that are safe and well populated.
• Vary your route and schedule.
• Avoid jogging and biking at night.
• Consider carrying a "shriek" alarm.
• Do not wear headphones - it is important to remain alert.

What if It Happens To You?

• Try to remain calm, try not to panic or show any signs of anger or confusion.
• If the attacker is only after your purse or other valuables, do not resist. You do not want to escalate a property crime into a violent confrontation.
• Make a conscious effort to get an accurate description of your attacker: age, race, complexion, body build, height, weight, type and color of clothing.
• Call 9-1-1 immediately, identify yourself and your location. Contact your local victim assistance agency to help you deal with the trauma that all crime victims experience. They can also help you learn about victim compensation laws and how to follow your case's progress.

On Foot: Day or Night

• Stick to well-lighted, well-traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots, or alleys.
• Do not flash money or other tempting targets like jewelry or clothing.
• Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket, not a back pocket. Carry only what is necessary and try not to keep currency and credit cards all in one place.
• Do not wear shoes or clothing that restrict your movements.
• Have your car or house key in hand before you reach the door.
• Try to use automated teller machines in the daytime. Have your card in hand and don't approach the machine if you're uneasy about people nearby. Better yet, only use the ATM machines inside of grocery stores, malls, or gas stations.
• If you think someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk toward an open store, restaurant, or lighted house. If someone harasses you, do not be embarrassed. Loudly say, "Leave me alone! Someone call 9-1-1! Get away!"

If Someone Tries to Rob You

• Do not resist. Give up your property. Do not risk your life.
• Report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions can help prevent others from being victims. Take a Stand!
• Make your neighborhood and working place safer by reporting broken street lights, cleaning up parks and vacant lots, and lobbying local government for better lighting in public places.
• Initiate a Block Watch program in your neighborhood by contacting your local crime prevention unit.

Family Vacation -- Fun and Safety

Planning a family vacation? Whether the destination is Disneyland, Denver, or Denmark, there are certain things to keep in mind. Making the trip fun and enjoyable for everyone is key. But just as important to the success of your trip will be the steps you take to make it a safe one.

Before You Leave

Preventing crime during family travel starts with making sure your home is protected while you are away. The key is to make it look like you never left.

• Keep shades and blinds in their normal positions.
• Stop mail and newspapers, or ask a neighbor to pick them up every day.
• Put timers on several household lights so they turn on and off at appropriate times.
• Arrange to have the grass mowed while you're gone.
• Make sure all of your door and window locks are in working order and make sure to use them.
• Activate your home alarm system (if you have one).
• Contact your local police department and have them conduct vacation house checks while you are away.
• You might even leave a radio on, or put it on a timer. Ask a neighbor to park in your driveway overnight--anything that might suggest someone is home. And, do not forget to lock all doors and windows when you leave.

Packing For Prevention

Preparing for a family trip requires a lot of planning. You need to decide where you are going, where you will stay, and how you will get from one place to another. You also need to decide what to take with you. Planning can decrease the chances of crime joining you on your journey. Listed below are some some tips on what to take:

• Clean out your wallet or purse before you go; take only essential credit cards. Plan to use credit cards or traveler's checks instead of cash whenever possible.
• Carry your purse close to your body or your wallet in an inside front pocket. Better yet, take a "fanny pack" or wear a money pouch under your clothes.
• Pack as lightly as possible. Lots of heavy, cumbersome bags will slow you down and make you more vulnerable to robbery.
• Expensive, designer luggage can draw unneeded attention to your belongings. Pack your things in inconspicuous bags.
• Keep a separate record of the contents of checked luggage, and keep anything of value such as medicine and jewelry in a carry-on that stays with you.

Out and About

Your home is secured and you are packed. Now it is time to go. While you and your family are traveling, it is important to remember that tourists make tempting targets for thieves. Often lost or distracted, weighed down with bags, and carrying cameras, plane tickets, money and other valuables, unsuspecting travelers can attract crime like a magnet.

• The best advice for you and your family is to do all that you can to blend in with the crowd.
• Do not display expensive jewelry, cameras, bags, and other items that might draw attention.
• Check maps before you go out so you can tour confidently.
• Stick to well-lighted, well traveled streets at all times--no shortcuts.
• Always lock your car when it is parked, even if the stop is brief. Keep valuables out of sight, preferably locked in the trunk. Do not advertise that you are a tourist by leaving maps and guidebooks on the seat or dashboard--keep them in the glove compartment.
• Traveling safely with your family also means sticking together and keeping an eye on your children at all times. Make sure they know where you are staying (name and address) and teach them what to do if they get lost or separated. You might want to agree on a meeting place, just in case. And by all means, make sure your kids know not to accept rides or favors from strangers. Make your family vacation a memorable one for all the right reasons.

Firearm Safety Information: "Lock-It-Up" Campaign

In 1997 the Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center convened a coalition of health, public safety, education and community organizations to address the problem of easy access to handguns by children and adolescents. Unsecured firearms in the home, particularly handguns, pose a significant risk for accidental injury and death, suicide and gun theft. The current LOCK-IT-UP campaign grew out of this original coalition.

The target audience is the gun owner who feels the need to keep a gun unlocked and loaded. When handguns are kept for self-protection, they are often kept loaded and readily available. This situation is particularly dangerous in homes where children and adolescents either live or are frequent visitors.

Law enforcement personnel were considered credible gun safety authorities by focus groups of handgun owners. Police have knowledge of firearms and firearms safety, yet are not perceived as a threat to gun ownership. When possible, law enforcement personnel were utilized to promote safe storage of firearms.

The LOCK-IT-UP partners have coordinated to create and distribute compatible and consistent messages about safe firearm storage throughout King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. Consistent and repeated messages are critical to changing community standards and norms in the direction of personal and community responsibility for the safe storage of guns. LOCK-IT-UP partners have developed and implemented a number of intervention strategies and are eager to share the successes and experiences with other interested communities and parties.

To learn more about the "LOCK-IT-UP" Campaign, and what you can do to better protect children from firearms, please visit their website at: www.lokitup.org.

Tips for Safe and Happy Holidays

This holiday season, do not let the spirit of giving lull you into giving burglars, muggers, and pickpockets a better chance to do their dirty work. Crooks love the holidays as much as everyone else, but chiefly because it is an opportune time for crime.

Homes jam-packed with glittering gifts. Stores, malls, and downtown streets teeming with unsuspecting shoppers. People rushing around, stressed out and careless, looking for last-minute gifts, trying to get everything done. It is enough to make a crook giddy with holiday joy!

Here are some tips on how to celebrate safely this holiday season:

If You Are Traveling:

• Purchase an automatic timer for your lights.
• Ask a neighbor to watch your home.
• Do not forget to have mail and newspaper delivery stopped. If it piles up, it is a sure sign you are gone.

If You Are Out For The Evening:

• Turn on lights and a radio or TV so it looks like someone is home.
• Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave, even if it is just for a few minutes.
• Do not display gifts where they can be seen from the outside.

If You Are Shopping:

• Stay alert and be aware of what is going on around you.
• Park in a well-lighted space, and be sure to lock the car, close the windows, and hide shopping bags and gifts in the trunk.
  Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; pay with a check or credit card whenever possible.
• Deter pickpockets and purse-snatchers. Do not overburden yourself with packages. Be extra careful with purses and wallets.
• Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.
• Shopping with children? Teach them to go to a store clerk or security guard if you get separated. 

If a Stranger Comes to the Door - Beware!

Criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts. And, it is not uncommon for people to try to take advantage of others' generosity during the holidays by going door-to-door for charitable donations when there is no charity involved. Ask for identification, and find out how the funds will be used. If you are not satisfied, do not give. Help a charitable organization you know and like instead.

Last but not least, do not let holiday stress get the best of your holiday spirit. Make time to get together with family, friends, and neighbors, and think about reaching out in the spirit of the season to help someone who is less fortunate or lonely.

Do your part to make the holidays a safe and happy time for everybody-except criminals!

Home Security Systems

A few "bad apples" have given home security system salespeople a poor reputation. Some are swindlers who will scare homeowners into purchasing their products and even inflate the price to line their own pockets. They may talk customers into a rollover contract that self-renews, forcing the homeowner to pay for another period without authorization.

If you're looking into a home security system, here are a few things to keep in mind to keep from being swindled:

• Take your time shopping and researching.
• If a security company wants to charge you more then $50 per month for monitoring, don't do business with them and search for another company. Some companies will quote a very low price on the equipment and its installation and then have an extremely high monthly monitoring fee.
• Is the monitoring station UL approved? Is the station properly staffed and trained? Gather price quotes from various companies for security and include smoke and fire monitoring.
• Make a drawing of your home, or a checklist, and figure out how many doors and windows you need to protect.
• Call your insurance agent and ask what discounts are available on your homeowners insurance and what requirements a security system must meet for you to qualify.
• Do not lease a burglar alarm.
• Always contact the Washington State Burglar and Fire Alarm Association for references and referrals. Their number is 800.248.9272.
• If a salesperson tries to scare you into buying their alarm system, terminate your conversation with them. If they have to scare you into buying their product, how good could it really be? If you want to find out what the criminal statistics are for your particular area (for all crimes) then contact your Community Outreach Deputy at (360) 786-5855 for a report.
• If an alarm representative tells you that their system connects directly to the 9-1-1 system, terminate your conversation with them immediately. This is against the law and they are lying to you in order to obtain your business. Immediately report them to the Better Business Bureau.

Identity Theft

How Identity Thieves Work

• They open a new credit card account, using your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. When they use the credit card and don't pay the bills, the delinquent account is reported on your credit report.
• They call your credit card issuer and, pretending to be you, change the mailing address on your credit card account. Then, your impostor runs up charges on your account. Because your bills are being sent to the new address, you may not immediately realize there is a problem.
• They establish cellular phone service in your name.
• They open a bank account in your name and write bad checks on that account.

Kids Home Alone: A Parent's Guide

Families with working parents make up the majority of American families today. These parents share the anxiety, frustration, and even fear involved in leaving children "on their own" when school lets out, child care arrangements with neighbors and relatives break down, or there simply are not any alternatives.

What Can You Do?

• Make sure your children are ready to care for themselves.
• Teach them basic safety rules.
• Know where your kids are, what they are doing, and who they are with.

Are They Ready? Can Your Children:

• Be trusted to go straight home after school?
• Easily use the telephone, locks, and kitchen appliances?
• Follow rules and instructions well?
• Handle unexpected situations without panicking?
• Stay alone without being afraid or lonely?

Talk it over with them and listen to their worries and ideas. Work out rules on having friends over, household chores, homework, and television. Remember: staying at home alone can build a child's self-esteem, sense of responsibility, and practical skills.

Teach "Home Alone" Children:

• How to call 9-1-1.
• How to give directions to your home in case of an emergency.
• To check in with you or a neighbor immediately after arriving home.
• To never accepts gifts or rides from people they don't know well.
• How to use the door, window locks, and the alarm system if you have one.
• To never let anyone into the home without asking your permission.
• To never let a caller at the door or on the phone know that they’re alone (say "Mom can't come to the phone right now").
• To carry a house key with them in a safe place (inside a shirt pocket or sock) - do not leave it under a mat or on a ledge.
• How to escape in case of fire.
• To not go into an empty house or apartment if things do not look right - a broken window, ripped screen, or opened door.
• To let you know about anything that frightens them or makes them feel uncomfortable.

School Safety

When crime, drugs, and violence spill over from the streets into schools, providing a safe learning environment becomes increasingly difficult. More students carry weapons. Gunfights replace fistfights. Many students must travel through dealer or gang turf. Violence becomes an acceptable way to settle conflicts. When this happens, children cannot learn and teachers cannot teach.

Creating a safe place where children can learn and grow depends on a partnership among students, parents, teachers, and other community institutions.

To help prevent school violence

• Find out how crime threatens schools in your community.
• Take action to protect children.
• Promote nonviolent ways to manage conflict.

How do these ideals translate into action? Here are some practical suggestions for young people, parents, school staff and others in the community.

Students

• Settle arguments with words, not fists or weapons.
• Report crimes or suspicious activities to the police, school authorities, or parents.
• Take safe routes to and from school and know good places to seek help.
• Do not use alcohol or other drugs and stay away from places and people associated with them.
• Get involved in your school’s anti-violence activities--have poster contests against violence, hold anti-drug rallies, and volunteer to counsel peers. If there are no programs, help start one.

Parents

• Sharpen your parenting skills. Work with your children to emphasize and build their positive strengths.
• Teach your children how to reduce their risk of being victims of crime.
• Know where your kids are, what they are doing, and whom they are with at all times, no matter how old your child is.
• Help your children learn nonviolent ways to handle frustrations, anger, and conflict.
• Become involved in your child’s school activities, such as the PTA, field trips, and helping out in class or the lunchroom.

School Staff

• Evaluate your school's safety objectively. Set targets for improvement.
• Develop consistent disciplinary policies, good security procedures, and a response plan for emergencies.

Senior Safety Information

Although surveys consistently show that persons over 65 are victims of crime far less frequently than young people, many senior citizens are so worried about crime that they shut themselves up in their homes and rarely go out. But isolating oneself behind locked doors and not getting together with neighbors actually makes it easier for criminals to work in the neighborhood.

Seniors are more vulnerable to certain crimes - purse snatching, mugging, and fraud. But you can reduce opportunities for criminals to strike by being careful, alert, and a good neighbor.

Personal Safety Suggestions

• If you must carry a purse, hold it close to your body. Don't dangle it.
• Avoid dark, deserted routes, even if they are the shortest.
• Whenever possible, travel with a friend to run errands. There is safety in numbers!
• Have your car or house key in hand as you approach your vehicle or home.
• If you live alone, don't advertise it. Use only your first initial in phone books, directories, and apartment lobbies. Or better yet, don't list your name and number at all by requesting a non-published number.
• Never let strangers in your home - ever! They may offer a sob story, to which you can call the police if you wish, but do not open the door!
• Work out a "buddy" system with a friend to check on each other daily.
• If you receive checks in the mail regularly, arrange for them to be sent directly to the bank instead.
• Protect windows and sliding glass doors with good locks or other security devices.
• Never put your purse or wallet on a counter while you examine merchandise in a store. 

Don't Be Conned

According to the American Association of Retired Persons, older citizens are victims of fraudulent schemes far out of proportion to their population numbers. Keep informed about the latest con schemes in your community by reading the newspaper. Be skeptical about any proposal that sounds too good to be true or has to be kept secret. Don't rush into anything. Check it out with friends, lawyers, or police department.

If you are the victim of fraud, call the police immediately. You may be embarrassed because you were tricked, but your information is vital in catching the con artist and preventing others from being victimized.

Walking and Running Safely

Running and walking continue to be extremely popular sports. Each year, more and more people take up running and walking because it is a quick, inexpensive way to stay fit. If you travel often, running or walking is an excellent way to maintain your exercise regimen. Also, many community centers and neighborhood and senior groups are starting walking clubs. Here are a few pointers to stay safe as you hit the road.

Before You Leave

• Plan your outing. Always tell someone where you are going and when you will return. Inform friends and family of your favorite exercise routes.
• Know where telephones are located along the route.
• Wear an identification tag or carry a driver's license. If you don't have a place to carry your ID, write your name, phone number, and blood type on the inside of your athletic shoe. Include any medical information.
• Don't wear jewelry or carry cash.
• Wear reflective material.

On the Road

• Stay alert at all times. The more aware you are, the less vulnerable you are.
• Run or walk with a partner and/or a dog.
• Don't wear headsets. If you wear them you won't hear an approaching car or attacker. Listen to your surroundings.
• Consider carrying a cellular phone.
• Exercise in familiar areas. Know which businesses or stores are open.
• Vary your route.
• Avoid unpopulated areas, deserted streets, and overgrown trails. Especially avoid poorly lighted areas at night.
• Run clear of parked cars or bushes.
• Ignore verbal harassment. Use discretion in acknowledging strangers. Look directly at others and be observant, but keep your distance and keep moving.
• Run against traffic so you can observe approaching automobiles.
• Trust your intuition about a person or an area. React based on that intuition and avoid areas you feel unsure about.
• Be careful if anyone in a car asks you for directions - if you answer, keep at least a full arm's length from the car.
• If you think you are being followed, change direction and head for an open business, theater, or a lighted house.
• Have your door key ready before you reach your car or home.
• Call police immediately if something happens to you or someone else, or you notice anyone out of the ordinary. It is also a good idea to check with police about any criminal activity in the area you plan to run.

Stay Alert

Sometimes runners and walkers get lulled into a "zone" where they are so focused on their exercise they lose track of what's going on around them. This state can make runners and walkers more vulnerable to attack. Walk and run with confidence and purpose. If you get bored running without music, practice identifying characteristics of strangers and memorizing license plate numbers to keep you from "zoning" out.

Away From Home

Many people have taken up running and walking so that they will be able to exercise when they are traveling. Remember, just because you are away from home doesn't mean you can let your guard down when you're exercising. Before you venture out:

• Check with the hotel staff or concierge to find safe routes for exercise. If there is not an acceptable place to exercise outdoors, see if the hotel can arrange for you to go to a health club or gym.
• Become familiar with your exercise course before you start. Get a map and study it.
• Remember the street address of the hotel. Carry a card with your hotel address along with your identification.
• Leave your room key with the front desk.
• Follow your usual safety rules.
  
  
  
  
  Remember:  Always Safety First!
  It does your family, friends, or you, no good to read the above safety tips and not act upon them.   If you are in a situation that you do not like, you can just leave, whether its leaving by walking away, or screaming at the top of your lungs as you are running away.  Your personal decisions, that you make each and every day, will affect you for the remainder of your life,  DON'T TAKE CHANCES, then You will have a less of a chance to become a victim of crime.
  
  
  -Birdy