No matter where you work, live, or play, reducing the risk of violence or becoming a victim of crime is a matter of increasing your awareness and planning your actions.
What to do to increase your safety:
– Have good locks installed in doors and windows.
– Buy a personal alarm that will keep ringing when dropped.
– Change your walking or jogging route regularly and keep to main paths. Exercise with a friend.
– Take a self-defence or safety awareness course.
– Call someone before you leave so they know when to expect you.
What to do before leaving your house:
– Have good locks on all windows and doors and use them.
– Make sure your home looks lived in, not empty.
– Leave curtains and blinds in normal positions.
– Use timers to turn on and off lights and radios at proper times.
– Have a trusted neighbour keep an eye on your home and put out the garbage for you if necessary.
– Have your lawn mowed and mail and papers collected.
– Install and test smoke, carbon monoxide, and burglar alarms.
– Call forward your phone.
What to do when travelling:
– Never carry large amounts of cash.
– Carry your purse under your arm or wallet in and inside pocket.
– Do not identify your keys with your name or address.
– Never advertise your travel plans to strangers.
– Be aware of your surroundings and remain in well lit areas.
– Use the centre of side walks away from hiding places.
– If you feel uncomfortable, cross the street or leave the area.
– Do not stop and help stranded people. Assist them by phoning for help.
– Do not carry air tickets or passports in open view. Label your luggage and keep it locked.
What to do if you think someone is breaking into your house:
– If you are just coming home and see signs of a break-in, go to a neighbour’s home and phone 911.
– If you are home at the time, turn on the lights, and call out loudly.
– Phone 911 as soon as possible.
What to do if you think someone is following you:
– Let the person know you are aware of them by looking directly at them.
– Walk directly to a place where people are and ask for help.
– Phone 911.
What to do if you are attacked:
– Do not freeze and do not panic.
– Try to get someone’s help by yelling “Fire”, “Stop”, or “No”.
– Use whatever force you feel is necessary to escape.
– Use a personal alarm device.