Ways to Stay Safe

Prevention Tips

BE AWARE of what’s happening around you. Look to your sides and in back of you, not just in front of you.

TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS. If you feel something isn’t right or don’t feel safe, do something about it – get out of the area or situation; call someone to be with you.

Common Sense Indoors

• Make sure all doors and windows have deadbolt locks and use them.
• Keep entrances well lit. A peephole in the door is a good safety measure.
• Never open your door to a stranger. If someone says they need to make an emergency phone call, have the person wait outside while you make the call.
• Check identification of sales and service persons before letting them into the house. Have them wait outside while you call their office to verify their identity.
• Use an initial and last name on mail boxes. This makes it less obvious that you are a female and live alone.
• Be careful of isolated spots like apartment laundry rooms when they are empty and you are alone.
• If you find a door or window open or broken when you come home, don’t go in. The intruder could still be inside.

Common Sense Outdoors

• Avoid walking or jogging alone, especially at night. Stay in well-traveled, well lighted areas.
• Wear clothes and shoes that give you freedom of movement. You may be in a situation where you need to run.
• Be careful of anyone in a car who asks you for directions – if you answer, keep your distance so you can’t be pulled into the car.
• Have your keys ready before you reach the door – home, work or car. Fumbling in your purse with your head down puts you in a vulnerable position.
• If you think someone is following you, don’t be embarrassed to turn around and check. Then do whatever you need to do, run; scream; cross the street; get to an area with lights and people around.

Car Sense

• Always lock the car – when you get in and when you get out. Look around you and the back seat before you get in.
• Park in areas that will be well lighted and well traveled at the time you will return to your car.
• If your car breaks down, lift the hood, go back inside, lock the doors and turn on flasher lights. Use a Call Police Banner and flares if you have them. If someone stops and offers help, roll the window down slightly, ask the person to call the police, a friend, or a tow service for you and stay inside your car.