Personal Safety

We have assembled a list of safety suggestions to help reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime. As always, we encourage you to use common sense and trust your instincts when it comes to personal safety.

When Walking

Let someone know where you are going and when you will be back.
Avoid dark, vacant, or deserted areas.
Use well-lit routes that are familiar to you.
Plan out your route in advance and walk with a partner if
possible.
Wear clothing that is not restrictive.
Be alert and walk at a steady pace so that you look like
you know where you are going.
Do not wear headphones.
Carry a noise-making device, such as a whistle, and use
it if you feel you are in danger.
If you think someone is following you, look behind you
and change your walking pattern.
Never accept a ride from a stranger.
Have your key ready to your house door or car door so that it can be opened
immediately.
If you feel you are in danger, run to a well-lit place and yell to draw attention.

When Driving

Lock your car when you park it and also while driving.
Drive on well traveled streets and keep your vehicle in gear while it is stopped.
Before getting in, check inside and underneath your car to make sure no one is
hiding.
Try to park in lighted areas and near the entrance of the building.
Keep windows up and doors locked at all times.
If you suspect you are being followed, drive to a well-lit place and call the
police.
If your car breaks down, open the hood and stay in the vehicle. If someone
offers to help, ask them to call for help. Do not accept a ride from them - stay
in your vehicle.
Never pick up hitchhikers.

When at Home

Lock all doors and windows at all times.
Use a peephole to identify visitors. Never open your
door unless they identify themselves.
Vary your routine a little each day.
List only your first initial and last name on the
mailbox and in telephone directories.
Beware of places where attackers might hide, such
as under stairs, in doorways, in alleyways, etc.
If you find a broken door or window - Do Not Enter, instead,
leave at once and then call the police.
Do not give information about yourself over the phone to a stranger. Never
reveal that you are home alone.

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