The following tips help you reduce the risk of being a crime victim. The common-sense actions also empower you by building confidence in your ability to protect yourself and be independent.

Good Neighbors--The Front line Defense

• Work out a buddy system with a neighbor. Check on each other every day.
• Let neighbors that you trust know when you go on a vacation so they can watch your house when you are gone.
• Join a neighborhood watch group or ask the police to help you organize one. Call 264-2673 for further information.
• Make sure you report all crimes that happen in your area.

Out and About

• Stay alert and tuned into your surroundings. Don't daydream.
• Go out with a friend whenever possible.
• Try to walk in a confident manner. Make brief eye contact with approaching strangers.
• Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in a place or situation, leave.
• Try carrying a small change purse with only the money or credit cards that you need, instead of a large handbag with straps. Keep your wallet in an inside jacket or front pants pocket.
• Don't burden yourself with packages, and don't wear shoes or clothing that restrict your movements.
• Walk on well-lighted bust streets. Stay away from vacant lots, alley, or construction sites.
• Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or other tempting targets such as expensive jewelry etc.
• If someone grabs your purse or packages, try to keep your balance, get away, and shout for help.

At Home

• Lock up! Get good locks and use them.
• Light up! Make sure all porches, entrances and yards are well-lighted.
• Use a wide angle peep hole on your door.
• Ask all service and sales people for identification before you let them in your home. Don't hesitate to call employers for verification.
• Be sensible about keys. Don't put an address tag on your key ring and don't hide an extra key under a door mat or flower pot.
• Hang up immediately on harassing or obscene phone calls. If the caller persists, call police and the phone company.
• Don't keep large amounts of cash at home.
• Use direct deposit for social security or pension checks.
• Keep emergency numbers for police, fire, and paramedics near the phone.
• Mark your valuables with a personal identification number, such as your drivers license number.

IF YOU SUSPECT A BURGLAR HAS BROKEN INTO YOUR HOME, DON'T GO IN. GO TO A NEIGHBORS AND CALL THE POLICE.

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