Crime Tips and Prevention

 

General Crime Prevention Tips

1. Know and avoid situations and locations that could invite crime, i.e., dark alleys, unlit parking lots, etc.
2. Decide what you plan to do in the event you are confronted, i.e., show confidence, scream, etc.
3. Consider your options in these situations and practice your responses often so that you can recall them in a real situation.
4. Home Security Tips
5. Consider having a peephole installed in your doors. Make sure you have the proper locks on doors and windows and use them while you are at home as well as when you are not.
6. Never open the door for a stranger. Always demand verification of the stranger’s identity and the purpose of the visit.
7. Never tell a stranger calling by phone that you are alone or that you are disabled.
8. Plan an avenue of escape from each room in your residence to use in case of emergency, such as a break-in, fire or disaster.
9. Always ask for identification from all agents and call their agency for verification.
10. Don’t commit yourself to purchases or charitable donations over the phone. Ask the caller to mail the information to you so you can make an informed decision.
11. Be sure to read and understand all contacts before you sign them. If your sight is impaired, have someone you trust read the entire document to you.
12. Consider having your cheques mailed directly to your bank to avoid mail theft or robbery.
13. Going Out
14. Whenever possible, travel with someone you know. There is safety in numbers.
15. Leave word of your plans with family or friends-including your ultimate destination and estimated time of return.
16. When waiting for a bus, taxi or jitney, etc., wait in a centralized location near other passengers. When at rural bus stops, when possible have a family member or trusted friend with you. As much as possible, after dark avoid lonely bus poles.
17. Keep your handbags and packages on your lap instead of on the floor or on the seat next to you.
18. Be aware of those around you, particularly when exiting a bus or personal transportation
19. If You Become a Victim of a Crime
20. Get help immediately by calling:
    1. A Police Station or 211
    2. A Doctor
    3. A Friend
    4. A Relative
21. Try to remember as many details about the assailant as possible, such as clothing, hair color, identifiable marks, etc.
22. On the street: Avoid flashy clothes and jewelry because these can attract unwanted attention.
23. On the street: Dress so you can walk or run easily in case of an attack.
24. On the street: Walk with someone if possible. If you must walk alone, walk confidently. Stay alert to those around you or go into a public place if you need to ask for direction; don’t ask someone you do not know.
25. On the street: Avoid isolated areas.
26. On the street: Avoid short cuts.
27. On the street: Protect your valuables by carrying only what you need. Carry necessary valuables close to your body; don’t set them down.
28. On the street: Carry a wallet in a front or inside pocket, instead of a purse. If you carry a purse, hold it close to your body.
29. On the street: If you are being followed act suspicious, turn to look at the person, this will let them know you would not be taken by surprise.
30. On the street: If you are being followed on foot, cross the street and vary your pace.
31. On the street: If you are being followed by someone in a vehicle turn and walk in the opposite direction.