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- Basic Street Sense:
- · Wherever you are - on the street, in an office building or shopping mall, driving, waiting for a bus or subway - stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings.
- · Send the message that you're calm, confident, and know where you're going.
- · Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, avoid the person or leave.
- · Know the neighborhoods where you live and work. Check out the locations of police and fire stations, public telephones, hospitals, restaurants or stores that are open late.
- On Foot - Day & Night:
- · Stick to well-lighted, well-traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots or alleys.
- · Don't flash large amounts of cash or other tempting targets like jewelry or expensive clothing.
- · Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.
- · Try to use automated teller machines in the daylight. Have your card in hand.
- · Don't wear shoes or clothing that restrict your movements.
- · Have you car or house key in hand before you reach the door.
- · If you think someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk toward an open store, restaurant or lighted house. If you're scared, YELL for help.
- · Have to work late? Make sure there are others in the building, and ask someone - a colleague or security guard - to walk you to your car or transit stop.
- On Wheels:
- · Keep your car in good running condition. Make sure there's enough gas to get where you're going and back.
- · Always roll up the windows and lock your car, even if you're coming right back. Check inside and out before getting in.
- · Avoid parking in isolated areas with little foot or auto traffic. Be especially alert in lots and underground parking garages.
- · If you think someone is following you, don't head home. Drive to the nearest police or fire station, gas station or other business to get help.
- · Don't pick up hitchhikers. Don't hitchhike yourself.
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- On Buses and Subways:
- · Use well-lighted, busy stops.
- · Stay alert! Don't doze or daydream.
- · If someone harasses you, don't be embarrassed. Loudly say "Leave me alone!" If that doesn't work, hit the emergency device.
- · Watch who gets off with you. If you feel uneasy, walk directly to a place where there are other people.
- If Someone Tries to Rob You:
- · Don't resist. Give up your property, don't give up your life!
- · Report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions can help prevent others from being victims.
- Take a Stand!
- · Make your neighborhood and workplace safer by reporting broken street lights, cleaning up parks and vacant lots, and lobbying local government for better lighting in public places.
- · Join a Neighborhood, Apartment or Office Watch to look out for each other and help the police.
- · Help out a friend or co-worker who's been a victim of a crime. Cook a meal, babysit, find the number for victim services or a crisis hotline. Listen, sympathize, and don't blame.
- · Look at the root causes. Work for better drug treatment services, crime and drug abuse prevention education, and job and recreational opportunities for young people in your community.
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