Crime Prevention

Home

• Keep all windows and doors locked.
• Store outdoor equipment in a locked shed or garage.
• Do not leave notes on your door when you are away.
• Do not leave keys in mailboxes or under door mats.
• Never let a stranger in your home use the telephone.
• Never say are away from home on your answering machine.
• Do not go into your home if you suspect it has broken into.
• Do not discuss your finances with strangers.

Business

• Have two employees open and lock up at night.
• When making bank deposits, always vary times.
• Never allow any one person to take out the trash. This should be done in pairs.
• Install panic buttons at the front counter.
• Keep the parking area well lit.
• Struggle with resisting child.

While You Are Out

• Do not take shortcuts, walk-in or near alleys, or along deserted streets.
• Use caution in parking lots, and do not walk in poorly lit areas or doorways.
• Do not accept rides from strangers.
• Do not respond to comments from strangers on the street.
• Do not hitchhike.
• If you suspect you are being followed, go to an open business immediately.
• When meeting a new friend, exchange phone numbers only, not addresses.
• Do not go to a nightclub alone.

ATM Use

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially between dusk and dawn. If you notice anything suspicious, consider coming back later, or going to another ATM.
• If you are using the ATM at night, have someone else with you.
• Park in well-lit areas.
• If you withdraw cash, put it away immediately. Count it later.
• Do not share your PIN number with anyone.
• Make sure no one is watching you enter the PIN into the machine.
• Do not visit your ATM at regular times or on the same day of the week.

In Your Automobile

• Never pick up hitchhikers.
• Do not park in a dark area and have keys in hand when walking to your car.
• Never leave your keys in the car.
• Never allow a vehicle to follow you home, drive to the police station, or open business.
• Always check the back seat of your car before getting in.
• If you stop to aid others, do not get out of the car, determine the problem and call the police.

If You Are Attacked

• Use common sense. Try to talk your way out of it.
• Stall for time. Be verbal.
• Run toward an open business or group of people. Hide if you have the opportunity.
• Scream loudly and keep it up to attract attention and help from people nearby.
• Notify the police immediately.

When Carrying a Purse

• Do not carry unnecessary valuables in your purse.
• Do not let your purse hang loosely in your hand.
• Do not carry a lethal weapon. It could be used against you.
• Do not fight for a purse. Surrender it.