Robbers want one thing: your money or property.
There are some steps you can take to help prevent becoming a victim:
- Be aware of your surroundings; when walking, choose bright, well-traveled streets, and never walk alone; when parking, always choose well-lit areas, and store your valuables out of sight; when shopping, never leave your purse or packages unattended;
- engrave valuables; keep accurate records such as dated receipts, warranty cards, photographs, etc.;
- be alert, look around, avoid wearing headphones or talking on your cell phone;
- don’t wear expensive jewelry where it is visible, particularly gold chains or necklaces and keep jewelry concealed under your clothing; late at night,
- have someone meet you at the bus or train station, have the taxi driver watch while you enter your home; on public transportation, try to use the busiest, best lit stop possible;
- have your house and car keys ready to use;
- follow your instincts, go to the nearest business and call 911;
- get to know your neighbors and develop strategies for keeping an eye out on your block, knowing who lives on the block can help you all recognize when someone who is hanging out doesn’t belong there;
- please report any suspicious activity by calling 911.
Working together, you and your neighbors can make your block stronger and prevent and reduce crime.