These tips are not intended to scare you, but to make you aware of some simple things you can do to prevent being the victim of a crime.

• Pay attention to what is going on around you and be aware of people near you.
• Don’t hitchhike (means getting a ride with strangers.)
• Be very careful using outside ATMs at night or in unfamiliar surroundings.
• When walking, face the oncoming traffic. It will be harder for someone to pull you into a car and abduct you. You can also see cars coming in your lane.
• Tell someone where you’ll be and what time you’re supposed to return, or if you will be with someone you don’t know well.
• Don’t overload yourself with packages. If you must have your hands full, visualize how you would respond if approached, how you would get your hands free, etc.
• Don’t wear music headphones while walking or jogging.
• Don’t read while walking or standing on the street.
• If you wear a purse with a shoulder strap, be prepared to let it go if snatched. Otherwise you may be hurt if the mugger knocks you down and drags you while fleeing with your purse.