Take Care When Outside

  1. Avoid shortcuts that are not well traveled or well lit.
  2. Know what stores are open in your neighborhood late at night. If you suspect that you are being followed stay away from lonely blocks and head for the store you know to be open – if it’s a bar, do not hesitate to go in.
  3. If someone drops you off at home by auto, ask the driver to wait until you are safely inside.
  4. If a motorist bothers you while you are walking, turn around and walk in the opposite direction of the car. Do this as often as necessary and he should get discouraged.
  5. Never cross against the light.
  6. Cross at the corner, never between parked vehicles or in the middle of the block. Stay within crosswalk.
  7. Never assume the driver will see you or be able to stop in time. Your safety is your responsibility.
  8. Travel and shop with companions whenever possible during the daytime as well as nighttime. There is greater safety in numbers.
  9. If possible avoid carrying a pocketbook. When carrying a pocketbook, keep keys and cash in garment pockets or hidden elsewhere on your person.
  10. When walking, and especially when shopping, hold on to your belongings, at all times and keep your hand on the clasp to foil pickpockets.
  11. In the theatre or when dining, keep your pocketbook on your lap. Do not place it on the floor, or on another seat, or on the back of a chair.
  12. Take only necessary items when going out. Leave charge cards at home unless you intend to use them. Carry only the cash needed, not more. Keep all personal papers in a safe place at home or in a safe deposit box at your bank.
  13. If your purse or wallet is snatched, let it go. DON’T FIGHT FOR IT.