Self-protection is knowing how to avoid being the victim of an attack. By taking a common sense approach to your daily activities and practicing the crime prevention tips that follow, you can minimize your chances of becoming a victim. Remember: You are your first line for protection! You can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property (But never rate property higher than a human life).

At Home | While Driving | When Walking, Jogging or Out and About

While Driving

• Don’t pick up hitchhikers (anytime, day or night).
• Use the vehicle’s rear view mirrors; know who is behind you.
• If you think that someone is following you, don’t go straight home. Go to a place where there are other people, use a cell phone to call police, draw attention to yourself.
• If you are in trouble or there is an emergency, don’t call your Mother….call 911.
• Park your car in well-lit areas and be sure to lock it.
• Avoid isolated places when parking a vehicle.
• If you leave work after dark, use the buddy system & walk out with someone. If there are security personnel, ask for an escort.
• If you are leaving work to make a bank deposit, try not to do it alone. If the bank deposit area is dark and/or has a lot of landscaping that provides concealment, make a complaint to get it fixed. DON’T TAKE CHANCES.
• If another motorist needs help, tell them you will call for aid, but don’t exit your car, and don’t offer them a ride. Sometimes females are use to gain your sympathy.
• If your car breaks down, raise the hood, tie a piece of cloth to the antenna, or put your flashers on. Stay in your car with the doors locked. Cell phones are cheap security.
• Make sure that your vehicle is mechanically sound to avoid breakdowns.
• Don’t drive for any distances when your gas gauge shows “empty.”
• Have your vehicle door key ready when you are walking to your vehicle. This way you aren’t distracted & fumbling for keys in the parking lot.
• Visually scan your vehicle as you approach it to see if there is anyone nearby. Be sure that the dome light works when you open your door. Scan the back seat area (or camper shell).
• When leaving your vehicle for service (or to be driven by anyone else such as a valet), leave only the vehicle key(s) on the ring. Take your house key & garage door opener with you.
• When driving, keep the doors locked (even for short trips).
• When possible, travel on well-lit roads. Plan ahead to avoid getting lost.
• Be prepared to use alternate routes in case of unexpected detours. Be flexible.
• If you feel that someone has hit your vehicle intentionally in a remote area, don’t get out of your vehicle, but rather motion for the other driver to follow you to a populated area.
• If someone is driving erratically, just let them pass & don’t exchange gestures. This just aggravates the situation & you become a participant. If the aggressor follows you and/or continues to be out of control, go to the nearest populated area & call police. Use a cell phone if you have one. It is very important to provide a good description, especially the license number of the vehicle they are driving.