Street Smarts

Unfortunately, crime can happen to anyone, anywhere. But you can help reduce your risk of becoming a victim when you're outside your home with these common sense guidelines:

• Be alert to your surroundings - especially after dark.
• If you're walking alone after dark, stay in well-lit areas as much as possible.
• Walk with confidence, in a direct and steady pace. Potential assailants look for people who appear vulnerable.
• Walk on the side of the street facing oncoming traffic.
• Walk close to the curb avoiding doorways, bushes and alleys where someone could be hiding.
• If you suspect you're being followed, walk quickly to a lighted area where there are other people. If a car appears to be following you, turn and walk in the opposite direction across the street.
• Prepare yourself with a defensive plan, before an attack occurs.

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