While you're out and about

The following are some general tips to help you stay safe when you're out and about.

Try not to go out alone at night. Avoid unfamiliar areas, if possible.
Don't take shortcuts: don't walk in or near alleys, and don't walk on deserted streets.
Use caution in parking lots, and don't walk in poorly lighted areas, or dark doorways, or near shrubbery.
Don't accept rides from strangers, and don't respond to comments from strangers on the street.
Watch your surroundings and be alert for suspicious persons, especially around banks, stores, street, and your car or home.
When meeting a new friend, exchange phone numbers only, not addresses. On a first date, let family and friends know where you are going. Consider a daytime meeting rather than a night meeting, for a first date, and meet in a public place.

In your automobile

Never pick up hitchhikers.
Don't park in the dark.
Never allow another vehicle to follow you home.
Have your keys in hand so you can open the car door without delay.
Always keep your car in gear when stopped at a traffic signal or stop sign, so if threatened in any way, you can quickly drive away.
Always check the back seat of your car before getting in.
If you stop to aid others, do not get out of the car. Ask what the problem is, and go to the nearest phone and call the police.
Always lock your doors while driving.

During off hours, ride as near the operator as possible.
If you are going to be out late, make sure you have cab fare.
If someone on the bus bothers you, change seats and tell the operator.
Have your fare or pass ready in hand when boarding the bus.
At night, avoid dark and isolated intersections or stops.
Look around when getting off the bus or trolley, and be aware of people around you.

Use all available locks on the doors and windows in a hotel/motel.
Unpack and place your belongings in the closet and dresser and arrange things so you can easily tell if something is missing.
Keep a list of all things you brought from home.
Lock your suitcases so they cannot be used to carry things out and consider hiding electric travel appliances and other valuable items in your suitcase.
Don't leave cash, checks, credit cards, jewelry, vehicle keys, etc. in the room. Take them with you or lock them in the hotel or motel safe.
Report any lost or stolen items to the hotel or motel management as well as to the police.

Use common sense.
Distract or divert the assailant, then flee. Run toward an open business or a group of people.
Scream loudly, and keep it up to attract attention and help from people near by.
Notify the police immediately. If there are witnesses, ask them to stay until police arrive. Tell the police what you know. No fact is too trivial.