What You Need To Know Wednesday: How to Avoid Becoming A Victim Of A Violent Crime

Violent crime (and crime in general) is definitely on the rise everywhere. It doesn’t matter where you live or how safe you feel your community is, a violent crime can happen anywhere and at any time, so I did some research on how to protect yourself from being a victim of a violent crime and listed below are some tips that I feel are necessary for all of us to know to protect ourselves:

In Your Car

• Always have your car key or car FOB in your hand ready to use before entering your car.
• Carry your cell phone with you in the car.
• When entering or exiting your car, always lock all doors.
• Before entering your car, look inside and have your keys in your hand and ready to unlock the door.
• Never pick up strangers.
• If you are stranded and a stranger offers help, do not get out of your car. Roll down the window far enough so you can ask the person to call for assistance.
• Drive with all your doors locked.
• Do not stop to help a stranded motorist. Use your cell phone and call for assistance.
• If you suspect you are being followed, drive to the nearest gas station, police station, or fire station and blow your horn. Try to get the car’s license plate number and description.
• At night, always park in well lighted areas. Be alert and careful when using parking garages.
• When your vehicle is parked, don’t leave anything of value in plain sight. Remove items by taking them in your house or putting them into the locked trunk. Purses, briefcases, money, packages, cell phones, etc. make it enticing for a person looking to break into a car.

On The Street

• Avoid walking, jogging, or biking alone at night unless absolutely necessary.
• Plan the safest route to your destination. Choose well lighted busy streets and avoid short cuts through parks, vacant lots, or unlit areas.
• Vary your route and schedule.
• Always walk near the curb and away from alleyways and doorways.
• Walk facing traffic so you can see approaching vehicles.
• Consider not wearing headphones while out walking or jogging. You cannot hear what is going on around you.
• If you suspect you are being followed by someone on foot, cross the street and head for the nearest well lighted, populated area. Walk quickly or run to a house or store to call police.
• If you need to attract attention, scream “FIRE!”
• Do not use automated teller machines (ATM’s) at night. Use them during the day. Have your card ready and scan the surrounding area before approaching the machine.
• Do not overburden yourself with packages or a bulky purse.
• Always remain alert to your surroundings and walk with purpose and confidence, making quick eye contact with everyone you pass.

We all need to be aware of our surroundings at all times while we are out and about to keep ourselves as safe as possible. How do you protect yourself while you are out? Let us know in the comments below and until next week, be happy, healthy, and beautiful!