PERSONAL SAFETY TIPS

Being safe requires making wise personal choices that help prevent you from becoming a victim of crime.  Follow these tips to be safe while out of the house: 

Be aware of your surroundings - Criminals don't like witnesses and will generally avoid people who look alert.  Trust your instincts, because they may save you from danger.  

Avoid dangerous situations such as jogging or walking alone at night.  Whenever possible, walk or jog with friends, rather than alone.  

Avoid exercising outside alone at night. If you must go out, stay away from trees or shrubbery that block your view.  Wear reflective gear.  Tell someone how far you are going, your route, and when you expect to return.

Stick to well-lighted, well-traveled streets.

Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots or alleys.

Know where to go if you need help.

If you think someone is following you, switch directions or cross the street - If they are still there, move quickly toward an open store, restaurant or a lighted house.  

Carry a cell phone and don't be afraid to call or yell for help.

Be alert in the neighborhood.

Call police about anything you see that seems suspicious.  Report AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

Have your car or house key in your hand before you reach the door. Also, it may be a good idea to have an extra set of car key close to your bed. If you hear a noise outside of your home or someone trying to enter your house, you can press the panic button on your car alarm. 

HOME SAFETY TIPS

Always lock your doors and windows when you are not at home, during the day and at night.

Change your code on your garage door/remote control devise.

Don't leave notes on the door when going out.

When leaving for an extended period of time {days or weeks}, you should:

     1. Notify the police and a neighbor and leave emergency contact information, who is allowed to be at the house and what vehicles will be there.

     2. Cancel deliveries such as newspapers, UPS, FEDEX, and mail.

     3. Have someone mow the lawn, take out the garbage and remove the garbage cans and shovel the walkway if needed.

     4. Use a timer to turn on and off the lights and leave curtains open.

     5. Notify police and neighbors upon your return.

Never hide your keys under the door mat or mailbox or in conspicuous places

If you find your door or a window open and suspect someone inside, "DON'T GO IN THE HOUSE". Leave immediately and call 911. Wait in a safe place and listen to the 911 dispatcher.

GENERAL SAFETY TIPS

Never let stranger{s} into your house.

If someone is soliciting, ask to see their permit and their credentials along with a photo I.D.     

If the person{s} are representing workers from utility companies, or delivery services, don't rely solely on a uniform or his claims, again ask for photo I.D. and credentials.

Park your vehicle in a well lighted area.

Always lock your vehicle doors and remove valuable items{cameras, money, laptop computers, GPS units, CD's and purses}

Be alert of suspicious activity, vehicles and persons in the area.

To report an incident or emergency CALL "911". Do not call the station direct. The officer may not be at the station. The most effective way to get help quickly is to use the "911" system.

Report an incident to "911" ASAP, do not wait to call. Make every effort to be a first party caller. Important information can be lost if reported by a third party.