Staying Safe

Plan your route. Tell someone where you are going and when you’ll return. Check in when you reach your destination. Choose well-lit and busy streets (avoid vacant lots / alleys).

Be alert to your surroundings. If you feel uncomfortable, leave or seek help. Do not walk while using your cell phone or wearing headphones. Avoid unnecessary contact with strangers. Consider carrying a whistle or body alarm. Do not carry large sums of money. Do not use ATMs at night or with few others nearby. 

Put away your phone, headphones and other valuables; conceal expensive accessories such as bags, watches or jewelry. Don’t overburden yourself with bags or groceries.

Keep yourself out of harm’s way. If you are able, help others who may have been injured. Call for help as soon as possible. Tell the dispatcher your location, what happened, if anyone is injured, and any information you have about a suspect. Wait for the police to arrive and tell them what you witnessed.