- Plan the safest route to your destination and use it.
- Stay in well lit, well-travelled streets. Walk halfway between curbs and building away from alleys, entries and bushes. Avoid shortcuts through wooden areas, parking lots or alleys.
- If possible, travel in pairs. It reduces your chance of being a victim of a street crime.
- Don’t large amounts of cash or other tempting targets like expensive jewelry or clothing.
- Try to use an ATM (Automated teller machines) in the daytime. Have your card in hand and don’t approach the machine if you’re uneasy about people nearby.
- If one follows you, be suspicious, keep looking behind you and you may discourage the follower. If someone is following you on foot cross the street, change directions or vary your pace. If someone follows you in a car, turn around and walk in the opposite direction.
- Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put your wallet in your inside coat or front trouser pocket, not a back pocket and if you have to button it up.
- Don’t wear shoes or clothing that resist your movements.
- Have your car or house key in hand before you reach the door.
- Avoid using cell phones or Mp3 players while walking. Suspects target phones and other items in plain view.
