Chief of Police
James Wardwell
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Personal Safety
· Lights o Leave at least one on-inside and out-when you’re not home. o When you’re away on a trip, use a timer to turn lights on and off. · Unwanted contact o Don’t give out personal information, such as your name or address, over the phone or online. o If you have an answering machine, use it to screen unwanted calls. o Notify authorities of threatening or harassing calls or messages. · Locks o Buy high quality deadbolts for outside doors and use them! o Keep all windows and sliding doors locked when not in use. o Be sure all doors can be opened quickly in case of fire. · Strangers o Install a peephole, if possible. o Don’t open the door for strangers or unexpected repair people or deliveries. o Always ask for a company ID. Call to verify it if you’re suspicious. · Neighborhood friends o Form a neighborhood watch group. Report anything suspicious to authorities. o Keep in touch with your neighbors. o Leave an extra set of keys with a trusted neighbor – not under the doormat or planter. · Elevators o Get on with a group, if possible. o Stand away from the door while waiting alone. o Don’t ride an elevator alone with a stranger. o If you’re uncomfortable with a stranger, get off immediately. o Stand near the control panel. Hit the alarm button and floor buttons, if necessary. Protect yourself on the street. · Dress appropriately o Avoid flashy clothes and jewelry. They might attract unwanted attention. o Dress so you can walk or run easily to avoid attack. · Walk with someone o Stay alert to those around you. o If you must walk alone, walk confidently. o Go into a public place if you need to ask directions. · Walk near people o Avoid isolated areas, parks and parking lots. o Avoid shortcuts – they may expose you to danger. · Protect your valuables o Carry only what you need. o Carry necessary valuables close to your body. Don’t set them down. o Carry a wallet in a front or inside pocket. o If you carry a purse, hold it close to your body. · If you’re being followed: o Act suspicious. Turn to look at the person. It shows you won’t be taken by surprise. o Change directions. If someone is following you on foot, cross the street and vary your pace. If the person is in a car, turn and walk in the opposite directions. o Go into a store or other public place. If the person follows you, ask to use the phone to call for help. Protect yourself while traveling. Know where you are going before you leave home In car: · Doors and windows o Keep doors locked and windows rolled up in traffic, especially stoplights. o Always lock your car. · Parking o Park in areas that will be well lit when you return. o Before getting in car, check the back seat and around the car to see if anyone is hiding. · Valuables o Keep them out of sight in the trunk, never on a seat or in the glove compartment. o Mount stereos, cell phones and other electronics out of sight, if possible. On public transportation: · Subways and trains. o Wait in well-lit areas, near other people. o Stay alert. Don’t wear headphones. Don’t nap. o Of someone bothers you, make noise so other passengers know you need help. · Buses o Wait near others. o Sit in an aisle seat, near driver, if possible. · Taxis o Sit in the back seat. o Call ahead for rides. Use only registered taxis. · Airports o Report any unattended bag or vehicle to airport personnel. o Keep your belongings with you at all times. o Do not accept any package from strangers. o Do not leave your vehicle unattended in front of the terminal. · Hotels and motels o Leave valuables in a safe at the desk, not in your room or luggage. o Always keep your room key with you. o Double-lock the door when you are inside. o Tell the clerk not to give out your room number. o Never give out your room number to strangers or people you’ve just met. · Most of the victims are raped by someone they know. This often happens on dates. Here are some tips to help you reduce the risks of rape: o Know the person you’re going out with well. o Meet in public places, not isolated areas. o Arrange your own transportation. o Tell someone where you’re going and who you’re meeting. If possible, go out with a group of people first until you get to know your date better. o Make your limits clear before you get into a sexual situation. o Avoid alcohol and other drugs – they make it harder to stay in control. o Don’t leave your drink alone. Also don’t drink something you didn’t get or open yourself. “Date rape drugs” slipped in a drink van leave you vulnerable. · If you’re raped o Get to a safe place. Seek emotional support from a friend or relative, or a rape crisis center. o Go to a hospital immediately. Don’t wash, comb or clean any part of your body until you have been examined. Alco, don’t brush your teeth or change your clothes. o Tell the police. If you have concerns about this, get information and support first – from a rape crisis center, for example. (Hospitals may be required to report some rape cases to authorities). o See a counselor. He or she can help you deal with any painful feelings about the attack. >>> REMEMEBER, RAPE IS NEVER YOUR FAULT <<<
· For Parents: Teach your children these and other safety rules: o Don’t play alone in isolated areas. o Don’t talk to people you don’t know well. o Don’t go with anyone you don’t know well. o Learn to say “NO!” – Especially to uncomfortable touches. o Don’t open the door to anyone you don’t know well. o Don’t tell people you’re home alone. o Know your name, address and phone number. o Learn how to call for help in an emergency. § In many communities 9-1-1 is the emergency number. · For older people: o Have regular pensions or other checks deposited directly into your bank account. o Don’t close off or lock fire escapes. Ask the local law-enforcement or fire department about types of locks to use. o Beware of people who want to share money with you, other products or services at very low prices, or ask you to withdraw money from your bank. Even if they seem friendly, it could be a scam.
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