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Personal Security Tips
Securing your business, your home, and your modes of transportation are naturally quite important, but sometimes feeling safe and secure personally, especially when you are alone, can be difficult. Here are a few things to remember for personal safety.
- Wherever you are, always stay alert and tuned into your surroundings. Don't daydream.
- Communicate the message that you're calm, confident, and know where you're going. Stand tall, walk purposefully, and make quick eye contact with people around you.
- Stick to well-lit busy streets.
- Stay on the part of the sidewalk that is farthest away from shrubs, dark doorways, and alleys where people can hide.
- If you walk at night, consistently vary your routes.
- Walk with a companion whenever possible.
- If you work late, arrange to leave with a co-worker or be accompanied by a security guard.
- Make sure your car is parked as close to the entrance as possible or move it to a safe spot in the late afternoon when people are leaving.
- Keep your car locked and check the back seat and floor before getting in.
- Don't overload yourself with packages or wear shoes or clothing that may restrict your movements.
- Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or other tempting targets such as jewelry or expensive clothing.
- Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps, and keep a firm grip on it.
- Carry a wallet in an inside coat or front trouser pocket.
- Know the neighborhoods where you live and work.
- Find out what stores and restaurants are open late and the locations of police and fire stations.
- If you are in an unfamiliar neighborhood, take a few minutes to look around for stores, telephones, and street lights.
- Have your car or house key in hand as you approach your vehicle or home.
- If you think someone is following you, abruptly switch directions and walk toward an open store, restaurant, or lit home.
- If you are really scared, scream for help.
- When riding the bus or subway: Use well lit busy stops.
- Don't fall asleep. Stay alert!
- If you are verbally harassed, say loudly and firmly "Leave me alone."
- Attract help by talking loudly or screaming.
- If you are threatened: Don't resist if the attacker is only after your property or has a weapon.
- If you do decide to resist, don't get scared, get mad! Shout "NO!," "Stop!," or "Call the police!," loudly and forcefully.
- Try to incapacitate or distract your assailant long enough to escape.
- A jab to the throat or eyes or a swift kick to the knees may give you a few minutes to get away or attract help.
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