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Street Smarts
Test Your "Street Smarts" IQ: Do you…
 | Jog or walk by yourself early in the morning or late at night when the streets are quiet
and deserted? |
| Stuff your purse with cash, keys, credit cards, checkbook - and then leave it wide open
on a counter, your desk, the floor? |
| Put your wallet in a jacket, which you then hang up or throw over a chair? |
| Let your mind wander - thinking about your job, or all the things you have to do - when
walking or driving? |
| Think it's a waste of time to lock your car when you'll be back in a few minutes? |
If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you need to change a few
habits. Even if you answered "no" and made a perfect score, read on. Spend a few
minutes now to prevent trouble later.
Basic Street Sense
| Wherever you are - on the street, in an office building or shopping mall, driving,
waiting for a bus or subway - stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings. |
| Send the message that you're calm, confident, and know where you're going. |
| Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, avoid the person or
leave. |
| Know the neighborhoods where you live and work. Check out the locations of police and
fire stations, public telephones, hospitals, and restaurants, or stores that are open
late. |
On Foot
| Stick to well-traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots, or
alleys. |
| Don't flash large amounts of cash or other tempting targets like expensive jewelry or
clothing. |
| Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside
coat or front pants pocket, not a back pocket. |
| Try to use automated teller machines in the daytime. Have your card in hand and don't
approach the machine if you're uneasy about people nearby. |
| Don't wear shoes or clothing that restrict your movements. |
| Have your car or house key in hand before you reach the door. |
| If you think someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk toward
an open store, restaurant, or lighted house. If you're scared, yell for help. |
| Have to work late? Make sure there are others in the building, and ask someone - a
colleague or security guard - to walk you to your car or transit stop. |
On Wheels
| Keep your car in good running condition. Make sure there's enough gas to get where
you're going and back. |
| Always roll up the windows and lock car doors, even if you're coming right back. Check
inside and out before getting in. |
| Avoid parking in isolated areas. Be especially alert in lots and underground parking
garages. |
| If you think someone is following you, don't head home. Drive to the nearest police or
fire station, gas station, or other open business to get help. |
| Don't pick up hitchhikers. Don't hitchhike. |
On Buses, Trains and Subways
| Use well-lighted, busy stops. |
| Stay alert! Don't doze or daydream. |
| If someone harasses you, don't be embarrassed. Loudly say "Leave me alone!" If
that doesn't work, hit the emergency device. |
| Watch who get off with you. If you feel uneasy, walk directly to a place where there are
other people. |
If Someone Tries To Rob You
| Don't resist. Give up your property, don't give up your life. |
| Report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions
can help prevent others from becoming victims. |
source: National Crime Prevention Council
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