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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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