Walk with confidence in your stride. Stooped hesitant movements, or a projection of fearfulness causes one to be seen as a prime target by muggers. If you look like a victim, someone will make you a victim. If you suspect someone is following you, cross the street. If they continue to follow you, you can pretty sure you’re about to become a victim. If possible, head for a safe area; i.e., open stores, bright lights other people. If none of these are available, go to the nearest house and bang on the door. Yelling "FIRE, FIRE" are the key words to attract attention in today’s "don’t get involved" environment. Before boarding an elevator, look over the occupants. If you have any misgivings, wait for the next one. When you do board, stand next to the control panel. If someone starts to attack you, push every button on the control panel, (except the Emergency Button that rings a bell but also stops the elevator). When the door opens, try to get out while screaming "Fire" as loud as you can. People will come out of their offices or apartments to see where the fire is. Do not leave items of value, or appear to be, in open view in your car. Use discretion when storing packages in the trunk. Consider who may be observing while you are putting packages in the trunk and how long the car will remain unattended. Stay clear of "Road Rage". This means keep your temper under control too, If you become involved in a "Road Rage" incident, be careful. One out of every ten drivers on the road today is crazy. Do not, lower your car window more than one-half inch if someone approaches your car at a light. If he or she tries to attack you, drive away immediately if you can. If you can’t move your car, blow your horn, call 911 on your cell phone and have a pepper spray handy. Also, try to get the license plate number. If you find yourself being followed, drive to the nearest gas station, police or fire station and keep blowing your horn to attract attention. If you have car problems, use discretion in accepting help from strangers. You are not obligated to take any offer of aid. Wait for the police to come to your aid, keep your car doors locked, your windows up and have a "Call Police" sign handy that can be put up in the back window of your car. Everyone passing by with a cell phone will call 911. Double-lock the door to your hotel/motel room, particularly when you are in for the night. There are locking devices available that are designed for use in temporary accommodations such as hotels and motels. You may wish to investigate these if you travel frequently. Always make your home appear inhabited. Leave a light and radio on while you are away. Timer switches are available and convenient for this use. Have the mail and newspaper deliveries stopped or picked up if you plan to be away. Sliding glass doors can be removed by lifting upward against the spring-loaded rollers in the top channel until the bottom rollers are clear of the track. A screw installed upward into the top channel, so the door just clears it on each end, will prevent this from happening. Never open your door until you know the identity of the person outside. You always have the option of not allowing them to enter. Always ask for identification from repair or delivery persons or call their place of employment. |