Tips On Personal Security

Personal Security

From OREN R. FOX

Sheriff-Coroner Marshal Imperial County

(619) 339-6311

WANT TO MAKE LIFE HARDER FOR CRIMINALS?

This Text is full of tips that can help you avoid becoming a victim of crime when you are out and about or working at your job. This text has been prepared for your protection so you will not take unnecessary risks.  By taking a few simple precautions, you can reduce the risk to yourself, and also discourage those who commit crimes.

BE PREPARED

Always be alert and aware of the people around you. Educate yourself concerning

prevention tactics. Be aware of locations and situations which would make you vulnerable

to crime, such as alley ways and dark parking lots.

STREET PRECAUTIONS

Be alert to your surroundings and the people around you-especially If you are alone or it is dark.

Whenever possible, travel with a friend. Stay in well-lighted areas as much as possible.

Walk close to the curb. Avoid doorways, bushes and alleys where someone could hide.

Walk confidently and at a steady  pace. Make eye contact with people when walking.

Do not respond to conversation from strangers on the street-continue walking.

If you carry a purse, carry it securely between your arm and your body.

Although a purse snatcher's intent is to steal the purse, your personal

safety may depend on not clinging to it.

CAR SAFETY

Always lock car doors after entering  or leaving your car. Park in well-lighted areas.

Have your car keys in your hand so you don't have to linger before entering your car.

Check the back seat before entering your car. If your car breaks down, open the

hood and attach a white cloth to the car antenna. If someone stops To help, stay in

your locked car and ask them to call the police or sheriff or a tow trucking service.

Don't stop to aid motorists stopped on the side of the road. Go to a phone and request

help for them.

WHILE WAITING FOR A BUS

Try to avoid isolated bus stops. Stand away from the curb until the bus arrives Don't

open your purse or wallet while boarding the bus-have your pass or money already

in your hand. Don't invite trouble-keep gold chains out of sight; don't flash your Jewelry;

and turn your rings around so the stones don't show.

ON BOARD BUSES

During off hours, ride as near to the Bus operator as possible.

Stay alert-and be aware of the People around you. If someone bothers you, change

Seats and/or tell the driver. Carry your wallet inside your coat, Or in a front pocket.

A comb, Placed horizontally in the fold of Your wallet, will alert you if Someone tries

to remove it from Your pocket. Keep your handbag in front of you And hold it close

to your body with Both hands. Check you purse or wallet if  Someone is jostling,

crowding of Pushing you. If you see any suspicious activity, Tell the driver.

OFFICE SECURITY

Never leave your purse or billfold in Plain view or in the pocket of a Jacket hanging on a door. 

Personal  Property should be marked with Your drivers license number. Do not leave cash or valuables at the office. If you work late alone keep the office door locked. If you work late try to find a coworker or security personal to walk you to your car. If you are alone in an elevator with a stranger stand near the control panel and be prepared to hit the alarm and as many buttons as possible if attacked. Be alert for pick pockets on crowded elevators. Report all suspicious activities to building security or law enforcement.

Be aware of escape routes in the event of an emergency. Post police numbers near telephones.

And Finally

If a crime does occur-Report It!

It is your responsibility to report crimes. By reporting a crime you allow police to assign officers to locals where crimes are occurring. Most criminal behavior follows predictable patterns and methods. At least 1 out of 2 crimes goes unreported. Either because people don't believe the police can do anything, or because people don't wish to become involved. If you don't report a crime the criminal is free to continue his activity. Police need the eyes and ears of ALL CITIZENS.