Remember Your Street Smarts!

Wherever you are on the street, in an office building or shopping malls, driving, waiting for a bus or cab, stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings.

Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uncomfortable, 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-Day or Night

Stick to well-lighted, well-traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots, or alleys.

Don't flash money or other tempting targets like 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. Carry only what is necessary and try not to keep currency and credit cards all in one place.

Don't wear shoes or clothing that restrict your movements.

Have your car or house key in hand before you reach the door.

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. Better yet, only use the ATM machines inside of grocery store, malls, or gas stations.

If you think someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk toward an open store, restaurant, or lighted house. If someone harasses you, don't be embarrassed. Loudly say "Leave me alone! Someone call the police! Get away!"

Vehicle Safety

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.

If someone tries to rob you dont resist. Give up your property. Don't risk your life.

Report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions can help prevent others from being victims.

Take a Stand!

Make your neighborhood and working place safer by reporting broken street lights, cleaning up parks and vacant lots, and lobbying local government for better lighting in public places.

Initiate a block watch program in your neighborhood by contacting your local crime prevention unit.

These are some tips just to get you thinking about your surroundings when you are out of the comforts of you home. Remember to try to always be aware of your surroundings. Sometimes I drive my wife crazy because I am always looking around at the people who are near. I sit always sit in a restaurant with my back towards a wall, and sometimes I walk just a step or two behind her. Thats just how I have been trained. If you have a comment or want to send me an email you can do it through my websites:

http://www.self-defense101.com

http://www.watchurback.com

Jonathan Berkofsky is a 32 year old Police Officer in Florida. He is married to Courtney and they have two beautiful daughters. Jonathan has been a Police Officer for nearly 8 years, and he started his Law Enforcement career in Palm Beach County. Jonathan has an expertise in Traffic Enforcement and was a Traffic Homicide Investigator. Jonathan also did a short time on the Special Response Team (S.W.A.T.). Jonathan and his wife have started their own on-line business called JC Safety and Security which consists of two websites: http://www.self-defense101.com and http://www.watcurback.com Irma Blog85759
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