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Streetwise Safety Habits
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Awareness steps children, teens, and adults can take to spot trouble before it starts.
The best way to fight crime is to avoid situations where it is likely to take place. Any family member can do a great deal to reduce the risk of becoming a victim, by becoming aware of possible dangers and avoiding them whenever possible. All it takes is alertness to situations like the ones below.
For adults:
- Wherever you are, stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings. Don't daydream.
- Communicate the message that you're calm, confident and know where you are going. Stand tall, walk purposefully and make quick eye contact with people around you.
- Stick to well-lighted, busy streets. Stay on the part of the sidewalk that is farthest away from shrubs, dark doorways and alleys where people can hide.
- If you walk regularly at night, consistently vary your routine.
- Walk with a companion whenever possible.
- If you work late, arrange to be accompanied to your car by a co-worker or security guard. Make sure your car is parked as close to the entrance as possible. If necessary, move it to a safe spot in the late afternoon when other workers are leaving.
- Keep your car locked and check the back seat and floor before getting in.
- Don't overload yourself with packages and don't wear shoes or clothing that restricts your movements.
- Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or other tempting targets such as jewelry or expensive clothing.
- Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Keep a firm grip on a purse or bag. Carry wallets in an inside coat or front trouser pocket.
- If you think someone is following you, abruptly switch directions and walk toward an open store, restaurant or lighted home. If you are really scared, scream for help.
For young children:
- Never say you are home alone to someone on the phone. If you answer the phone, say the person asked for is busy and take a message.
- Never answer the door if you are alone.
- Don't invite anyone into the house without the permission of a parent or babysitter.
- Do not go to a friend's house without letting anyone know where you are.
- Avoid houses of people you don't know unless with a parent or babysitter.
- Never get into anyone's car without permission from a parent.
- Never take candy or other gifts from anyone you don't know without first asking permission from a parent.
- Never play in deserted buildings or isolated areas.
- If you are moved anywhere by force, scream and scatter books and belongings.
- Move away from a car that pulls up beside you.
- Memorize your telephone number and address.
- Know that it's all right to say "No" to an adult or anyone else who wants you to do something you know is wrong.
- If lost or separated from a parent or babysitter at a store, go to the nearest cashier or other store worker.
For older children and teens:
- Let someone know where you are at all times, either by note or phone message.
- Never hitchhike.
- Avoid shortcuts through empty parks, fields, laneways or alleyways.
- If you are being followed, run home or go to the nearest public place and yell for help.
- Learn to recognize suspicious behavior and remember a description of the person or vehicle to give a parent or the police. Write license plate numbers in the dirt or snow if nothing else is available.
- If attacked for money, jewelry or clothing, give it up rather than risk injury.
- Find a trusted adult (usually a parent) who is willing to listen to what you have to say, and who is willing to pick you up at any time and place for any reason.
For parents:
- Avoid putting your child's name on clothing and toys. A child is less likely to fear someone who knows his/her name and may not realize where the abductor learned it.
- Check the background and experience of all your child's potential babysitters and older friends.
- Never leave your child alone in a public place, stroller or car - not even for a moment.
- Always accompany young children to the bathroom in a public place and advise them never to play in or around the area.
- Always accompany your child on door-to-door activities (Halloween, school fund-raising campaigns, etc.).
- Point out safe houses or homes with the "Block Parent" sign where children can go if they are in trouble.
This information is courtesy of http://www.childsid.com
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