Be aware of your surroundings.
Be familiar with who is coming and going - who belongs and who doesn't.
Know your neighbors and
learn who can be called for assistance when needed.
Women may be safer using
only first initials and last names on mailboxes and in phone directories.
Change locks when you
move into a new residence. Make sure your doors have dead bolt locks, security
chains, and peepholes, USE THEM!
Don't hide spare keys
outdoors.
Check ID when repair
people, salespeople, meter readers, etc.. come to the door. Don't hesitate
to call and check them out or refuse them admittance if something feels wrong.
If you let someone in
and have second thoughts, be assertive. Tell them to leave or leave yourself.
Pretend you are not home alone by mentioning a friend or family member asleep
in the next room.
Make sure entrances,
garages, grounds, and hallways are well lighted.
Leave porch lights on
at night or when you expect to return after dark. Leave an interior light
on in a room or two with the shades drawn. Leave a radio on.
Instruct children and
babysitters not to give out information about who is home, who is out or for
how long.
Don't leave notes on
your door for others or allow solicitor's material to remain on your doorknob
since they advertise your absence.
If you suspect your home
has been broken into, don't go in or out, go someplace else and call the police.
In your
car
Keep car doors locked
at all times, and windows rolled up all the way.
Do not stop to help a
stranger in a stalled vehicle, go to a safe place and report the stalled vehicle
to the police.
Don't pick up hitchhikers.
If you are being followed,
don't go home. Drive to the nearest fire or police station or an open gas
station, anyplace with people around.
Try to keep your car
maintained, and keep your gas tank at least half full.
If security staff are
available to walk you to your car, don't be embarrassed to use them.
If you leave keys with
a parking attendant or at a service station, leave only the car (not the house)
key.