•
Stay
in well-lit, well-traveled streets. Walk halfway between
curbs
and buildings, away from alleys, entries, and bushes.
Avoid shortcuts
through wooded areas, parking lots, or alleys.
•
Try
to travel in pairs. It reduces your chance of being a victim
of a
street crime.
•
Don’t
flash large amounts of cash or other tempting targets like
expensive jewelry or clothing.
• If you are followed, be suspicious. Keep looking behind
you and you may
discourage the follower. If someone is following
you on foot, cross the
street, change directions, or vary your pace. If
someone follows you in
a car, turn around and walk in the opposite direction.
•
Carry
a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps.
Put
your wallet in your inside coat or front pants pocket,
not a back pocket.
•
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.
•
Don’t
wear shoes or clothing that restrict your movements.
• Plan the safest route to your destination and use it.
•
Have
your car or house key in hand before you reach the door.
•
Never
hitchhike, or “hack”. Use university escort
van services. It's worth
the wait.
• Avoid using cell phones or MP3 players while walking.
Suspects target
phones and other items in plain view.
