Public Safety Tips
Being safe in your day to day life requires awareness. Keep in mind that attackers and criminals are looking for easy targets, people who are easy to intimidate and control.

1. Have a plan
Always be aware of your surroundings. When walking, walk with a friend and become familiar with the location of pay phones in case of an emergency. Note secluded areas to avoid and walk in well lit areas. Talk with a friend about strategies you might use in various situations.

2. Posture and attitude
Victim selection is usually made within the first 30 seconds of an encounter. Act confident even if you are scared.
• Walk assertively: head up and shoulders back. Stay aware; scan your path.
• Always keep at least one arm free; don't load yourself down with packages.
• Don't use headphones when running on the streets. You are cut off from your surroundings and can be easily surprised.
• Make brief eye contact as you walk. Make sure they know you know that they are there.
• Ideally, keep two-arms' distance between you and others.

3. Who
Attackers will target vulnerable people. Set your face; make it appear serious and strong. Make eye contact and don't look down. Looking down shows you are intimidated. Develop your own strong, confident look and practice this in the mirror. If you are going to wear expensive jewelry, carry it until you reach your destination, especially if you are taking public transportation or have a long walk to your car.

4. Preparations
Before you leave home, remove things you won't need that day. The less you carry, the less hesitant you will be giving up your bag or wallet. Shoulder bags should be carried toward the front of your body, not bouncing against your back. Back packs with back pockets are easy targets for thieves, especially in, crowded subways or buses. Take the pack off when stationary or in a group of people.

5. What to do
If you are being followed. Cross the street and go in the other direction. Let the person know that you know he/she is there . Next, go for help if needed. Do not lead your attacker to your home. You are safer on the street than you would be in your home or in an elevator.

6. ATM safety
As much as possible, use well-lit, busy ATMs in well-populated locations during daylight hours. Be aware of your surroundings and look around frequently. With the older machines, use your body to block the screen when entering your code. Avoid ATMs that are surrounded by shrubbery or trees, and don't use ATMs at the rear entrances of buildings or banks. Put your money away immediately. Do not count your money at the machine or sit in a parked car near an ATM.

7. Safety on public transportation
Use well-lighted stops. Try to arrive just a few minutes before departure. This prevents you from hanging out and being studied as a target. Don't sit alone. On buses, sit behind the driver or with friends. As you arrive at your destination, scan the stop for anyone lurking. If you spot someone suspicious or feel apprehensive, stay on board or ask the driver to wait a few moments. Don't sleep. Stay ALERT !!!!!!!!!!!!

8. Safety in taxis
lf you feel uncomfortable getting into a taxi, trust your instincts and flag another. Note the taxi company and the driver's name and number. If something feels strange, ask the driver to stop. Mention the driver's name so the person knows you have noted his or her identity.

9. Going to your car
Approach the car with your keys in your hand. Scan the area around the car as you get closer and glance under the car to see that no one is hiding. Be aware of people approaching you, and asking for directions. In general be aware of anyone getting too close to you as you get into your car. Keep at least two-arms' length distance away from them. Check the interior of the car before opening the door. Make this a habit. Always load your packages in the car before you put the kids inside. If your car gets carjacked, your family will be safe. While driving, keep your doors locked and the windows at least part-way up. If you feel that you are being followed, drive to the police or fire station, or another well-lit and populated area.

10. Phone harassment
Keep a record of hang-ups and annoying or harassing phone calls. Never engage or speak with the caller. Hang up and notify Public Safety. Note: Never put your name or phone number on your answering machine message.

11. Stalking
Tell the police and the Public Safety Department immediately. Be aggressive in getting the police involved. Provide a picture, if possible. Keep a list of everything that happens (phone calls, threats, sightings, etc.), and file everything with the police. Tell friends, family and co-workers that some one is harassing you. Tell them not to give out personal information about you or your activities. Consider legal means (e.g. restraining order).

12. Self-Defense Action Plan
• Enroll in a self-defense course (i.e. campus programs or course).
• If attacked, remember: In the face of a physical attack, immediate retreat is an excellent option. Assess your situation: Do you have safe place to go? Don't believe the attacker. If you are attacked in a public area and told, "Don't scream or I'll shoot!", SCREAM, Yell, "HELP POLICE!, Call 911! " Breathe and tell yourself positive statements: "I will be o.k., I can find a way out of this." Don't be nice. You may have to hurt someone to get away or to keep yourself safe. Remember: Survival is your goal. You may have to comply with something the attacker asks to survive the attack. Trust your instincts, and remember, you are doing the best you can in a very scary situation.