How to Avoid Being a Victim: IN PUBLIC

1. Stay alert to your surroundings. Take note of who is behind and ahead of you. Use your peripheral vision to keep track of anyone gaining on you.

2. Get away. Don’t second-guess your instincts just to avoid embarrassment or give someone the benefit of the doubt. If you think you’re being followed, cross the street if possible and go to a well-lit place where there are other people.

3. Carry a shrill whistle and don’t be embarrassed to use it if you suspect you may be in danger.

4. Always walk as if you know exactly where you are going. Stand up straight and make brief, self-confident eye contact with people around you. Police believe that rapists and muggers target victims who appear vulnerable, weak, easily intimidated, or who seem to be daydreaming. Conduct yourself accordingly!

5. Hold on to your valuables. Women should carry their purses close to the body. Men should carry wallets in inside coat pockets, not pants pockets.

6. Don’t look like an easy target. Avoid carrying large amounts of money and wearing obviously expensive jewelry. Handle your money and credit cards carefully; try not to display them while making transactions.

7. Plan the safest route when walking—day or night. Avoid alleys, vacant lots, deserted streets, and construction sites.

8. Lighten your load. Avoid walking with a large load of packages or grocery bags. They slow you down and make it difficult to react quickly.

9. On public transportation:

• Avoid sitting near doors and exits. You are more vulnerable to being robbed or attacked by a criminal on foot.

• Be aware of who gets off a bus or train with you. If you think you’re being followed, walk directly to an area with other people and good lighting.

10. In an elevator:

• Take a quick look before getting in an elevator. If someone suspicious is on board, or gets on with you, back out and wait for another car.

• Stand near the elevator controls.

• If you are attacked, hit the alarm and as many floor buttons as possible