Know more about the neighborhoods where you live and work. Find out the locations of police and fire stations, public telephones, hospitals, restaurants, or stores that are open late. If you are ever in trouble it'll be easier to find help if you know where to go or run to.

Safety While Walking or Jogging Day or Night

-Always stick to well-lit and well-traveled streets. This is much safer than those dark and lonely streets where many attacks occur.

-Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots or alleys. It just makes sense to take a few extra minutes to walk the safer routes.

-Don't flash money or other tempting targets like jewelry or clothing. If you want to keep it, keep it hidden.

-Carry a purse close to your body and not dangling by the straps. An purse snatcher has easier access if your purse straps are hanging loose to grab onto.

-Put your wallet in an inside coat pocket or front pants pocket - never a back pocket. Carry only what is necessary and try not to keep currency and credit cards all in one place.

-Don't wear shoes or clothing that restricts your movements. Walking a distance to your care, for example, would be much easier and safer in sneakers than in high heels or flip flops.

-Have your car or house key in hand before you reach the door. The quicker you can get into the house the better chance that an attacker will not reach you before you enter.

-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. Better yet, only use the ATM machines inside of grocery store, malls or gas stations. Again, well lit areas and easy access to people that will help is the way to go.

-If you think someone is following you switch direction or cross the street. Walk quickly toward an open store, restaurant or lighted house.

-If someone harasses you don't be embarrassed to say loudly, "Leave me alone! Someone call the police! Get away!" This will typically send the person in another direction and away from you or others coming to help you.

If a Robber Attempts to Steal from You

-Dont resist when confronted. Trying to fight will only make the aggressor angry and they may physically harm you as well as steal your possessions.

-Give up your belongings willingly. Nothing you possess is worth risking your life over.

-Report the crime to the police abd ry to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions may result in you getting your stolen items back and can help prevent others from being victims.

Vehicle Safety

-Keep your car in good running condition. Make sure there's always enough gas to get where you're going and back.

-Always roll up the windows and lock car doors even if you're coming right back and never leave a key in the car. Check your vehicle inside and out before getting in. Check around your vehicle from a distance to see if anyone is lurking near your car. Always check the back seats before opening your door.

-Avoid parking in isolated areas. Be especially alert in lots and underground parking garages. If something doesn't feel right - turn and go in the opposite direction and look for someone to help you get to your vehicle safely.

-If you think someone is following you while driving don't drive to you home. Drive to the nearest police or fire station, gas station or other open business to get help This will deter anyone from continuing to follow you to your house where they may attack you or steal your possessions.

Take a Stand in Your Community

-Make your neighborhood and working place safer by reporting broken street lights, cleaning up parks and vacant lots, asking your local government for better lighting in public places.

-Initiate a watch program in your neighborhood and/or contact your local crime prevention unit. You would be surprised how many people will be willing to help with such a task to keep their homes and families safe.

-You may also consider carrying something to protect youself such as mace, pepper spray or a stun gun. Check the local laws in your area to be sure they are legal where you live before purchasing.