Stay safe when you're away from home

When you're out of the house shopping, driving or walking, you could become a victim of crime. Use these safety tips to help stay safe.

When you're away from home:

• Avoid carrying large sums of money, jewelry or valuables.
• Leave your important papers at home. Documents such as birth certificates, medical records, or excessive credit cards will be difficult to replace if you are the victim of a street crime.
• Walk confidently. Behave in an alert and self-assured fashion. People who appear to know exactly where they are going and are aware of their surroundings are less vulnerable than those who appear timid and confused.
• Be cautious when approached by strangers.
• Avoid getting into an elevator alone with a stranger. If you must get into the elevator alone, stand near the control panel. If you become suspicious or feel threatened, push all the buttons so that the elevator will stop at the next floor and exit the elevator immediately. Ring the bell in an emergency.
• When traveling, use credit cards instead of cash. Always travel with a companion.
• Keep your distance from drivers who stop you to ask for directions. Stay out of the person's reach by remaining a few feet from the vehicle.

When you're driving:

• Drive with your car doors locked.
• Don't become a creature of habit: vary your driving or walking route when commuting to work, shopping or conducting personal business.
• Don't leave your car keys or valuables in an unattended automobile, and don't leave packages where they will be visible. Lock all valuables inside your trunk.
• If you become lost while driving or walking, get to the nearest public place and ask for directions.
• Never leave small children unattended in your vehicle, not even for a short time.
• Park your car or walk only in well-lit, populated areas. Avoid dark, deserted areas. Have your car keys in hand before approaching your vehicle.
• Check your surroundings before venturing into parking lots or other unfamiliar areas. If you observe something suspicious, remain indoors and report it immediately.
• Check the back seat of your vehcile before getting into it.