Basic Street Sense
The big city can be fun, vibrant, exciting, and culturally enriching! But as in any large metropolitian city, it can be very dangeous. We should always be aware of were we're are at all all times. Don't allow yourself into a false sense of security. In short, when your out and about. Let's be safe when your on the streets!
Here are some common sense basic street smarts provided by the Los Angeles Police Department. It would be wise to review them with your young children also.
Wherever you are - on the street, in an office building or shopping mall, driving, waiting for a bus or subway - stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings. Send the message that you're calm, confident, and know where you're going.
Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, avoid the person or leave.
Know the neighborhoods where you live and work. Check out the locations of police and fire stations, public telephones, hospitals, and restaurants, or stores that are open late.
On Foot
Stick to well-traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots, or alleys.
Don't flash large amounts of cash or other tempting targets like expensive jewelry or clothing. Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an 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.
Have your car or house key in hand before you reach the door. If you think someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk toward an open store, restaurant, or lighted house. If you're scared, yell for help.
Have to work late? Make sure there are others in the building, and ask someone - a colleague or security guard - to walk you to your car or transit stop.
The big city can be fun, vibrant, exciting, and culturally enriching! But as in any large metropolitian city, it can be very dangeous. We should always be aware of were we're are at all all times. Don't allow yourself into a false sense of security. In short, when your out and about. Let's be safe when your on the streets!
Here are some common sense basic street smarts provided by the Los Angeles Police Department. It would be wise to review them with your young children also.
Wherever you are - on the street, in an office building or shopping mall, driving, waiting for a bus or subway - stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings. Send the message that you're calm, confident, and know where you're going.
Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, avoid the person or leave.
Know the neighborhoods where you live and work. Check out the locations of police and fire stations, public telephones, hospitals, and restaurants, or stores that are open late.
On Foot
Stick to well-traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots, or alleys.
Don't flash large amounts of cash or other tempting targets like expensive jewelry or clothing. Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an 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.
Have your car or house key in hand before you reach the door. If you think someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk toward an open store, restaurant, or lighted house. If you're scared, yell for help.
Have to work late? Make sure there are others in the building, and ask someone - a colleague or security guard - to walk you to your car or transit stop.
