Maize Morse Tri Area Civic Assc.

Important Summer Safety Tips

• Walk with Confidence.  Look like you know where you are going.

• If you are approached by a suspicious looking stranger, cross the street or walk away quickly.

• Avoid shortcuts through dark alleys or deserted streets.

• Use the buddy system.  Travel and shop with companions whenever possible, both during the day and at night.  There is greater safety in numbers.  Let someone know where you are going and when you will return.

• Do not carry large sums of money.

• If you must carry a purse, carry it close to your body but do not wrap the strap around your wrist or shoulder.  If someone demands your purse or tries to take it from you, let it go.  Do not fight for it. 

• When entering your home or car, always have your keys ready in your hand.

• If a motorist bothers you while you are walking, turn and walk in the opposite direction of the vehicle.

• Stop mail and newspaper deliveries.
• Have a trusted friend or neighbor pick-up any packages or other items that are left at your home.
• Ask a friend/neighbor to check on your home regularly and to report anything suspicious to the police.
• Be certain someone can reach you in an emergency.
• Almost half of burglars gain entry through an unlocked door or window.  Ensure that all windows and doors are locked.
• Leave some lights on a timer.
• Call the police to arrange a “house check” while you are out of town.

• Keep your car in good working order and the gas tank filled.
• Use major streets and plan your route ahead of time.
• Keep your car doors locked and when stopped or slowed in traffic…keep your windows closed.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
• If someone attempts to force you off the road, slow down and blow your horn to attract attention.
• If you believe someone is following you, stay on major streets and head for an open business, hospital, police or fire station. Look for parking lots full of lights and people.
• Park in well-lit areas.  Always note where you parked using aisle numbers.  Before entering your vehicle check the interior/back seat. Have your car keys out and ready to open your car door.
• If traveling, tell someone where you are going, when you should arrive and where/how you may be reached.
• Don’t succumb to road rage.

• Be suspicious of friendly strangers who offer goods or services at low rates or claim to have found money to share.
• Avoid using Automated Teller Machines (ATM) at night or when suspicious persons are standing nearby.
• Keep your wallet in an inside jacket or side pants pocket.
• Summer is the time for many frauds. Gutter and driveway repairs, painting and house repairs, and many other schemes are used to separate honest people from their money.  Do not sign a contract on impulse. Always check insurance, licensing and references.  If you believe it is a scam, call the police immediately.  Remember, nothing of value comes for free!

• Try not to panic.  If robbed, robbers usually are excited and may be provoked easily.
• Look at the attacker as carefully as you safely can so you can give a good description to the police.
• If the attacker only wants your money or possessions, don’t fight.  Your life and safety are more important.
• Report all crimes to the Columbus Division of Police.  For non-emergencies, call       645-4545 and for life threatening emergencies, call 911.  Pre-program both phone numbers in your cell phone.