Crime Prevention Tips

• Never open your door to a stranger. Respond to a knock or ring with something like: "I'll get it, George!". Give the caller or visitor the impression you are not alone.
• Use a peephole and safety chain when answering the door. Ask for identification from salesman, deliveryman, or repairman. Call the company if you're in doubt.

• It is against the law to make obscene or harassing phone calls. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately.
• Do not give out any information.
• Call your local phone company and ask for the Annoyance Call Center.
• If calls persist, call your local police department or sheriff's department.

• Do not walk alone; use the "Buddy System".
• Wear comfortable clothing for freedom of movement.
• Avoid walking in poorly lighted areas. Always walk on the sidewalk.
• Walk confidently, purposefully, and briskly. Always be familiar with your surroundings. (Be Alert)
• Plan your route and do not take unfamiliar shortcuts. Notify family and friends of your route and expected time of arrival.
• Carry a flashlight if you're walking at night and a whistle to attract attention.
• Don't accept rides.

• If you feel someone is following you find the nearest lighted and populated place as if it were your actual destination. Go to the door and ring the bell or go inside (i.e. home, gas station, business, police department)
• If a car pulls alongside you, change your pace, cross the street, and/or turn and walk in the opposite direction.

• Let a friend or relative know what time to expect you home.
• Go with at least one friend and keep track of each other.
• Do not give out your telephone number.
• Watch your drink because drugs like Ruffies, GHB, and "Special K" are very popular in the nightclubs and are often slipped into drinks. These drugs can take away your ability to fight back and to remember.
• Do not leave a club or party with someone you just met.
• If you decide to "step outside for a breath of fresh air or quiet conversation", tell your friends your plans and give them an approximate time of how long you'll be gone.
• If you meet someone new, make sure to introduce them to your friends by their full name.

• Tell your friends and/or parents where you are going and what your plans are.
• Before you go out with your date for the first time, check out your date's phone numbers and "Story".
• Call to confirm your date.
• Meet your date at the pre-planned location and drive your own car.
• Meet at a neutral (public) place for the first date or have friends go along.
• After a date, if you decide to invite your date to your home or agree to go to his or her home, be sure of what you may be implying.
• Be sure you have communicated your sexual limits clearly. Do not give mixed messages. Say "yes" when you mean "yes" and "no" when you mean "no".