Personal Safety Basics

The First Rule of Safety

• Someone must always know:

1. Where you are going.
2. With whom you are going.
3. When you will be back.

Even if you live alone or nobody is home, leave a note at your residence with the above information.

Driving

1. Keep your doors locked at all times.
2. Have a cellular telephone.
3. Keep an adequate amount of gas in your vehicle.
4. Don't stop to assists strangers. Call for help for them on your cellular telephone.
5. If your car breaks down, call for help on your cellular telephone and stay with your car.
6. Be aware of your surroundings.

Parking Lots and Public Areas (Under Table of Topics, see "Always be aware of your surroundings.")

1. At night, park only where it is well lit.
2. Avoid desolate areas.
3. Lock your doors when you leave your vehicle.
4. Approach your vehicle with your keys ready.
5. Remember where you parked.
6. Check your back seat before getting in.
7. Be aware of your surroundings.

Walking, Jogging, or Biking

1. Use the buddy system (a protective dog counts).
2. Try to avoid walking, jogging, or biking during hours of darkness.
3. Let somebody know where you are going.
4. Avoid desolate areas.
5. Vary your route and schedule.
6. Be aware of your surroundings.

At Home

1. Keep your doors locked, especially at night.
2. When answering the door, verify who it is (look out the window, look through the peephole, etc.).
3. If you don't know who it is, or you feel uncomfortable about the person, don't open the door.

In any situation

1. Trust your instincts, especially if you sense danger.
2. Don't hesitate to call the police, even if you are uncertain. Error on the side of caution.