Paul Dreher Director of Personal Insurance View Bio

This article was shared to us by our friends at Central Insurance Companies.

 

The news seems to be full of crime related activities that cause loss of security, property, and life. Despite the prominence of these events, research shows that people still don’t always take the proper steps to ensure their personal safety.

In this article, we explore the importance of resilience and review the National Crime Prevention Council’s top tips for staying safe.

10 Tips for Personal Safety

The National Crime Prevention Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing crime across the country. Below, we’ve outlined this group’s top ten tips individuals and families can take to stay safe.

  1. Avoid spending time outdoors during hours where streets are most often deserted, such as early morning or late at night. Joggers specifically should be wary of traveling alone and with headphones in during these off-times.
  2. If you must walk somewhere at night, do your best to have a friend accompany you. There is always safety in numbers.
  3. Do your best to only bring the money you will need for a particular event with you when you go. The worst thing you can do is flash a lot of cash or have a wallet full of credit cards sticking out of your bag in a crowded area, as this is likely to draw the attention of dangerous individuals.
  4. In general avoid displaying cash or any other inviting targets when you’re out in public. Wearing overly expensive clothing or jewelry can signal to others that you’re someone with a lot of luxury items to steal.
  5. If you think someone is following you, switch directions or cross the street. If the person continues to follow you, move quickly toward an open store, restaurant, or a well-lit house. Do not be afraid to yell for help.
  6. Always try to park in a well-lit area. Even if you’re parking in the daytime, consider the potential that your event might last into evening and plan accordingly. When possible, also try to park near busy areas with stores, restaurants, or a lot of foot traffic.
  7. If you must leave your car in a lot, do your best to park as close to the entrance as possible.
  8. Always lock your car, even if it’s in your own driveway. Never exit your car with your key still in the ignition or with it inside the car—especially if you have a push-to-start vehicle.
  9. Do everything you can to keep a stranger from getting into your car or prevent a stranger from forcing you into his or her car.
  10. If you’ve been abused by a loved one, do not meet him or her alone. Do not let him or her in your home or car when you’re alone.

Communication is Key

Talk to your friends, family, and children about how to stay safe and be aware of their surroundings. Often times, children learn about stranger danger but tend to forget that real danger can include anyone such as parents, teachers, and other caregivers.

People of all ages need to know what boundaries to set since looks can be deceiving. Remind your loved ones to always pay attention to the small details of what you know and see, and, above all else, trust your instincts.