Always, lock your door, even when you intend to return home shortly or even if you are just going down the hall. It takes a thief ten seconds or less to enter an open room and steal your property.

Lock or secure all doors and windows when you are alone or asleep.

Keep emergency numbers by the phone.

Do not let strangers enter your apartment, dormitory room, or any premises.

Do not prop open outer doors.

If someone asks to use your phone for an emergency call, offer to make the telephone call for them instead of allowing them access.

Do not put your address on your key ring.

Know your neighbors.

Do not leave keys in hiding places. Thieves will find them. Carry your keys or make sure that anyone who truly needs them has their own copy.

Call 9-1-1 to report suspicious persons or activity in or around your neighborhood.

Keep automatic teller machine cards in a safe place, keep your PIN number a secret. When possible, only use ATMs during the day.

Instead of carrying large sums of cash, use a charge card. Some charge cards insure property purchased with those cards against loss, theft or damage.

If you find yourself in immediate danger, call 9-1-1; try to stay calm and get away at the first opportunity.

Avoid walking alone at night unless absolutely necessary.

Keep to well lit commonly traveled routes.

Avoid shortcuts and dark, isolated areas.

Walk like you have a purpose, know where you are going, project a no-nonsense image.

Avoid potentially dangerous situations.

If you feel threatened, cross the street, locate an emergency phone, or enter a store or place of business even if you have just left it.

Have your door keys ready; carry them in your pockets, not buried in your purse.

Look into your car before getting in. Lock doors and roll up windows once inside for protection.

Never ever pick up hitchhikers. I say again, NEVER EVER pick up hitchhikers.

Carry change for emergency calls. 9-1-1 is a free call, but just in case.

Drive to a police or fire station or open place of business if you feel that you are being followed.

Do not stop to help occupants of stopped or disabled vehicles. Continue driving to the nearest phone and call assistance for them.

Raise the hood, then lock yourself into your car if it breaks down. If someone stops and offers help, remain in your car and ask them to phone for help. Do not worry about seeming rude.