Robbery Prevention

Tips to Reduce your Risk of Robbery:

Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Factors that decrease your ability to be alert and aware are drugs and alcohol, fatigue, and distraction (cell phone, iPod, etc.). Also, make sure you always know your location so if you had to call for help, you could tell the police where you are.

Plan ahead. Make arrangements to get too and from your destination safely (Designated Driver, Bus/Trolley, Cab).

Trust your instincts. If you see someone you think may be up to no good, take action. Make eye contact with them so they know you saw them. Move to the other side of the street or turn around. Get to a safe, well lit location. If you think they might be following you or waiting for you, call 9-1-1.

Report suspicious activity. Even if the person does not approach you, if you believe they are suspicious, report it to the police. You may prevent someone else from being robbed.

Don’t hesitate or be afraid to call the police. If you have to ask yourself if you should call the police, you should call the police. If you think you might be at risk, the police are the ones who can get to you the fastest and help you. Even if you have been drinking, don’t hesitate to call the police. Your safety is their first priority.

If it Happens to You:

Stay calm.

Follow their instructions and give them what they want. No money or property is worth risking your health or safety for.

Do what you must to survive.

Call the police IMMEDIATELY. Try to give the police a good description of the person, a vehicle if there is a vehicle involved, and direction of travel. Tell them about clothing (including layered clothing); gender; race; hair length, color and style; scars, marks or tattoos; facial hair, etc.