Crime Prevention tips

[patrick...@dc.gov]

Robbery and assault are serious crimes. While money is often the motivation, these incidents are considered crimes of violence because they involve the threat or actual use of physical violence. The basic rules of prevention are to be sensible and to be alert. The following tips will also help reduce the risk of robbery or assault.

Personal Safety Tips on the Street

• If possible, don't walk alone during late-night hours. Walk in groups whenever you can—there is always safety in numbers.
• Let a family member or friend know your destination and your estimated time of arrival or return. That way, the police can be notified as quickly as possible if there is a problem.
• Stay in well-lit areas as much as possible. Avoid alleys, vacant lots, wooded areas, and other short-cuts or secluded areas. They are usually not well-lit or heavily traveled.
• Walk on the sidewalk whenever possible. Walk close to the curb, avoiding doorways, bushes, and other potential hiding places.
• If you have to walk in the street, walk facing traffic. A person walking with traffic can be followed, forced into a car, and abducted more easily than a person walking against traffic.
• Walk confidently, directly, and at a steady pace. Don't stop to talk to strangers.
• Wear clothing and shoes that give you freedom of movement. And don't burden yourself with too many packages or items.
• Always be aware of your surroundings. If you are wearing headphones, don't turn up the volume so high that you cannot hear outside noises.
• Never hitchhike or accept rides from strangers.
• Report any suspicious activity or person immediately to the Metropolitan Police Department at 9-1-1.
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash, or displaying expensive jewelry in public.