10 Tips: Avoid Being a Robbery Victim

From Cody Telep. Follow him on Twitter @codywt, email him at cody[AT]borderstan.com.

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has created a card with safety tips designed to help citizens prevent becoming the victim of a robbery. The 10 tips are listed below.

The card encourages residents to always be aware of their surroundings and to pay attention to activity happening around them. Avoiding distractions from electronic devices is particularly important.

Trying to multitask while walking can lead to victimization — MPD stresses it is best to walk with a purpose and with confidence and not try to text, take phone calls, listen to music, or check email while walking. If possible, do not walk alone and only walk through well-lit and well-traveled areas.

MPD also recommends only using ATMs in well-populated areas when it is light outside. Do not display large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry or electronic items.

To prevent pickpocketing, men should avoid carrying their wallet in a back pocket and instead carry it in a front pocket or an inside jacket pocket. Women are encouraged to carry a small purse that can be held in their hand.

Tips for Reducing Your Chances of Being a Crime Victim

1. Always be aware of your surroundings, vigilant of activity around you and attentive to individuals approaching, walking purposely and with confidence.
2. Do not allow yourself to be distracted by activity such as talking on your cell phone, listening to music or reading.
3. Try to travel with others, walk in well-traveled areas, and at night in well-lighted areas.
4. Protect your electronics by not displaying them.
5. Resist the urge to multi-task while walking; wait to make phone calls, check your email and listen to music at your destination.
6. If you purchase an electronic device check on the availability of a tracking system for the device (usually free at time of purchase).
7. Do not use ATMs that are located in remote areas, use ATMs during the daylight hours in well-populated areas.
8. Do not display large amounts of cash when paying for items, and do not display exces­sive jewelry.
9. Men: if you carry wallet, place the wallet in your front hip pocket or inside jacket pocket- do not carry in your back pant pocket.
10. Women: when you will be walking in public spaces carry a small handbag or purse that you can grasp with a hand.

This story originally ran on December 20, 2012.

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