Three simple rules of safety

Stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings, wherever you are. Don't be taken by surprise. Be aware and be prepared.

Stand tall and walk confidently. Don't show fear. Don't look like a victim.

Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in a place or situation, leave right away and get help if necessary.

On foot

Choose busy streets and avoid going through vacant lots, alleys, or other deserted areas.

At night, walk in well-lighted areas whenever possible.

Try not to walk or jog alone. Take a friend or neighbor along for company.

Get to know the neighborhoods and neighbors where you live and work.

Find out what stores and restaurants are open late and where the police and fire stations are located.

Carry your purse close to your body and keep a firm grip on it.

Avoid pickpockets by carrying your wallet in an inside coat pocket or front-trouser pocket.

In your car

Always lock your car and take the keys, even if you'll be gone only a short time.

Keep your car in good running condition, and keep the tank at least a quarter full; lock doors while driving.

If your car breaks down, raise the hood and place emergency reflectors or flares. Then stay in the locked car. When someone stops to help, don't get out. Ask him or her, through a closed or cracked window, to telephone the police to come and help.

If you're coming or going after dark, park in a well-lighted area that will still be well-lighted when you return.

Be especially alert when using enclosed parking garages.

Don't walk into an area if you feel uncomfortable.

Leave only your ignition key with a parking attendant. Don't leave your house key or other keys on the key ring.

Never pick up hitchhikers. Never. And don't hitch rides yourself.

When using public transportation

When using the bus, be sure to have your fare out and ready before you leave home, office, or store.

Plan your route to use the busiest, best-lighted stop possible, both to get on and off a bus. If you must wait, stay in the best-lighted area available.

Keep your purse, shopping bag, backpack, packages, etc., in your lap, on your arm, or between your feet -- not by themselves on an empty seat.

Sit near the driver or operator, but not right next to the door.

Don't let yourself doze off on a bus. It can make you an easy target.

When using an ATM machine

Try to plan your visits to automatic teller machines during the day, rather than after dark.

Choose an ATM location that is in a busy public place.

Avoid making withdrawals in isolated areas.

If at all possible, take along a friend who can watch the surroundings while you are conducting your transaction.

Pre-plan your transaction carefully, and don't spend too much time at the machine.

When you make a withdrawal, quickly place the money in your purse or wallet and leave as soon as you finish your transaction.

Watch out for suspicious looking people waiting around an ATM-they may not really be customers.

If someone offers to let you go ahead of them, decline politely and leave.

When visiting a drive-through ATM, keep your doors locked and be prepared to drive away quickly. If anyone approaches your car on foot, roll up your window and drive off. If you have not finished your transaction, and you are approached by a suspicious character, press the CANCEL button, receive your card and leave quickly.