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How To Protect Yourself
From Armed Robbery
While a purse snatching is
one of today's most common crimes
facing women, strong arm robbery
(hold-ups, muggings) is the
most prevalent act where men are generally
the victims.
By observing the basic rules of "common sense" your
chances
of being victimized are greatly reduced. Since most strong
arm
robberies occur during the hours between sunset and sunrise,
the
best rule to follow is simply to stay inside at night.
However, to even
consider being confined to a secure area
after the sun goes down is not
only impossible, it is also
ridiculous. By observing basic
precautionary measures, chances
of your becoming a robbery victim are
greatly reduced. Here
are some general rules to follow:
1.
Travel well-lighted streets. Avoid dark corners, alleys
and entrances
to buildings. Always try to walk on the side of
the street nearest
oncoming traffic.
2. If you must travel at night regularly, don't carry
more
than you can afford to lose. One
suggestion is to carry a
second wallet containing a few $1.00 bills and
old credit
cards, which are normally destroyed or discarded. If
confronted
at knife or gunpoint, give the suspect the second wallet
and
concentrate on a good physical description to give to the
police.
3. There's safety in numbers! If possible, walk with
a
companion - either male or female. An armed robber is less
likely
to confront two or more, than a lone individual.
4. When waiting for a
bus or streetcar, try to select a
well lighted area. Aim for a busy
stop where many people
will be coming and going.
5. Don't hitchhike
or accept rides from strangers.
6. Avoid taking shortcuts through
deserted areas such as
parks, playgrounds, vacant lots, etc.
7. Be
cautious entering your car - someone may be hiding
inside. Or, when
leaving your car - someone may be waiting.
Park in well-lighted
areas.
8. Never carry weapons that can be used against you.
9 If
someone ask directions, keep a polite but safe distance.
10. If you are
alone and think you are being followed,
head for an occupied building
such as a bar, restaurant,
filling station, fire station, etc. If none
is available,
cross the street in the middle of
the block. If there is
street vehicular traffic, try to stop a car for
help.
IF YOU ARE CONFRONTED. . . . .
1. DO NOT RESIST!
Cooperate! Give the criminal whatever he
asks for - wallet, keys,
jewelry, credit cards or whatever.
Your life is more valuable than
replaceable possessions.
2. Don't make any sudden, unexpected moves. A
nervous
criminal may think you are reaching for a concealed
weapon.
3. If the suspect claims he has a gun, knife, razor
or
whatever in his pocket, never try to force his bluff.
4. Never
try to be a hero and apprehend the criminal
yourself.
5. Notify
police as soon as possible.