How to Avoid Becoming the Victim of a Violent Crime

In this article I will provide some valuable tips for protection against violent crimes, whether you're at home, in the car, shopping or on the street. I have found some basic precautions you can take to help avoid becoming the victim of a violent crime. Here are some of those tips.

In Your Car:

Carjacking has become a very commonplace crime and the criminals do it for the thrill of the crime. Here are some precautions you can take.

Always keep your doors locked while driving.

Keep your windows closed in slow traffic and at red lights.

When coming to a stop, leave room between you and the vehicle in front of you. This will allow you to maneuver around the vehicle if necessary.

Pay attention to your surroundings. Most carjackers always approach on foot.

Avoid distractions, such as combing your hair, adding make-up, fumbling with CDs, etc.

Park your vehicle in well lit areas; preferably under street lights.

Park as close to the entrance to your destination as possible.

Avoid parking next to potential areas that allow concealment or "hiding places", such as dumpsters, wooded areas, etc.

Scan the parking lot before approaching your car. Try to walk with other people and ask a store employee or security guard for an escort if you are alone.

Have your key ready in your hand as you approach your vehicle and look between the vehicles. Look inside the vehicle before you get in. If you sense danger, retreat to a place of safety and call law enforcement immediately. Do not confront an intruder!

"Conceal your valuables!" Never leave anything of value where someone walking by your vehicle can see it; use the trunk or rear compartment for storage. You would be amazed at the things people will take out of your vehicle.

On the Street:

Carry purses close to the body - not dangling by the straps; be able to release them if necessary. Avoid shoulder straps across the body and straps wrapped around the wrist. If someone tries to take your wallet or purse, let it go. Trying to resist could result in serious injury or worse.

Items such as fanny packs seem to be an unattractive target for thieves.

Try to use automated teller machines during daylight hours.

Have your card in hand and don't approach the machine if you're uneasy about people nearby or sense trouble.

Stick to well lit, well traveled streets and areas. Avoid shortcuts through, parking lots, or alleys.

Don't wear shoes or clothing that restricts your movements.

If you think someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk toward an open business, restaurant, or well lit house. If you're scared don’t hesitate to "yell" for help.

On the bus or train, don’t sit next to an exit door or place purses, briefcases or purchases on an empty seat. Thieves tend to grab valuables as they are leaving or while doors are closing. If this happens to you, don’t resist. Most thieves only want your money or property but can turn violent if confronted.

While Shopping:

Always check your doors and windows before leaving the house. If you intend to be away for an extended period of time leave a television or radio on. It’s always a good idea to leave a light on if you intend to be away after dark.

Don’t make it easy for pickpockets. Carry your wallet in an inside pocket, preferably one which can be fastened, rather than your back pocket. If someone bumps into you in a crowd, check to make sure you still have your wallet or purse.

Carry a wallet instead of a purse; if possible leave your purse in the trunk of your vehicle.

If you do carry a purse, use the seatbelt on a shopping cart to strap it in and never leave your purse unattended.

Don't flash large amounts of cash or other tempting targets like expensive jewelry or clothing.

Do not carry so many packages that your vision is blocked.

Do not purchase large quantities of items and leave them visible while unattended in your vehicle. If you plan a day of shopping make arrangements to insure your packages will be safe and secure.

If you sense you’re being followed while walking to/from your vehicle don’t panic, avoid eye contact and return to the business/store and immediately report the incident to business/store personnel and local law enforcement.

If you discover that you’re being followed while driving, "don’t stop". Drive to a safe location and report the incident immediately to local law enforcement. A good, reliable cellular phone can be a life saver

At Home:

Keep windows and doors locked, especially after you turn in for the night.

Keep curtains drawn after dark. Most home intruders are opportunists.

Install deadbolt locks with reinforced strike plates on all front, back and side doors.

A well lit home is always a good deterrent for thieves. Keep garages, storage buildings and sheds locked when not in use. Don’t invite thieves by leaving items such as lawnmowers, leaf blowers and lawn tools in the open and unattended.

Boats and campers can be prime targets because they are seasonal. Remember to remove expensive items such as fishing, hunting and camping equipment when not in use. A good trailer/tow lock is worth its weight in gold.

The Lumpkin County Sheriff's Office works extremely hard to provide our citizen’s and visitors with the utmost professional services possible. We are dedicated to insuring a safe environment for you to enjoy our beautiful county. We ask that you become involved. If you sense that you are a victim or witness to a crime don’t hesitate to call. Allow us to keep our county a safe place to live and visit. I appreciate you taking time to read my article; I hope you found it helpful and informative. I would like to hear from you, if you have an idea for an article, you can contact me with the information provided below.

Source: Captain Danny Peck Uniform Patrol Commander, Lumpkin County Sheriff's Office (706) 864-0414 ext. 566. e-mail:dpeck@lumpkinsheriff.com