How to Avoid Being a Victim

We live in an unpredictable world. Studies actually show that most accidents and incidents occur within a five mile radius of person's home. This because we let our guards down in areas we are familiar with. Knowing this, it is very important to be aware of ways to protect yourself and belongings from a predator.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Alarm System
• Proper door locks
• Alarm indicator sign

How to Avoid Being a Victim

1. Be proactive. Contact your local police department and ask for the crime prevention unit. This unit provides a free service in which they will come out to your home and assess it for vulnerability. The officers will inform you of ways to improve your home's safety features such as upgrading locks and planting shrubbery that makes it more difficult to access windows. Lock your door whenever you leave your house, even for a short walk. Consider installing an alarm system and put signs in your yard to indicate that you have an alarm. You can do this whether you have an alarm or not. It is also a good idea to take a self-defense class. Some people also choose to carry pepper spray with them.
2. Be aware. Before going from any one point to another, scan your environment. Be on the lookout for anything out of the ordinary, whether it be an unfamiliar person or suspicious looking vehicle. If you are uncomfortable in any way, stay where you are at or have an escort accompany you to your destination. Predators prey on the weak and the vulnerable so try to minimize your distractions. Being on your cell phone or listening to a loud playing I Pod will likely cause you to be less aware of your environment.
3. Follow your instincts. Many interviewed victims report that they ignored their instincts due to a fear of being paranoid. You have your instincts for a reason, if something you see (or even feel) makes you uncomfortable, remove yourself from the situation. This may mean switching parking spots at the mall, choosing to take a walk later when your spouse can join you, or even reporting something unusual to the police. It is far better to be safe than sorry.
4. Have others be on the lookout. Get to know your neighbors and agree to look out for one another's homes and belongings. If your community has a neighborhood watch program, join it.