Helpful Tips for Your Personal Safety

Helpful Security Specialists cares about your personal safety and has prepared the following tips to keep in mind when you are in your home or out and about. You can download flyers with the following information for use at community meetings, on bulletin boards, or any other way you find useful.

Home Security [Download PDF Flyer]

• Secure all outside windows and doors using deadbolt locks
• Use a metal or wooden rods in the track of all sliding doors
• Obtain hardware that will allow windows to be left partially open during warm weather
• Provide good lighting at all entrances
• Use a door that provides a viewer; do not rely on chain locks
• Ask who it is before opening the door
• If you're asked to use your telephone, make the call for them
• Attend neighborhood watch meetings, know your neighbors
• When leaving your home, double check that all doors and windows are locked
• Call the police immediately if you notice signs of forced entry, do not enter
• When using automatic timers, it gives the appearance you are at home
• Stop all mail and deliveries when out of town

Telephone Safety (part of home security flyer)

• By no means give out any information about yourself to strangers
• Never admit that you're alone
• List your number without your address
• Consider listing your number only by using the initial of your first name

Out and About [Download PDF Flyer]

• Be alert Walk confident; notice who passes and who is behind you
• Use well lighted areas avoid walking near bus stops, alleys, etc.
• Chose apparel that gives you freedom of movement
• If caring bags don't overburden yourself that might make running difficult
• Carry a whistle and bring as little cash needed
• Keep your purse tightly close to your body. Keep your wallet in a front pocket
• Hitchhiking prohibited
• Remain at a safe distance if a car stops you for directions or information
• If a vehicle's occupants persist in bothering you, cross the street
• If you feel your being followed, check behind then walk or run to nearest lighted area
• If you feel that you are in danger, start to scream and run

In the Elevator [Download PDF Flyer]

• Always check before entering the elevator
• Riding alone stand near the control panel if accosted, press alarm
• If you are suspicious at all, wait for the next elevator

Transportation [Download PDF Flyer]

• Carry extra change for emergency calls
• Don't sit, while waiting for the bus, stand behind the bench
• Secures all packages, purses, etc.
• Stay alert, while riding on the bus
• If unsure of the route sit by the bus driver
• Observe who gets off at your stop
• Pass on hitchhiking arrange rides with friends
• Monitor your gas make sure your tank is full
• Double check that your car doors are locked at all time
• Before entering your car check front, back seat, floor, and underneath car
• If followed continue to blow horn and drive to nearby police or fire station
• When dropping a friend wait until they're safely inside his/her home before leaving
• Sign up for a complete self-defense course, one that includes awareness

Driving Safety (part of transportation flyer)

• Plan higher-risk errands for daytime like getting gas or going to ATM
• When approaching your car have your keys ready to use
• When possible travel with a passenger
• Know where the high crime areas are
• Upon entering your vehicle immediately lock car doors
• Don't leave valuables in plain sight
• If possible drive in the left or #1 lane
• If someone is attempting to flag you down, call for assistance from a safe phone
• If you feel your being followed drive directly to nearest Police or Fire Station
• When involved in a traffic accident, be on guard, some cars are used for insurance fraud
• Use various times and travel routes when making daily bank deposits
• Remember the most important point is to remain alert to what's going on around you