Briefing Room

Criminal Investigations Division

Crime Prevention Tips Gateway

Tips for
PERSONAL SAFETY

OFFICE SAFETY

Do not leave your purse on or in your desk unattended. Keep it with you or hide it in a locked desk drawer or cabinet.

Never give telephone numbers or addresses of fellow employees to any one without their permission and use discretion in revealing your own personal plans to people at work.

Be suspicious of unannounced or unexpected persons claiming to be repair or service people. Ask for their company ID and call the company for verification of repair/service.

PUBLIC ELEVATORS

Look inside the elevator before entering. If someone suspicious is already on the elevator, DO NOT get in.

If someone who is waiting to enter the elevator with you makes you feel uncomfortable, DO NOT get on with that person. Pretend you have forgotten something, leave or wait for the next elevator.

Once on the elevator, try to stand next to the control panel. If someone on the elevator bothers you, press all the buttons on panel. This will sound the alarm and open the doors on all floors, allowing you a greater opportunity to escape the situation.

VEHICLE SAFETY

Park in well-lighted areas so you can see your car and it's surroundings from as far away as possible.

Have your car keys ready before you approach the car so you do not make yourself vulnerable while searching for the right key.

Glance into the back seat and floorboards of your car before you enter, checking for anyone who may be hiding inside.

Always lock all doors whether you are in or out of your car. Keep the windows rolled up enough so that an arm cannot be inserted through the window opening.

Keep your purse on the floor or under the seat so you do not draw attention to it when stopped in traffic.

If you are bumped from behind by another vehicle, do not immediately exit your vehicle. ASSESS THE SITUATION. If you feel uneasy, remain in your vehicle until the police arrive. If the other party leaves the scene, try to note the vehicle description and tag number, but do not follow the vehicle.

When stopped in traffic leave some distance between your car and the car in front of you. If someone approaches you, honk your horn and step on the gas, leaving the situation, if possible.

If someone threatens you with a weapon, give up your vehicle immediately. DO NOT FIGHT OR ARGUE. Your life is more important than your car.

If your car breaks down, raise the hood to signal for help. If possible, remain inside your vehicle. If someone stops to assist you, have him or her call for help. DO NOT allow them inside your vehicle, and do not accept a ride from them.

STREET SENSE

Walk purposefully. Communicate the message that you are calm, confident, know where you are going, and know what is going on around you. Stand tall, and make quick, but deliberate eye contact with the people around you.

Avoid walking alone and stay away from dark streets. Avoid short cuts through deserted areas.

Try not to carry a purse, but if you must, carry it securely under your arm. NEVER wrap the purse strap around your arm or enter a tug-of-war if a thief grabs your purse. You cold be seriously injured!

Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or other tempting targets such as well-known or obviously expensive jewelry.

Avoid street solicitors trying to sell you something at a bargain price. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

BE AWARE! Stay alert and use good judgement, so you can avoid becoming an easy target. Trust your instincts, they are usually correct.

SAFETY AT HOME

Lock your doors and windows when you are home. Too often, criminals get into homes through unlocked doors and windows.

A peephole with a 180-degree viewing angle is best for you to use to verify who is on the other side of the door. NEVER open the door to someone you do not know.

Always acknowledge a caller at your door, but do not open it. Call to the person through the locked door to determine who they are and what they want. Some burglars ring the doorbell, and if there is no answer, they break in. You do not want that type of surprise company.

If an intruder confronts you inside your home attempt to remain calm. Only you will be able to determine your best course of action. Be aware that there is a potential for violence in this type of situation.

TO SCHEDULE A FREE PRESENTATION OR SECURITY SURVEY FOR YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS, CONTACT THE FORT LAUDERDALE POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME PREVENTION UNIT AT 761-5628.

Briefing Room

Criminal Investigations Division

Crime Prevention Tips Gateway