Briefing Room

Criminal Investigations Division

Crime Prevention Tips Gateway

WOMEN AND SAFETY

You can help protect yourself from violent crime by taking self-protection measures that will reduce your risk.

• STAY OUT OF ISOLATED AREAS
  • Avoid little-used stairwells and parking lots
  • Don't get on an empty elevator with strangers

• TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS
  • If you sense trouble, get away as soon as possible

• SHOW CONFIDENCE
  • Walk at a steady pace, keep your head up
  • Avoid carrying lots of packages…It can make you look defenseless

• WHEN USING PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
  • Wait at busy, well-lit stops
  • Sit close to the driver or conductor
  • Speak loudly or yell if you feel threatened

• USE CAUTION ON DATES
  • Beware of alcohol and drugs, they affect judgement. Be aware of how much your date uses them, too
  • Don't leave your drink unattended
  • Don't drink anything you didn't get, open or pour yourself
  • Provide your own transportation
  • Avoid secluded places

• WHEN DRIVING
  • Park in a well-lit spot close to your destination
  • When returning to your vehicle, have keys ready
  • Check the backseat of your car before entering
  • Keep doors locked and windows up
  • Do not drive with your purse laying on the seat of the car
  • Don't pick up hitchhikers
  • Keep your car in good repair
  • Be sure you have enough fuel for your trip
  • Carry a cell phone for emergencies

• BE SAFE AT HOME
  • Keep doors and windows locked
  • Use deadbolt locks on outside entrances
  • Never hide keys outside your home
  • Keep at least one inside light on when you're away
  • Keep outside entrances well-lit
  • Install a peephole in your front door and use it
  • Ask for identification of any repair or delivery person before opening your door…If you are not expecting anyone, call the company to verify before opening the door
  • Never let a stranger in your home, and never let him or her know if you are alone. If someone wants to use your phone, offer to make the call for them
  • If you think someone is in your home, don't go in! Go to a nearby phone and call the police

• WHEN WALKING/EXERCISING
  • Plan the safest rout before you leave
  • Don't wear headphones
  • Vary your jogging or biking route
  • Travel with a companion, if possible
  • Stand back from car when giving a driver directions
  • If someone follows you, change course and head toward other people
  • Don't carry a purse. This makes you a target for attack.
  • Always pay attention to your surroundings

• WHEN RESPONDING TO AN ATTACK
  • Size up the situation
  • You may have several options. You may: scream for help, run away, use a whistle, as a last resort, offer resistance
  • · Remember your safety is what's important. Do whatever you think is best
  • · Whatever you choose to do, do it quickly!

• IF YOU'VE BEEN ATTACKED OR RAPED
  • Go to a safe place
  • Go to the hospital. Don't shower, brush your teeth, douche or change your clothes, since any of these may destroy medical evidence
  • Call the police. If you are 18 years or older, it is your choice whether or not to prosecute a rape. But remember prosecuting rape is an important part of ending violence against women.
  • Remember that an attack is never your fault. Never feel guilty about how you did or did not respond

Take time out…Protect Yourself

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT THE FORT LAUDERDALE POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME PREVENTION UNIT AT 761-5628

Briefing Room

Criminal Investigations Division

Crime Prevention Tips Gateway