Get to know your neighbors. Keep bushes and shrubs well-trimmed near your residence (or ask your landlord or property manager to do so). Maintain adequate exterior lighting. Use strong locks and solid doors with no glass panes near the locks; re-key the locks when you move in. Secure your windows. Have your house key in hand as you approach your home. Avoid riding a residential elevator alone with a stranger. Be cautious about letting strangers “tailgate” when you enter your building’s secured lobby or vestibule. Report suspicious or potentially criminal activity.

As you approach your vehicle, have your car key in hand and put your phone away. Be aware of those around you; if at night, have someone walk you to your car. Park in a well-lit, visible area that is close to your destination. Don’t leave valuables or visible packages in your vehicle. Lock your car once inside; enable auto-lock feature if available. Avoid sitting in a parked car for extended periods, particularly if you are using your phone or are otherwise distracted.

Safety experts have studied the most effective responses to an attack affecting a crowded or public space. In such a situation, it’s safest to focus on the strategy of “run-hide-fight.” Run – Escape the situation. Hide – If escaping isn’t an option, barricade access to your space, hide, silence your devices, and stay as quiet as possible. Fight – As a last resort, and only if the above two strategies fail, aggressively defend yourself against the offender(s) creating the threatening situation.

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