How to Avoid Violent Crimes

Avoiding Violent Crimes is something that takes awareness and common sense.  A mindset that enhances personal safety takes effort and constant vigilance, but it is not the same as acting all barney fife.

Col. Jeff Cooper had the right idea when it came to avoiding violent crimes when he established his color codes. You can gain a lot from learning to stay aware and ready to act without being on edge and paranoid.

In  the article below, you can get some great tips on how to avoid being the victim of a violent crime.

Sexual Assault

• Use initials instead of first names on mailboxes and phone listings.
• Avoid remaining alone in an apartment laundry room or parking garage.
• Never admit on the telephone or at the door that you are alone.
• It is risky to accept a ride home from someone you have just met.
• If you decide to physically resist assault, remember that your goal is to incapacitate the attacker long enough to run to safety and get help.
• If you have been a victim of sexual assault, call police immediately. Do not bathe or change clothes or you may destroy evidence.

Robbery

•  Avoid carrying valuable items or large amounts of money.
• Always think ahead. For example, when traveling at night, have your keys ready to enter the house or to start the car.
• If you are confronted by a robber, the best advice is to cooperate.
• If you resist, there is a greater chance that you may be hurt.

Bank Machines

•  When using an automatic bank teller, always be watchful of any suspicious people around you.
• The chances of being robbed at night are much greater, especially if you are alone.
• If you find someone waiting and watching outside in the area of an ATM machine, do not use it. Leave the area and report the incident to the police immediately. You could save someone else from being a victim of crime.