How to Enhance Personal Safety

For a crime to be committed against a person, there must be three basic elements present. Those elements, which form the "Victimization Triangle"--opportunity, victim and perpetrator--are the makings of a crime against another. If opportunity is removed from the triangle, no crime can be committed. There are things that can be done each day to safeguard yourself from becoming a victim of crime while in the community. Should you employ simple personal habit changes, your personal risk will be reduced dramatically.

Instructions

• 1

  Be aware of your surroundings. This is the most important step a person can take to enhance personal safety. Walking erect with shoulders back and head up sends a body language signal to all that this person is confident and alert. When walking with this air of confidence, scan the area--perhaps even making eye contact with passersby. Eye contact tends to send its own message of self confidence to others, as well as sending a clear message that all of the people around have been seen. Criminals do not want to be identified, especially by someone they are attempting to exert power and control over.

• 2

  Listen. When walking or jogging for fitness many people use an electronic musical device that requires ear buds or head phones. This can prove to be very unsafe, as the user can generally not hear approaching traffic or footsteps of an approaching person. Utilize one ear bud only, which allows you to enjoy music, but also be alert to those who may be approaching.

• 3

  Purchase a personal alarm for use in any situation where you may feel that your safety is compromised. A personal alarm is a small speaker box that is lightweight and can be clipped to your purse, back pack or belt. A personal alarm should cost no more than $15 and should emit between 120 and 130 decibels when activated. These alarms, when activated, draw attention to you and the situation you are in, deter a perpetrator from becoming more aggressive, getting closer or even committing a crime against you. A personal alarm cannot be taken away from you and used against you as a weapon could, and it also gives you some control over the situation.

• 4

  Step away from a stranger when in close proximity, watch his hands and eyes for clues of his intentions and be firm with him if he advances. Persons who make another feel uncomfortable should not be allowed to continue to do so. Think about what you would say to someone who made you feel uncomfortable; be firm but polite. Should the aggressor continue to advance, a firmer directive can be given to the aggressor or a personal alarm may be used.