Helpful Tips

The following tips are being offered by the Newark Police Department to help reduce the risk of becoming the victim of a personal crime.

• Act immediately if you are endangered.
• Be alert.
• Be aware of your own vulnerabilities so you can prepare a defense. Realizing that you are always a potential victim is the first step of defense!
• Be prepared to lose your possessions. Throwing what you are carrying at an attacker may give you time to run.
• Carry a whistle, personal alarm, or pepper spray if you are comfortable with them and trained in their uses.
• Have your keys out and ready before you get to your residence door. If you think someone is inside, don't go in. Go to a nearby phone and call the police.
• If a stranger approaches and asks questions, use body language as a positive tool. Make eye contact with the subject.
• If you are being followed while driving home, don't go home. Go to a populated location (police station, grocery store, etc.) and contact the police.
• Park in areas that will be well lit when you return.
• Trust your instincts, especially if you feel threatened or scared.
• When driving, particularly in unfamiliar areas, keep doors locked and always have at least 1/4 tank of gas.
• When walking, stay in well-lighted areas, plan your route in advance and don't walk close to shrubbery.