People
Common Questions

• DO check your fences and gates are in good condition.
• DO keep your shed and garage locked.
• DO NOT leave ladders outside.
• DO check that doors are solid construction.
• DO replace ordinary glass door panels with laminated glass.
• DO fit and use a door chain.
• DO fit and use a five lever mortice deadlock.
• DO fit and use key operated locks on even the smallest opening window.
• DO glue in louvre window slats or replace with fixed window pane.
• DO use time switches on lights indoors.
• DO change the locks when you move in to a new house or flat.
• DO NOT leave valuables in sight.
• DO NOT hide a spare key anywhere outside.
• DO NOT advertise your absence when on holiday, at work or shopping.

• Planting a thorny hedge along your boundary.
• Fitting a high gate to side passages.
• Means of escape in case of fire.
• Fitting hinge bolts, viewers and letterbox cages to front doors.
• Getting advice on securing patio doors.
• Marking your post code on your property.
• Taking pictures of valuables.
• Checking you are fully insured.
• Joining Neighbourhood Watch.
• Getting crime prevention advice from local police.

• DO NOT go in or call out the intruder could still be inside.
• DO go to a neighbours to call the police.

• Don't fight back - hand keys over and stay safe.
• If deliberately bumped drive to nearest police station or busy place.
• Only open the window a little if you need to speak to someone outside

• Look and listen when at traffic lights.
• Look away if someone tries to attract your attention.
• Hit their hand or fingers if someone tries to force windows open.
• Use horn and hazard lights if forced to stop by another car.
• Drive to police station or somewhere crowded if you are being followed.
• Note model, colour, registration of car and description of driver.

• DO have an action plan be observant and think in advance how to react.
• DO always drive with the doors locked and windows closed.
• DO NOT leave keys in the ignition when away from the car.
• DO park in well lit unobscured area, preferably observed by cctv.
• DO NOT leave possessions on display.
• DO place all evidence of gender in the boot before leaving car.
• DO have your car keys ready, but not obvious, when returning to your car.
• DO keep the car serviced to reduce risk of breakdown.
• DO take extra care in slow traffic and when stationary at lights or junctions

• Having clear plastic film fitted inside of side windows.
• Fitting a tracking system to aid recovery and prosecution.

• DO appear calm.
• DO avoid prolonged eye contact.
• DO be aware of the tone of your voice.
• DO NOT sound patronising.
• DO speak slowly and softly.
• DO avoid long sentences.
• DO keep your distance.
• DO NOT touch anyone threatening you.
• DO be conscious of your posture, try to appear relaxed.
• DO dissuade others escalating a situation by words or actions.

• try to change the subject.

• the problem may be poor communication.

• try a compromise.

• Take special care if the aggressor appears under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or appears mentally unstable they may behave in an unpredictable way.

• Withdraw to a safe area.
• Summon help.
• Warn others.
• Call for police assistance, if possible without giving further alarm.

• DO stay in the company of friends.
• DO look out for "table surfers" who want to distract you and steal from your bag.
• DO loop your bag under a chair leg or use the bag clip if provided.
• DO carry only enough cash for the evening.
• DO use a cab company you know, and pre-book if possible.
• DO NOT leave bags or briefcases unattended or out of site.
• DO NOT accept drinks from strangers unless you can see what's gone into the glass.
• DO NOT leave drinks unattended.
• DO NOT get in a taxi that stops you in the street.
• DO NOT ask strangers to take you to a taxi office.
• DO NOT reveal personal details to the taxi driver.

• Stay in control and don't get careless if you're full of good cheer. The same goes if you've had an argument and left early.
• Be aware of your surroundings; stay in well lit places, and with other people.
• Keep your possessions out of sight; remember this if you have to draw cash from an ATM, and guard your PIN, card and cash.
• Take as few credit cards with you as possible (less to get stolen).
• Leave your Drivers Licence at home, and anything else with your address on it, so that a thief will not be able to use the keys to get into your home.
• Enable the PIN lock on your mobile so it cannot be used if stolen.
• The crowds at clubs and bars, spilling out from theatres and cinemas, and at music venues, are happy hunting grounds for thieves. Look out for pickpockets if you are approached by beggars.