Be Watchful While Walking Outdoors

• Avoid walking or jogging alone, especially at night. Stay in well-traveled areas.
• Wear clothes and shoes that allow freedom of movement.
• Be careful if someone in a car asks you for directions--be sure to keep your distance from the car.
• Have your key ready before you reach the door.
• If you think you are being followed, change directions.  If the person is still there, head for an open store, restaurant, gas station or lighted house. (Do not try to make it home.)
• Do not hitchhike, and do not pickup hitchhikers.

Bike Riding

• Be sure your children know the rules of the road and follow them.
• Be sure you know where your children will be bike riding. 
• If you or your children ride at night, be sure to wear reflective clothing and use a light.
• Trail bikes and mountain biking have become very popular. Go mountain biking with friends and let another person know where you will be.
• Do not ride a trail bike alone -- you could be without help if you sustain a fall.
• Mountain bikes are also special targets for thieves, be extra sure to lock your mountain bike.
• If you ride a bike, always lock it up--even if you step inside a store or your house for "just a moment."
• If you carry a pack or water bottle on your bike, take them with you when you stop.

When Traveling on Vacation

• Be sure to alert a neighbor that you will be gone and ask them to watch your house. Also, have them gather your mail each day.
• If you will be gone for an extended length of time, be sure your neighbor or a lawn service cuts your grass. This will give your home a "lived-in" look.
• Re-set your light timers. As daylight lengthens, you'll need to set the timers later in the evening. Also, buy two timers so you can alternate the lights.
• If you rent a car, be sure to keep maps, luggage and other items that indicate you are a "tourist" out of sight. Thieves tend to look for out-of-towners as they can be easier marks.
• In a hotel, do not let strangers in your room. If someone claims to be from the hotel, call the front desk first to check on their identity.
• Always keep your room locked--even if you only step out for ice.
• When traveling, check with the front desk about your destination and be sure you know where you are going. Avoid areas in the city that could be dangerous.
• Do not flash money, expensive cameras or jewelry.