When away from home
Anytime you have a concern, it is best to immediately notify the police at 911 for an emergency or 914-271-5177 for non-emergency calls. The police are here to help and cannot do so if you do not let them know of your concerns. If your gut feels that something is not right, do not hesitate to call the police.
While there are endless ways to protect yourself when away from home, below are just a few.
- Never leave your purse in your shopping cart, even for a minute. Thieves are very adept at stealing your wallet or the entire purse while your back is turned for “just a second.”
- When possible, park in well-lit areas.
- Lock car doors, while not in your car to prevent someone from entering and waiting for your return.
- Lock car doors while driving to prevent theft at traffic lights or other stopped conditions.
- Do not leave your garage door opener in your car if you are away and do not have a garage.
- Always securely lock the inside door from your garage to your home.
- When using a car service, check that the child safety lock is off prior to closing the car door.
- Never leave your children or pets unattended in your car, even if you plan to run into a store “for only a minute.” Thieves can steal your car, or you may be delayed and your child or pet can suffer a medical condition from the heat or cold.
- Hike or swim with a “buddy”, never alone.
- Never walk or bike ride with ear buds. At most use one ear bud, but always make sure you can hear all surrounding noises such as approaching cars, other people, or animals.
- If hiking in the woods, be aware of what wildlife inhabits the area. Check the Department of Environmental Conservation for tips on what to do if you encounter such wildlife.
- Always carry a cell phone.
- Whether hiking, boating, swimming, or visiting a place out of your routine, always tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return.
This article was written by members of the Police Advisory Committee as part of the Community Information Project.