SACRAMENTO POLICE DEPARTMENT News Release
		Release #11-22a November 22, 2000 For Immediate Release
						Media Office 916-264-5224  Lt.  Sam Somer                 Staff:  Ann Nichols  Internet: www.sacpd.org

The Sacramento Police Department is putting out its yearly crime prevention tips.  The Department hopes that everyone has a safe and happy holiday.

 
Being alert and aware of your surroundings can greatly reduce the risk of becoming a victim. Here are some helpful reminders of how to stay safe.

1.  Don’t take on the appearance of a victim.  Street criminals tend to prey on people who look vulnerable. Keep your head up, your shoulders back, and make direct, but brief, eye contact with those whom you encounter.

2.  Park in well-lit areas.  Try parking near the store entrance and in well traveled areas.        Look to see if your parking location will be lit when you return from shopping. Some stores may provide a security escort, or a courtesy clerk to walk you to your vehicle if you are alone.

3.  If you must walk alone to your car, be alert.  Is someone hiding in, under or around your car? KEEP YOUR KEYS READY IN YOUR HAND. Do not wait until you get to your car to search through your bag or pocket for your car keys.

4.  Use the buddy system.   Shop with a friend.  Most personal attacks and robberies will happen when you are alone and vulnerable.

5.  Carry very little cash.  Take only the credit cards, checks or cash you plan on using.  Carry your I.D., credit cards and checks in the inner pockets of your clothing.  Remember, if you are confronted by a robber for your purse or wallet it’s a property crime. Do not resist and give up your property.  Keep yourself safe!

6.  Don’t Leave packages, wrapped gifts or shopping bags in plain view.  Whenever possible secure your belongings out of view.  Lock personal items in your trunk.  Remove all cellular phones and cassette/CD players from view.
7.  Keep cell phones and pagers covered.   Try not to leave them where a pickpocket can  easily access.  Cell phones and pagers clipped onto the edges of purses and backpacks        make for easy targets.

8.  Be alert when you use ATM’s.  Be aware of the people around you and try to limit your   transactions to well-lit areas.  If you need to get cash try using an ATM located in a grocery store or a location well lit, and in public view.
 
9.  Most Important:  Report All crimes to the local police department immediately.  All telephone booths throughout the State will access 9-1-1 free of charge. Prompt reporting of criminal activity will make an arrest more likely and a greater chance of recovering your property. If you see any suspicious activity call the Sacramento Police Department on the Non-Emergency number  (916) 264-5471.  Crimes in progress should be reported to 911.

HOME SAFETY TIPS

1.  Remember to make your home secure and appear lived in.  Make it difficult for the       burglar.  Take advantage of your good neighbors and watch out for each other.

2.  Don’t leave doors and windows open.   Always close your garage door and any other      windows or doors you might have opened. It only takes a thief a matter of seconds to steal  something when no one is around.

3.  Don’t advertise your new gifts.  Crush all containers and boxes before throwing them away.  Uncrushed boxes in the trash may tell burglars that you have a new TV, stereo or camera.