SEVEN STREET TIPS

1. Listen to your gut.  People often sense potential danger before they are able to pinpoint exactly why.  If you feel uncomfortable in your surroundings, find other people (e.g., duck into a store or a building with a doorman; walk in the street where you make yourself visible; walk home on a different street).

2. If you think you’re being followed, go into a store or a building with a doorman and call 911.  And/or, walk in the street.  Avoid walking under scaffolding at night.

3. Be aware of your surroundings:

* Don’t listen to your IPOD

* Know what street you’re on and what cross-streets you’re between

* Know where, even if only approximately, you are in the Park

4. Don’t walk alone; safety in numbers.

5. Don’t flash expensive toys like cell phones and don’t flash cash.

6. If approached:

* Keep walking (stopping is going to allow yourself to be backed up against a wall or surrounded/hidden; and walking buys time)

* Give money, phone, etc. without a fight

* Toss these things and run when the perp bends down to pick it up

7. Stay away from a car or van that approaches you with someone inside asking for help (directions, for example).  Smart as you may be, no adult really needs your help.  Better to be unhelpful than forced into the vehicle.