Crime Prevention Tips - Protect Yourself While Traveling

These safety tips are in response to a kidnapping that occurred March 24th around 1:00 pm. Location was in the area of the intersection of Leon Street and Broad Street. Suspect jumped into the victim's car with a weapon and ordered the victim to drive. A short time later, the suspect took some money from the victim and exited the vehicle. Suspect: B/M, 25-27 yrs old, 5'10" to 6'1", 185 to 195 lbs.

1. In your car keep your doors locked and the windows rolled up in traffic, especially at stoplights and stop signs.

2. As you approach an intersection, observe not only the vehicle traffic, but also the foot traffic. Watch for persons hanging around the intersection or that may approach your vehicle while you are stopped.

3. Leave room between you and the vehicle in front of you so that if someone approaches your vehicle you would have room to pull around the vehicle and drive away.

4. Get and Keep a cellular phone in your vehicle.

5. If someone does attempt to enter your vehicle, blowing the horn will attract attention to you and possible scare the attacker away. If you have a vehicle alarm with a panic button, use it.

6. Be aware of your surroundings and location. Know the location of the police and fire headquaters and substations.

7. If you are being followed, drive to the nearest police or fire station and blow your horn. This will also bring attention to you. DON'T GO HOME .

8. In the event of car trouble, tie a handkerchief to the door handle or antenna, set the emergency flashers, get into your vehicle, lock the doors and wait for the police. If someone stops to offer help, stay in your locked vehicle and ask the person to call the police.

9. Keep valuables out of sight possible in the trunk, under the seat or in the glove box.

10. Report any incident to the police department as soon as possible.