NCJ Number
92833
Date Published
1983
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This slide/tape presentation on steps to take when walking and driving to reduce the opportunity for personal victimization emphasizes the principles of awareness, alertness, and avoidance.
Abstract
The essence of personal security which avoids physical confrontation with an offender involves denying the criminal an attractive opportunity to commit a crime. Ths requires (1) awareness of what a criminal considers necessary to create a favorable opportunity, (2) altertness to indicators that such an opportunity exists or is being created, and (3) avoidance, which means avoiding the situations and circumstances conducive to victimization. In the case of street crime that may be committed against a pedestrian, self-protection involves avoiding isolation, reducing the time that a criminal may have to commit an offense without help arriving, and increasing the risk that a criminal will not successfully complete a crime. When walking, a person should select lighted routes, travel with a friend, and walk with confidence and purpose. Do not carry large amounts of money or wear expensive jewelry, and do not allow a stranger to manipulate you to a place of isolation. When traveling in a car, remain on well-traveled roads, do not pick up strangers, and in the case of a breakdown in an isolated area, lock the car doors with some sign of distress visible to passersby. Do not admit a stranger into the car, but ask that the police or a service attendant be called. This presentation also gives guidance for planning and coordinating the slide program, including recommendations for discussion.