Crime Prevention:
Do Not Be An Easy Target For Crime
The majority of people who becomes victims of some crime, became victims because of opportunity. The criminal was provided with ample opportunity to commit a crime against them, and they took it. Many people make themselves easy targets for crime without realizing it.
Crimes of opportunity are committed everyday, in every city of the world. These crimes can range from a simple pick pocket to home invasion and homicide. To keep yourself from being an easy target for a criminal, security must always be foremost on your mind. Some simple tips to help you from being an easy target include:
- A Car Alarm: Always keep your car doors locked, and if your automobile is not equipped with an alarm system, it is highly recommended that you install one. One of the most frequent crimes is automobile burglaries and theft. Often a simple alarm will be enough to deter a would be criminal from breaking into your car; they want an easy target.
- Securing Your Home's Windows & Doors: It goes without saying that an unlocked door is an open invitation for a home invasion. It is incredible in today's world of frequent crime how many people still do not lock their doors. This is a welcome oversight for a would be criminal. A home invasion can happen to anyone at any time; there doesn't have to be any particular rhyme or reason to it. This can happen no matter if you are away or at home; at any time of the day. You can be sleeping, or in the kitchen preparing dinner. You don't have to know the perpetrator, or have any type of involvement in unsavory business. Remember these are most often crimes of opportunity and the victims are picked at random based on the ease of pulling of the crime. If you keep your doors locked and have an alarm system, the perpetrators will likely move to an easier target.
- Personal Attack: Every day thousands of people who were doing nothing more than going about their business are attacked. The purpose of the attack can range from robbery to assault and rape. Taking a few simple steps can aid in making you less of a target for this criminal element.
- First and foremost, do not carry large amounts of cash with you. Whenever possible pay for purchases with a credit or check card. If you are in a mall and pull out a wad of cash to pay for a purchase and someone with criminal intent happens to see you, you have just made yourself a target. Cash is easy and much less risky than stealing someone's credit cards.
- Avoid places such as mall parking lots, or deserted streets, especially at night.
- Keep a can of mace handy, it could save your life, and always be aware of your surroundings and of suspicious people.
- Though this advice is mostly reserved for children, it is a good idea for adults not to talk to strangers as well. If you are walking to your vehicle and a stranger stops you out of no where and tries to engage you in conversation, be very careful.
There may be no way to completely avoid being a victim of crime, but by taking some personal security measures and being vigilant, you can go a long way in reducing the risk of being a victim.
Information is for educational and informational purposes only and is not be interpreted as financial or legal advice. This does not represent a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security. Please consult your financial advisor.