1. Let your roomates/family know your whereabouts and plans at all times. Lone rangers do not last long in the city. Put up a dry-erase board in your house and let people know where you are and when you’ll be home. And give yourself some extra time so that people don’t panic if you’re late, and call home if that lateness will be more than 30 minutes.

2. Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Neighborhoods can change by the block, meaning one can get caught in a real bad position real fast and not even realize it. Pay attention and do not go into unfamiliar regions without someone from the community you know.

3. Walk purposefully and with confidence. Even if you are nervous, do not act nervous. People tend not to approach those who look like they know what they are doing, and where they are doing it.

4. Dress modestly. This is not to excuse the boorish behavior of some towards those who dress immodestly. It is simply to avoid such behavior, if and whenever possible.

5. Keep valuables and money in a living area strictly off limits to visitors.

6. Don’t tempt them to sin by showing them all your stuff. They may not think about how stealing will damage their relationships with you until it is too late.

7. Lock your car doors and make sure valuables are not visible (i.e. Ipods, Cd’s, Cell phones, nice jackets, etc.)

8. As women, do not walk or run (even for exercise) alone.

9. Have someone watch you get in/out of your car after dark if someone is available to do so.

10. Call the police if you see anything suspicious or potentially dangerous (drug activity, prositution, fights, loitering, etc.)