Personal safety is a concern for all of us. A lot can be achieved by just using good common sense. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, and do not place yourself in situations which might jeopardize your safety. Here are some tips to keep yourself safe at home, work and on the street:

At Home

• Don’t unlock your door to strangers. Speak through the closed door.
• Install quality locks and use them at all times when you are home or away.
• Avoid using chain locks. They present little deterrent to an aggressive person.
• Install a peep-hole in your door.
• Do not hide keys outside. Leave them with a trusted neighbour.
• Never open the door to strangers. Verify identification of visitors, sales and service people.
• Do not allow a stranger to enter your home to use the phone; offer to make the call for them.

On the Street

• Plan your route and avoid short cuts through parks, vacant lots or unlit areas.
• Know where police stations or after hour stores are located.
• Don’t carry large sums of money or unnecessary valuables. Use cash alternatives such as debit cards.
• Don’t leave purses unattended in shopping carts or on store counters.
• If someone grabs your purse, do not resist.
• When possible only use a bank machine in visible, active areas.
• Be aware of your surroundings and always make sure no one has the opportunity to see you entering your PIN.
• Always lock your car after entering and when leaving it.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
• When parking, keep in mind what the environment will be like when you return. Will if be dark? If so, park in a well-lit area.

In the Workplace

• Avoid isolated stairwells
• If working after hours, keep doors locked.

The basic rule – Don’t let politeness and your desire to be a "good neighbour" take precedence over your own safety.

Presentations regarding Personal Security/Home Safety are available upon request.  Please contact Cst. Jeannie Rankin at 490-5243 or Cst. Don Jenkins at 490-6977 for more information.