Think first to stay safe when out and about

Durham is a safe place--if you think before you act.

Most crimes are crimes of opportunity. They happen when you do things like walk alone at night, leave your car unlocked or leave your doors open.

Luckily, with a little common sense, you can prevent yourself from being a crime victim. These tips have been adapted from the Durham and Duke University Police Department websites.

Personal Safety

Don’t walk alone at night, even if you’re walking a short distance, and avoid unfamiliar, dimly lit areas. Encourage your friends to do the same.
Get a ride late at night by calling Duke Van Services at (919) 684-2020.
When walking during the day, always be aware of your surroundings. Remember to walk briskly and with confidence, and avoid loiterers or people hanging out in groups. Make eye contact with people as you walk by—this makes it easier to give a witness description if an attack occurs.
Always have your keys ready when you approach your apartment or vehicle.
Stay informed. Familiarize yourself with University emergency notification procedures and pay attention to DukeALERT emergency text messages. Be familiar with where crime is happening by visiting the Durham Police station crime tracking website (http://durhamnc.gov/ich/op/DPD/pages/crimemap.aspx).
If a person confronts you and demands money or possessions, law enforcement officials suggest giving what is demanded and creating a safe distance.
If you feel uncomfortable or lost, approach a police officer or a store owner to get your bearings or directions. If someone follows you, do not drive home. Go to a well-lit place and report it.
When in doubt of your destination or the safety of a neighborhood, instead of walking take a cab - especially late at night.
Excessive drinking may lead to negative consequences, including assault, illness and driving under the influence. The legal drinking age is 21. If you see someone who is passed out or sick from alcohol, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Protecting Your Property

Always lock your residence or office when away and secure your belongings.
Do not let strangers inside your apartment. Use your peephole to see who is at the door.
Park your vehicle in busy, well-lighted areas.
Always roll up your windows and lock the car, even if it is in front of your home. Never leave your keys in the car or ignition.
Do not leave valuables such as laptop computers, cellular phones and chargers, cash, loose change, GPS systems, CDs, sports equipment, and important papers and documents in your vehicle. Do not leave packages in plain view inside your vehicle. Put them in the trunk or cover them up.
Carry your registration and insurance card with you. Don’t leave personal identification documents or credit cards in your vehicle.
Copy your license plate and vehicle identification (VIN) numbers on a card and keep them with your driver’s license. If your vehicle is stolen, police will need this information promptly.
Report crime, concerns, threats of violence, unwanted contact and suspicious activity immediately. Dial 9-1-1 to reach Duke Police or Durham Police, or (919) 684-2444 to reach Duke Police.