Personal safety can be a real concern for all of us. If we lived in a perfect world we would not have to worry about ever being attacked ,robbed ,or a victim of a crime.But unfortunately this is not the case. However, there are things we can do to take precautions and preventative measures.

At home

• Make sure you have sturdy metal or solid wood doors at all entries into your home and that sliding glass and similar doors are properly secured.
• Trim the shrubbery around your doors and windows so criminals don't have a place to hide.
• Make sure your home is secure when you are traveling: all deadbolts are locked, lights are on timers, newspapers stopped, and mail held at the post office or collected by a trusted neighbor who has your travel schedule.
• One of the most effective deterrents against burglars is a barking dog ! 
• If you see signs of a break-in at your home like a smashed window or open door, don't go in. Go to a neighbor and call the police.

Out and about

• Always lock car doors and take the keys when you leave your car, even if you'll be gone "just for a minute."
• If you ever notice someone following you when you're driving, head for the nearest busy, brightly lighted area. Write down the license number and make and model of the car. Call 911.
• Don't leave valuables in view in the car. Leave them in the trunk or, better yet, take them home immediately. 
• When you walk down the street or through the parking garage, walk alertly and assertively. Don't weigh yourself down with too many parcels. Take more than one trip to the car if necessary.
• If you carry a purse, hold it close to your body; if a wallet, keep it in a front pocket.
•  If you regularly go running or bicycling, try to vary your route and time. Stick to well-lit roads with pavements. Keep to main paths and open spaces where you can see and be seen by other people - avoid wooded areas. If you wear a I-pod or headphones, remember you can't hear traffic, or somebody approaching behind you.

Women's safety

• One of the most effective tools you can carry is a keychain whistle!
• The best weapon you have is your gut feeling. No one can take this weapon from you and it is a very powerful weapon. Listen to it.  Do not let anyone else tell you that you are "just being paranoid" or  being silly."  It could be the difference between life and death or serious injury.  
• Think about the various situations that may confront you and rehearse the "what if" response over and over in your mind.  The idea here is that should such situations occur, you already have in your mind what you will do and, therefore, you do it!  This may sound like one of those "easier said than done" things, but it will at least put into your mind a reaction, one you would not have if not for the plan.