What To Do If You Get Attacked: Pedestrian Safety Tips

ARCADIA, CA — Las week in the Southern California city of Azusa, a woman was sexually assaulted and her attacker attempted to kidnap her on her way home. While police are still searching for the man responsible, the Azusa Police Department released a live stream video on how to not become a victim if attacked.

The number one comment from Officers Bires and Spahr were to be focused, be alert and present while you are walking. In a time when the majority of pedestrians are looking at their mobile devices, "we've all seen funny YouTube videos of people walking into poles or parked cars," Bires said. "It's important to remain alert while walking around."

That tip, to remain focused and avoid getting cornered, assaulted or kidnapped, and several others were addressed by Azusa Police Officers Bires and Detective S. Spahr in a live Facebook conversation on the subject.

"Be careful as you are walking, try to avoid using your electronic devices," when you are focused on your electronics you are not aware of your surroundings.

"We advise people to keep their heads on a swivel," Officer Bires stated about attempted kidnapping and safety tips.

Walk with a friend, if possible. If you are carrying a bag or purse, keep it close to you.

"One of the things about personal property," officer Spahr said, "give your stuff to them and we will help you retrieve it. It's not worth your life."

Walking at night, avoid dimly lit areas, they both agreed.

"If you are walking home and you see an alley, or you could go around, it's best to take the longer way home, in a brighter area according to Officer Spahr.

"In this day and age, we are seeing an increase in violence," Officer Bires said. "If someone tries to take you, you need to fight as hard as you can."

"If they are trying to take you, bite, kick and scream," Officer Spahr said. "Make as big a scene as you can."

One thing attackers do not like, is to be looked at. Scream loud, scream out the description of the attacker, make as much noise as possible.

"Time is critical in situations, so if you are attacked call 911 first, before you go to social media," Officer Spahr said. "Give us an opportunity to get there as soon as possible."

A member of the community, Gloria Minjarez, said that yelling a description of your attacker will also throw them off guard.

"Witnesses can remember what you're shouting, so if you shout 'Blue Jacket' someone will remember that," he said, right before offering Minjarez Coffee with a Cop for that tip.

SAFETY TIPS: How Pedestrians Can Avoid Getting Attacked

• Do not use your portable electronics while walking.
• Keep your head "on a swivel," which means look all around.
• If you hear someone approaching you from behind, turn around to see what is behind or approaching you.
• Walk with a friend or family member, in a well-lit area.
• Keep purses and backpacks zipped, closed and near your body.
• In the event you are attacked, make plenty of noise and fight off your attacker.
• Remember as much as possible about the suspect and his or her vehicle as you can.
• Call 911 FIRST. Do not call a friend, family member or post on social media what happened. We need to start responding as quickly as possible to help you and search for the suspect.

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