Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott declared the month of October Crime Prevention Month. The sheriff's department will provide citizens with daily tips for preventing crime. Here are the tips for Oct. 3.
- Always be alert to your surroundings and the people around you.
- If possible, travel with a friend. Otherwise, tell someone when you are leaving and where you are going.
- Walk confidently and at a steady pace. Make eye contact with people as they pass.
- Stay in well-lit areas as much as possible. Avoid bushes, doorways, and alleys where someone could hide.
- Carry only the cash, credit cards, and personal items that you need. Avoid wearing eye-catching jewelry or calling attention to your valuables.
- Carry a shoulder bag securely between your arm and your body. If you carry a purse, your personal safety may depend on not clinging to it. Although a purse snatcher’s intent is to steal the purse, the grabbing and shoving that may take place can result in injuries.
- Do not respond to conversation from strangers on the street. Keep walking.
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TIP: Most crimes are crimes of opportunity. A dangling handbag invites a purse snatcher. An unlocked window invites an intruder. If you eliminate the opportunity, you greatly reduce your chances of becoming a victim.
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- Allow police to become familiar with your facility.
- Practice good crime prevention.
- Be “law enforcement friendly”.
- Utilize local associations to keep abreast of current trends.
"I am committed to ALL citizens -- by providing as much information as possible we can help make you and our communities safer.”
Sincerely,
Leon Lott,
Richland County Sheriff
Citizens can access important information about crime prevention, free safety training and community resources at:
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