Good street sense involves making an effort to stay away from dark, isolated places (such as alleys and abandoned buildings), and walking with a companion whenever possible, especially at night.

Protect Yourself 
by Having a 
"Safety Plan"

Walking alone, especially at night,
can result in situations that threaten
your safety and/or result in the loss
of your money or other valuables.
Protecting yourself against crime
does not have to involve expensive
devices and defensive weapons.
Generally, all it takes to prevent a
crime is just good, common "street
sense" and a functional personal
safety plan.

Now, with earlier sunsets and the onset of the holidays, it is an ideal time to put into place a personal safety plan to protect yourself and your property. If you feel you need assistance in creating a personal safety plan, or if you want to improve your existing plan, the Alhambra Police Department can help you--they take community safety very seriously. You can reach the Department's Crime Prevention Office at (626) 570-5177. 

Following are a few tips the Alhambra Police Department suggests you follow to maintain your safety when you are out and about:

• First, plan your outing and the route you will travel. Stick to well-lighted streets. Make an effort to stay away from dark, isolated places such as alleys and abandoned buildings. It is best to travel where there are open businesses, well-traveled roads, and people around. There IS safety in numbers!
• Carry only the cash and credit cards you will need for your trip. Purses and backpacks are good targets for purse-snatchers, because most people keep all their cash, credit cards, identification, and keys inside.
• Do your best to keep your keys, cash, I.D., and credit cards separate from your purse or backpack. Carry these items in a coat or pants pocket, or consider using a money belt. If your purse or backpack is snatched from you, all the thief will get is makeup, hairbrush, and some loose change at the bottom.
• Something else to consider if your purse is taken with identification and keys inside: the purse-snatcher now has your address and keys to your home and/or car!
• Project a calm and confident demeanor by the way you walk. Stand tall, walk purposefully, and make eye contact with people around you. Avoiding eye contact can be  perceived by a potential attacker as a sign of weakness or submission.
• Walk with a companion whenever possible, especially at night. Be alert to your surrounding and the people around you. Don't allow someone into your "personal space." Don't allow yourself to be "surprised." Remember, in order for someone to attack you, they have to be near you. Frequently scan the environment with your eyes. If you become suspicious of someone, keep your distance. Don't overload yourself with packages, and don't wear shoes or clothing that restricts your movements.
• If you think someone is following you, abruptly switch directions and walk toward an open store, restaurant or lighted home. If you are really scared, try to remain calm, and SCREAM for help.
• If confronted, don't fight or argue with the street robber or purse-snatcher who is only after your property, especially if they have a weapon. No amount of money, credit cards, purse or wallet is worth risking your physical well-being. Let them take the property they want; after all, property is replaceable. Getting your health back after an injury involves a lot more pain, suffering, time...and money.
• If you become a victim of a street robbery or purse-snatcher, report the crime to the police as soon as is safely possible. The police are concerned for your safety and well-being, and can assist you during such a traumatic event.
• It is particularly important to remain alert to your surroundings when leaving a bank or while you are transacting any business at an ATM.