Stay safe this summer
Most people live their day-to-day lives unaffected by crime so it’s worthwhile knowing how to keep it that way. Follow our stay safe tips to avoid being the victim of crime this summer:
Be streetwise
You can’t tell when or where a crime could happen but if you follow our tips below you will reduce the risks:
- Use your instinct – if you feel unsafe make an excuse and leave
- Don’t go off with anyone you don’t know – arrange to meet them in a busy place or with friends
- Don’t walk alone at night, stick with your mates, catch a bus or get your parents or a friend to give you a lift
- If you do have to be alone, stick to well lit busy places and avoid dark alleyways or parks and avoid listening to music on your headphones – as you won’t be as aware of what’s happening around you
- If a situation you are in becomes confrontational, don’t be afraid to walk away
- Make sure you can make a phone call if you need too – remember you can call 999 from a mobile or payphone for free
If you are the victim of a crime, you should call 999 immediately. To help the police catch your attacker, try to remember, as much as you can – like what they were wearing especially things like the colour or make of their trainers, hats or anything unusual about them.
For your eyes only
- Don’t carry your valuables so openly, avoid wearing your mobile phone/IPod round your neck or clipped to your clothes
- If you have a pay as you go phone, make sure it’s registered so if it’s stolen you can cancel the phone
If an item is stolen, the following tips can help the police trace the real owners:
- Record the serial numbers of your phone or equipment in a safe place at home
- Mark your phone/Ipod or Nintendo with identifiable marks like your name or write your postcode on them with an ultra violet pen
Remember your possessions can be replaced but you can’t – so if you’re mugged, hand over your goods and the crime will be over quicker and safer than if you put up a fight.
To report a non-urgent crime call 01622 690690 and you can also visit www.kent.police.uk for more safety tips.
Cut down on Bogus 999 calls
Kent police deal with 674 emergency 999 calls everyday – if you have a non emergency please call use the 01622 690690 number!
