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Purse snatching is a crime of opportunity. You can eliminate that opportunity.
Every female carrying a purse is a potential target. Senior citizens are
especially susceptible to these criminals since they may not readily able
to defend themselves and pursue their assailants.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Purse snatching is a crime that can be easily prevented when you take
away the opportunity from the thief. Most purse snatchers aer juveniles
under the age of 18, who are waiting for the next opportunity. When you
hide the "prize" you protect yourself.
Suppose you are going shopping and waiting for a bus. You are by yourself
and your purse is exposed and in open view. You already made two mistakes
- you are alone and your purse is valnerable. Frankly, your personal safey
might depend on NOT clinging to that purse, even though it seems a normal
way to protect the contents. Grabbing and shoving that may take place
can result in being injured. There are ways to protect yourself, however.
SHOP WITH A FRIEND, TRAVEL TOGETHER
The first precaution you can take is to go shopping with a friend - man
or woman. You're safer when in the company of someone else. If you must
be out at night alone, stay in well-lighted areas. Walk close to street
lights, staying well away from dark corners, alleys and buildings entrances.
HOW TO OUTSMART THE PURSE SNATCHER
When carrying a purse, women should have only 3 or 4 one dollar bills
placed inside. Credit cards, currency, driver's license, keys and jewelry
should be carried in a coat or sweater pocket, or concealed on your person
to reduce the opportunity of large losses. If you carry a purse, don't
wrap the strap around your shoulder, neck or wrist. If your purse is grabbed,
a strong strap will not yield easily and you may be injured. some purse
snatch victims have been thrown down and have received concussions and
broken bones. Never carry anything more valuable than what you can afford
to lose. Always leave all unnecessary credit cards at home. When you shop
and carry a purse, place it in your shopping bag. Never leave your purse
on a store counter or in a grocery shopping cart - even for a moment.
DON'T CARRY WEAPONS THAT CAN BE USED AGAINST YOU!
You should carry a police whistle and a small flashlight on your key
chain where they're readily available. Make a habit to carry your key
chain in a pocket - NOT in your purse. And you should never put your name
and address on your house keys or car keys. This is simply a way of telling
a thief who you are and where you live!
CALL THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY
Most victims are attacked from behind. They don't get a good look at
the attacker. And when a juvenile gets away with it once, he'll try it
again. If attacked, call the police immediately. Try to remember all the
details - help the police help you!
This information courtesy of www.safetycentral.com
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