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Personal Safety
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What is personal safety?
It's taking steps to protect yourself from crimes. Personal safety involves:
1 Avoiding Crime: Without a doubt, prevention is your best protection against crime.
2 Knowing what to do if you're a victim: By knowing how to react you can:
3 Help avoid injury
4 Cooperate in the prosecution of the criminal
You can increase your personal safety. Many crimes can be prevented if you:
1 Trust your instincts. If you suspect something is wrong, or if a situation seems dangerous, you may be right! Don't dismiss suspicious people, cars or situations. Report them immediately.
2 Avoid dangerous situations. Don't invite trouble. Use your best judgment about where you go and what you do.
3 Work with law enforcement officials. People working together can prevent and solve many crimes.
Should I carry a weapon?
It's best not to, unless you're thoroughly trained in using it. Weapons may be easily turned against you if you're not prepared. If you decide to carry a weapon, check with the sheriff's department for information regarding state laws and applying for a Conceal and Carry License. Carrying a whistle or noisemaker can bring attention to your situation and pepper spray, if used properly, can be a strong deterrent to an attacker, allowing you to escape.
Should I learn self-defense?
Learning to defend yourself is a good idea. But don't overestimate your abilities. It may take years before you can use some techniques effectively.
Responding to an attack
1 Evaluate the Situation: Look around. Are there sources of help available? What state of mind is your attacker in?
2 Stay Alert: Listen and observe carefully so you can make the best decision now and provide important evidence later. Remember the time, person's appearance (height, weight, clothing, hair, scars), the vehicle color, make and license number. Write this down as soon as possible so not to forget.
3 Remember Your Goals are Escape and Survival: Escaping and surviving an attack are the most important considerations. Keep them in mind as you act and react. Only you can evaluate a situation and decide what is best.
4 If the Attacker Wants Your Valuables, Give Them Up: Valuables can be replaced, you can't.
5 If You are Raped: Contact the police and get medical attention immediately. Preserve evidence--don't shower, douche, or change clothes!
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Harlan Police Department, 218 Main Street, Harlan, KY 40831
Phone: (606) 573-1121 Fax: 573-3799 E-mail: harlanpd@harlanonline.net
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