Safety tips to avoid dangerous situations

Recent incidents that have occurred near or on HCC property reminds us that we need to be diligent about our safety. The safety tips below will help you avoid dangerous situations outside your home.

General:

• Keep eyes and ears open and hands free. It is important to be alert to whom and what is around you.

• If you see or sense problems around you, just change your route and prepare to run or defend yourself.

• Do not act or look like an easy target – look confident.

• Looking straight into the face of potential attackers could scare them off because they fear you will be able to identify them. Most “fights” are won before they start, and aggressors will back down if you maintain eye contact and are not intimidated by them.

Motor vehicles:

• Danger areas are stepping out of, walking to and getting in your car either at home or in isolated areas.

• Always approach your vehicle with the keys ready.

• Always check your car before entering.

• Once inside, windows should be up and doors locked.

• Never leave your car unlocked, even for the few minutes it may take you to return a video, buy milk and so forth. Attackers have been known to lie in wait for such an opportunity.