Victim Assistance Services has a program “Change Your Locks, Change Your Life.” This program is designed to assist victims in taking a necessary step to protect themselves from a suspect by eliminating the suspect’s easy access and power over them.

• Always lock your doors and close and secure your windows when you leave your home or retire for the evening.
• Leave an outside light on, or place a security floodlight in areas that concern you.
• Have a plan with your neighbors if you ever need them to call the police.
• If your home life is violent or dangerous due to other family members, seek help immediately.
• Consider a security system and/or a “safe room” in your home.

• Use caution when you are out alone at night in areas such as shopping plazas and parks.
• Stay in well-lit areas.
• Walk confidently, keep purses and bags close to your body, and hold them securely.
• Weigh the pros and cons of carrying any weapons. If taken from you, they could be used against you.

• Be aware of your co-workers and their actions.
• Report any suspicious or worrisome activity to supervisors.
• Know where and how to call 911 from office or factory settings.

• Always make sure that children get on and off the bus or to school in a manner that does not
  allow strangers easy access.
• Talk to children about strangers and make sure they understand that saying “NO” loudly to strangers
  is perfectly acceptable.
• Keep an information packet about your child handy in case of abduction. A recent photo, a lock of hair, correct height and weight, and a set of fingerprints will all be helpful to officials if necessary.