Make sure you are not an easy target for crime on the street. Carry your purse in a manner that makes it hard to get — across your chest or under your arm where more than a simple grab is needed to snatch it. Men should carry their wallets in their inside coats or side pants pocket, never in your back pants pocket where it is easy to grab. If you walk to and from work or public transit stations, particularly at night, use well-lit and populated streets. When possible, walk with friends and, if you can, vary the route you take each day or night.

Have the exact fare ready before you leave home so that there is no need to open a purse or wallet. During late night or early morning stay near the agent on duty in subways and when possible sit on the aisle seat where you will have more mobility should trouble occur.

Lock your doors and be sure to store your purse, wallet or other valuables beneath your seat — not on the seat next to you where they are easy and inviting targets for theft. Park in a well-lit area for the safety of your car and yourself and always lock your car. If you notice that the street lights are out, call 311 or your Police District’s Community Policing Office to make sure this “condition for crime” is remedied.

Always carry your keys in your hands so that you are ready to open the door. If you know you will be coming home after dark, make sure to leave some lights on.

Remember — A crime-free city requires that everyone report suspicious activity by calling 911 and report conditions that make crime possible by calling 311.