We’ve all been there.  It’s been a long day.  We’re tired, it’s Friday night.  We just want to get home and get our weekend started or bury ourselves in Binge TV watching or movies.  It’s tempting to ignore the things we know can do to help keep ourselves safe.  There’s no one thing that will keep us completely safe at all times but there are a few things we can do to help keep ourselves and our things safer.  Below are some tips for all of us that move through the neighborhood at different times of the day and night.  Basically, stay alert and do what you can to protect your bikes, and your personal belongings as best you can.

General Tips for Safety:

  1. Be aware! Recognize your vulnerability.
  2. Report all suspicious persons, vehicles and activities to either 911 or the non-emergency number:  314-231-1212
  3. Use the “buddy system” and watch out for your neighbor.
  4. Report lights that are out and any hazardous conditions immediately to the Neighborhood Stabilization Team/Citizens Service Bureau: 314-622-4800
  5. If you witness a crime call 911.

When you are walking the neighborhood and business district:

  1. Avoid traveling alone at night.
  2. Confine walking to well-lit, regular traveled walks and pathways. Avoid shortcuts and keep away from shrubbery, bushes, alleyways, or any other areas that create vulnerability
  3. Avoid the athletic fields and tennis courts after dark.
  4. Do not accept rides from casual acquaintances.
  5. When walking to your vehicle or residence, have your keys ready in hand.
  6. When being dropped off by taxi or private vehicle, ask the driver to wait until you get inside.
  7. When getting out of a car, take a look around to make sure that you are not being followed.
  8. If you think you are being followed, cross the street and, if necessary, keep crossing back and forth. If you are pursued, call 911 and enter the nearest safe building you can and alert any security that may be present.

When you are travelling by bicycle in the neighborhood or business district:

  1. Invest in a good U-Bar bicycle lock.
  2. Always lock your bicycle. Bicycles should be locked around the frames to an object such as a telephone pole, sign or lamppost, bicycle rack, etc.
  3. Whenever possible, keep your bicycle in your garage locked up as well or in your basement.
  4. If you must leave your bicycle outside, choose a well-lit, heavily traveled location.
  5. Register your bicycle with the Saint Louis Police Department. Bike registration is free and is an excellent way to further secure your property against theft.