Missouri State Highway Patrol — Public Information and Education Division
Overview
Every 15 minutes in Missouri, a murder, rape, robbery, or assault occurs. Many of these crimes are against women. Educating yourself and taking steps to avoid or minimize danger could help prevent becoming a victim.
Remember the Four A's: Aware of your surroundings, Alert of your circumstances, Avoid potentially dangerous situations, Action — be proactive about your safety.
In Your Home
Even in the comfort of your own home, you may find yourself vulnerable to burglary, robbery, and sexual attack. There are steps you can take to make your home a safe place, day or night.
• Be aware of strangers in your neighborhood or people who come to the door requesting help.
• Have your home phone listed in your last name and first initial only.
• Keep your home well-lit, especially entrances and exits.
• Use an answering machine or voicemail to screen calls.
• Notify your home security system provider when you are away.
• Use timers on your lights to give the appearance that someone is home.
On the Street
The best rule a woman can follow is to never walk alone at night. If you must be out alone, be alert for anyone who might be driving toward you. Walk with confidence, with your head up, and look around.
• Vary the route and time of your walk.
• If confronted, scream or yell. Attract attention if possible.
• Be aware of a stranger in a vehicle offering to give you a ride.
• Stay away from areas that are not well-lit.
In Your Car
• Lock your doors and keep windows rolled up.
• Check the back seat of your car before entering.
• Avoid the curb lane; keep doors locked.
• Do not get out of your car in an emergency stop. Drive to the closest open business or station.
• Do not pick up hitchhikers.
• If your car breaks down, stay inside. Tie a white cloth to the antenna or place it where visible.
Safety Do's
• Walk with a companion whenever possible.
• Walk in the middle of the sidewalk or near the curb.
• Carry a whistle, spray, or other legal protection device.
• Check the rear seat of your car before you get behind the wheel.
• Carry a cellular phone.
Safety Don'ts
• Don't walk alone after dark.
• Don't walk alone in deserted areas.
• Don't pick up hitchhikers.
• Don't leave your house key under the door mat.
• Don't let strangers in your home.
• Don't have your license plate personalized with your first name only.
Additional Safety Tips
• Never put your home address and phone number on your luggage tags.
• Be careful when allowing others to use your cell phone.
• Take care of banking during daylight hours. If you must use an ATM at night, park in a well-lit area.
• When staying in a hotel, never give your room number to a stranger.
Emergency Information
Emergency Assistance: 1-800-525-5555 or cellular *55
Road Conditions: 1-888-275-6636
Sex Offender Registry Hotline: 1-888-SOR-MSHP (1-888-767-6747)
Contact
Public Information and Education Division
Missouri State Highway Patrol
1510 East Elm Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101
(573) 751-3313
Website: www.statepatrol.dps.mo.gov
Email: mshppied@mshp.dps.mo.gov