Tips for Home, Parking Lots and Exercising Outdoors

Theft is often a crime of opportunity. Remove the opportunity, prevent theft. Here are some simple things you can do to avoid becoming a victim of theft.

In parking lots and driveways:

• Always lock your doors and roll up your windows.
• Never leave valuable items in your vehicle.
• Use your trunk. Store packages in the trunk of your vehicle while shopping.
• Remove your telephone, iPod, purse, briefcase, backpack, cash and even loose change each time you leave your vehicle.
• Park in well lit areas at night.
• Park your car in the driveway rather than the street.
• Consider a car alarm for added protection
• Call 911 if you see any suspicious activity.
• Encourage family, friends and co-workers to keep valuables out of their vehicles while at home, at work at the YMCA or while running errands.

At the YMCA:

• Always use a locker and bring your own lock.
• Stowe small valuables like wallets, watches, jewelry and keys in a small hallway locker.
• Never leave keys or valuables in cubbies in the fitness area or elsewhere.
• Report any suspicious behavior to the Member Service Desk.

Running or walking outside is great exercise but keep the following things in mind
if you run or walk outside:

• Share your route with a family member or friend.
• If possible, carry a cell phone.
• Wear an ID tag or write your name and phone number inside of your shoe.
• Don’t wear jewelry or carry cash.
• Wear reflective material.
• Stay alert and listen to your surroundings.
• Avoid dimly lit or overgrown areas.
• Run against traffic.
• Be wary of people who ask you for directions. Keep at least an arms distance from the car of a person asking for assistance.
• If possible, run with a friend or a dog.
• Head for a safe place and call 911 if you see suspicious activity.

The YMCA of Greater Charlotte regularly reviews new methods of improving safety and security at our branches. Most recently, we have focused on the following:

· More lighting in the parking lots

· More security guards and police patrol at branches

· Video camera surveillance