How to protect yourself against crime

Even though nobody is safe from becoming a victim of crime, an active approach to personal safety can reduce this risk. 

• If you are planning to go out in the evening, make sure to also plan your return route – for example, whether you will be travelling alone or with your friends, whether you will take the bus or taxi.
• Inform your loved ones or friends if you are planning a longer trip. Do not forget to warn them if your plans have changed.
• Have a mobile phone with you where the emergency number 112 is saved so that you would be able to dial it quickly.
• Avoid walking alone at night.
• Walk only through well-lit streets that are familiar to you. If possible, avoid tunnels and underground passages, and do not take shortcuts from the main street unless the area is well-lit.
• Be aware of your environment – do not put on your headphones and do not browse through your mobile phone.
• Put on comfortable shoes and wear comfortable clothing in which you can easily move. Carry your bag over your shoulder, with the zipper facing inwards.
• If you notice that someone is following you, trust your instincts and take action. Change direction or go to the other side of the street, and walk towards areas where there are people. If necessary, call the emergency number 112.
• Always have your key ready when approaching home.
• Consider purchasing a personal alarm.
• Park your car in a well-lit parking lot, near areas where people tend to gather.
• In all cases, lock your car and never leave the engine running.
• Lock yourself inside the car, if you are waiting for someone or talking on the phone.
• Do everything to prevent a stranger from getting into your car or prevent him from pulling you inside of his car.
• Do not carry large amounts of money with you. Take only as much as you need for that day.
• Do not keep all your valuable items in one place. It is better to keep your wallet in your inside pocket.
• Do not display your money, wallet, mobile phone or expensive jewellery in places where you do not feel safe.
• If somebody is trying to rob you, give them what they want – do not risk your life.
• Use the ATM machine with caution. If you notice something suspicious, do not use it.
• Do not write down your PIN code anywhere, and make sure that nobody sees your PIN code while you are using the ATM machine.