CRIME PREVENTION

Crime Prevention Tips

Citizens’ involvement in the anti-crime campaign need not require direct participation in the police action. By not allowing one’s self to be a victim of crime is already a personal victory against criminality. Awareness and vigilance by citizens is all that matters to deny criminal elements any opportunity to make a move.    This compilation of “Crime Prevention Tips”, is our way of promoting awareness among our citizens on the various modes of operation employed by criminal elements. Being forewarned about these modes of crime should heighten our collective vigilance in making our streets and communities safe for our families.    Preventing crime is better than solving it. And, it should start from the very person who is likely to fall victim. Crime Prevention Tips On Street Crimes “ROBBERY”       Robbery is committed by any person/persons, who with intent to gain, shall take any personal property belongings to another, by means of violence against or intimidation of any person, or using force upon things shall be guilty of robbery (Art. 204, RPC). Robbery Prevention    Teamwork, crime prevention education, community and businesses working together with the police can help reduce the likelihood of robbery. What to do during a Robbery?         · Try to stay calm. Don’t make any sudden movements to upset the robbers.      · Do exactly as you are told. DO NOT RESIST.      · Activate you’re alarm ONLY if you can do so secretly      · Tell the robber about anything that might surprise him, such as someone who is expected to arrive soon.      · If you have to move or reach, tell the robber what you are going to do and why.      · Try to get a good look at the robber so you can describe him later.      · Don’t be a hero. It’s better to lose your money than your life.      · Give the robber time to leave.      · Note his direction of travel when he leaves.      · Try to get a description of his vehicle ONLY if you can do so without exposing yourself to harm. Prevention in a Business Establishment       ·  Have at least two employees open and close the business      · Do not release personal information to strangers     ·  Keep purse and personal valuable locked in desk or lockers      · Install a robbery alarm     · Place a surveillance camera behind the cash register facing the front a counter. Replace the videotapes regularly      · Place excess money in safe or deposit it as soon as possible      · Avoid routine bank transactions, rotate banking days and vary times and routes and travel for bank deposits      · Don’s use marked “moneybags” that make it obvious to would-be robbers you are carrying money for deposits.      · Keep a low balance in the cash register      · CALL A POLICE for any suspicious vehicles roaming in the area.  Sometimes will also serve as the stopper/cleaner whenever someone tries to react or run after the suspects. Prevention at Home                                   · Do not allow strangers into your home, even if they are hurt or say they need help.      · Keep the door locked and CALL THE PNP HOTLINE (09499533159-Smart 09176250174-Globe) for them. Do not advertise that you live alone.      · Don’t be afraid to CALL THE POLICE to investigate suspicious circumstances, unusual people or strange noise. It is better to be safe than sorry.      · When you move into a new home, change the locks.      · Keep your curtains or shades closed at night.     · Never give information to an unknown caller. Report nuisance calls to the police and the telephone company.      · Don’t leave notes on your door announcing when you will be home.      · Keep your doors and windows locked. If it is warn and you leave your door open for circulation, keep the screen door locked.      · If you arrive home and your door is open or things appear to be out of place, don’t go in your home. LEAVE AND CALL THE POLICE.      · Write down license numbers of suspicious vehicles to given to the police, if necessary. Prevention at Work      · Keep your front doors and windows clear of signs and   posters to allow good, to way visibility. ·       Employees can see suspicious persons outside ·       Passersby and police can see inside. ·       Keep the outside of your business well lit at night. ·       Make sure your cash register area is clearly visible to outside observers.      · Practice good cash control. Keep a minimum amount in your cash drawer and make regular drops into a safe.      · Use video camera surveillance and make it well known.      · Always have at least two clerks working at night      · Vary the times and routes that you use to go to the bank      · Make deposits as open often as possible, never less that once a day.      · Be alert from costumers who seem to be loitering or glancing around the store while appearing to shop or browse through a magazine.      · If you see someone who is acting suspicious inside and outside, call the police to have them checked. Auto Theft Awareness       Auto theft is a big and profitable business occurring more often in large cities. It can happen in just less than a minute. More cars are seemingly stolen for transportation, while others for the value of their parts. Car thefts seem to occur with greater frequency where large groups of cars are parked for extended periods of time in places such as shopping centers, colleges, sporting events, movie complexes, and large apartment complexes. It occurs in random on different days of the week and times of the day, depending on the locations. Tips to Avoid being the Victim of a Car Theft      · Never leave your car running unattended, even dash into a business, store, etc.      · Never leave any keys in the car or ignition inside a locked garage, or in hide a key boxes      · Always roll-up your windows and lock the car, even if it is parked in front of your home.      · Always park in high-traffic, well-lighted areas, when possible      · Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk out of sight      · Install a mechanical device that locks the steering wheel, column, or breaks. These devices will deter some criminals      · Investigate the purchase of a vehicle theft tracking/security system, especially if you own one of the frequently stolen vehicles      · Never leave personal identification documents, vehicle ownership title, or credit cards in your vehicle      · Copy your license plate and vehicle information (VIN) numbers on a card and keep them with you      · If your vehicle is stolen, report it to the police immediately Remember, there is no guarantee that your car will not be stolen, but taking precautionary measures can minimize your chances of becoming the victim of auto theft. ATM Safety and Security Tips     Because of the variety of ATMs, the unique characteristics of each installation and crime considerations of each location, no single formula can guarantee the security of ATM costumers. It is necessary for ATM costumers to consider the environment around each ATM and various procedures for remaining safe when using an ATM. Criminals select their victims and targets, focusing on the unaware or unprepared. They are also drawn to environmental conditions that enhance the opportunity to successfully complete their crime. Appearance that you are totally aware of your surroundings:      · Be aware of your total environment and what is going on around you. Criminals tend to avoid people who have this type of demeanor      ·  Perform mental exercises and think out what you would do in different crime or personal security situations      · Follow your instincts. If you feel you are in danger, respond immediately. Remember that your personal safety is the first priority. ATM Selection Considerations      · Do not select an ATM at the corner of the building. Corners create a blind area in close proximity to the costumer’s transactions. Select an ATM located near the center of a building. An ATM further from the corner reduces the element of surprise by an assailant and increase effective reaction time by the user.      · Identify an ATM with maximum natural surveillance and visibility from the surrounding area. This will create a perceived notion of detection by a criminal and increases the potential for witnesses.      ·  Select an ATM at a location void of barriers blocking the line of sight. This includes shrubbery, landscaping, signs and decorative partitions or dividers. Barriers provide hiding areas for would-be assailants.      · Select an ATM that is in a well-lighted location.      · Select an ATM that is monitored or patrolled by a security officer.      · Select an ATM with a wide angle transaction camera.      · Avoid ATM locations with large perimeters parking lots and numerous ingress and egress points. Talking with Kids about Drugs      · Don’t put off talking to your children about alcohol and other drugs.  Kids worry about pressures to try drugs.         · School programs alone aren’t enough.      · Parents must become involved, but most parents aren’t sure how to tell their children about drugs.      · Open communications is one of the most effective tools you can use in helping your child avoid drugs. Some tips How to Say Them      · Tell them that you love them and you want them to be happy and healthy.      ·Say you do not find alcohol and other illegal drugs acceptable.      · Many parents never state this simple principle. Explain how this use hurts people.      · Physical harm- for example, AIDS, slowed growth, impaired coordination, accidents.      · Emotional harm-sense of not belonging, isolation, paranoia.      · Educational harm-difficulties remembering and paying attention.      · Discuss the legal issues.      · A conviction for a drug offense can lead to time in prison or   cost someone a job, driver’s license or college loan.      · Talk about positive, drug free alternatives, and how you can explore them together.      · Some ideas include sports, reading, movies, bike rides, hikes, cooking, games and concerts. Involve your kid’s friends. Possible Signs that a Child is using Drugs      · Change in moods- more irritable, secretive, withdrawn, overly sensitive, inappropriately angry, and euphoric.      · Less responsible-late coming home, late for school or class, dishonest      · Changing friends or changing lifestyles-new interests, Unexplained cash.      · Physical deterioration- difficulty in concentration, loss of coordination, loss of weight, unhealthy appearance. Why do Kids Use Drugs?      · To do what are friends are doing      · To escape pain in their lives      · To fit in      · Boredom      · For fun      · Curiosity      · To take risks Parents should Take a Stand      · Educate yourself about the facts surrounding alcohol and other drug use. You will lose credibility with your child if your information is not correct.      · Establish clear family rules against drug use and enforce them consistently.      · Develop your parenting skills through seminars, networking with other parents, reading, counseling, and support groups. Work with other parents to set community standards-you don’t raise a child alone.      · Volunteer at schools, youth centers, Boys & Girls Club or other activities in your community. Safe School      When crime, drugs, and violence spill over from the streets into the schools, providing a safe learning environment becomes increasingly difficult. More students carry weapons for protection. Gunfights replace fistfights. Many students must travel through drug dealer or gang turf. Violence becomes an acceptable way to settle conflicts. Creating a safe place where children can learn and grow depends on a partnership among students, parents, teachers, and other community institutions to prevent school violence: Here are some practical suggestions for young people, parents, school staff and others in the community.      · Find out how crime threatens schools in your community      · Take actions to protect children      · Promote nonviolent ways to manage conflict Students      · Learn arguments with words, not fists or weapons      · Report crimes or suspicious activities to the police, school authorities, or parents.      · Learn safe routes for traveling to and from school, and know good places to seek help      · Don’t use alcohol or other drugs, and stay away from places they go. Stay away from places and people associated with them      · Get involved in your schools anti-violence activities-have poster contests against violence; hold anti-drug rallies, volunteer to counsel peers. If there’s no program, help start one Parents      · Sharpen your parenting skills.      · Emphasize and build on your children’s strengths.      · Teach your children how to reduce their risks of becoming crime victims.      · Know where kids are, what they are doing, and whom they are with at all times.      · Help your children learn nonviolent ways to handle frustration, anger and conflict.      · Become involved in your child’s school activities—PTA, field trips, and helping out in class or the lunch room.      · Work with other parents in your neighborhood. School Staff      · Evaluate your school’s safety objectively. Set targets for improvement.      · Develop consistent disciplinary policies, good security procedures, and a response plan for emergencies.      · Train school personnel in conflict resolution, problem solving, drug prevention, crisis intervention, cultural sensitivity, classroom management, and counseling skills.      · Work with students, parents, law enforcement, local governments, and community based groups to develop wider-scope crime prevention efforts. Community Members      · Law enforcement can report on the type of crimes in the surroundings community and suggest ways to make school safer.      · Community-based groups, church organizations and other service groups can provide counseling, extended learning programs, before and after school activities, school watches and other community crime prevention programs.      · Local business can provide apprenticeship programs, participate in the adopt-a-school programs, or serve as mentors to area students.      · Colleges and universities can offer conflict management courses to teachers or assist school officials in developing violence prevention curricula.  Youth Crime      Youth crime harms communities, creates a culture of fear and damages the lives of some of our most vulnerable young people. What causes youth crimes?      ·Troubled home life      ·Poor attainment at school, truancy and school exclusion      ·Drug or alcohol misuse and mental illness deprivation such as poor housing or homelessness Tips to control Youth Crime       · Give proper education, training or   employment      · Rehabilitate those involved in drugs      · Mental health assessment and treatment      · They must involved in sports or any youth activities EXPLOSIVES AND INCENDIARY DEVICES  Explosive Substance      Encountering explosive devices and substances, is potentially life threatening. The smallest devices, however plain or innocuous in appearance, have the potential to injure, maim, or fatally wound. Explosive substances come in many shapes and sizes and are classified as either “safe” or “dangerous”. Different signs that a person can look for which might indicate a possible explosive device.      · Foreign mail, airmail and special delivery      · Restrictive markings such as confidential, personal, etc.      · Excessive postage      · Hand written or poorly typed addresses      · Incorrect titles      · Titles but no names      · Misspelled or common words      · Oily stains of discoloration      · No return address      · Excessive weight      · Rigid envelope Tips      If you believe that the suspicious package may possibly be a bomb, consider the following: “Do not touch or handle the device; stay away from the device, and; immediately call the police.” What should someone do after receiving a telephonic bomb threat?       · Immediately call a Police      · Evacuate the location and notify the police from a neighbor’s house or a business.      · Use only conventional telephone, cellular telephone transmissions, have the potential to detonate a bomb. What should someone say to a caller when he/she warns of a bomb at location?      When a bomb threat is called in to you, attempt to keep the caller on the line as long as possible. Ask him/her to repeat the message and be sure to record every word spoken. If the caller does not indicate the location of the bomb or the time of possible detonation, you should ask him/her for this information. It is a good idea to inform the caller that the building is occupied and the detonation of a bomb could result in death or serious injury to innocent people. As you attempt the caller on the line, listen to any particular background noises such as motors running, background music, and other noise which may give a clue as to the location of the caller. Write down as much information as possible. Listen closely to the voice quality for any regional accents and for any speech impediment, the caller might posses. What should someone do if they receive a suspicious package in a Mail?      Explosive devices can be contained in almost anything. Bombs can be constructed to like almost any item and can be delivered in any number of ways. Most bombs are handmade and are limited in their design, only by the imagination of their maker. Letter and package bombs are not new. While the latest incidents have involved political terrorism, such bombs are made for a wide variety of motives. It varies in size, shape, and components. They have electric, non-electric, or other sophisticated firing systems. Ten Internet Rules for Kids      · Don’t Give your home address, telephone number, or school’s name to anyone you meet on the internet      · Don’t Send anyone your picture, credit card or bank details      · Don’t give your password to anyone, even your best friend.      · Don’t hang around a chat room if someone says or writes something which makes you feel uncomfortable or worried.      · Don’t respond to nasty, suggestive or rude e-mails or postings in UseNet groups.      · Don’t pretend to be anyone you are not.      · Do ask your parent or caregiver first if you plan to meet with someone you’ve met online and arrange a meeting only in a public place.      · Do tell your parent or caregiver if you see bad language or distasteful pictures while you are online.      · Do remember that if someone makes you an offer that is too attractive like getting rich instantly or seeing famous celebrity, the offer is most like a trap.      .  Be yourself.

HOTHEADS: Tips on Keeping Calm to Prevent Crime

     Anger is a normal and healthy emotion. We get alarmed when something is wrong and makes us take action. Anger runs wild when people become hostile and violent.

     People lash out when they feel they are being disrespected or treated unfairly. They may be insecure about themselves or sensitive to certain criticism and insults.

     There is always a good time to learn how to cope with your temper.

Admit that you are angry.

     It is hard to deal with something if you do not admit that it exists in the first place. Try saying to yourself, "Okay, I'm really angry right now, but I'm not going to lose my control. I'm going to deal with it."

     When you start feeling angry or frustrated, stop what you're doing. Take a few deep breaths. Count to 10 or 100. Take a walk, stretch, laugh, go for a run, or do anything that takes your mind off the anger. deal with it. Walk away. You have the power to change or avoid an anger-provoking situation, so use it. Losing your temper will only get you down.

     Identify and understand the cause. You've just been turned down by someone you admire. Your best  friend tries to cheer you up by asking stupid questions but this only made you angry. What's the real cause of your outburst? The test. Not your friend. Knowing why you're angry helps you deal with it.

     Don't brush it off. Sometimes everyone gets angry and it's perfectly normal. However, ignoring your feelings doesn't solve the problem and may only make things worse in the long run.

Insights:

     If you are having an argument with someone, try to put yourself in that person's shoes. Understanding where they are coming from might help you resolve the situation without losing your temper.

     If you find that you are angry all of the time, and can't get a grip even after you have really tried, you may need to seek professional help.

Ref: National Police Commission       

Gang Awareness

      Youth gangs have been a part of our society. Today’s gangs pose a greater threat to peace and order and public safety than at any other crime. They use violence, extortion, intimidation and sexual harassment. Sometimes, gang members are involved in illegal drug trade or into drug use.

     Gang recruitment is done in any place where youth are available and not closely supervised. This includes neighborhoods, schools, parks or playgrounds, malls and even churches.

Signs of Gang Involvement

     · Dropping out, truancy, or getting low grades in school;

     · Change of friends;

     · Going home at late hours

     · Alcohol and other drug use;

     · Developing major attitude problems with parents, teachers or other in authority;

     · Becoming secretive or manifesting an abrupt change in behavior;

     · Withdrawing from the family;

     · Presence of tattoos, scarring, burns and brands.

COUNTER ACTION

What Parents can Do?

     ·Know your child’s friends and where they hang out. It will be wise to also have a contact list of their parents;

     · Know if your child is involved in gang activities and what you can do to stop it;

     ·Monitor your child’s activities and behavior;

     · Listen to and talk with your child/teenager;

     · Talk with school officials and counselors. Ask if they are aware of the students’ misconduct that may cause school-related problems and what they plan to do about it;

     · Let you and your child participate in school activities. Know all school activities and encourage your child to take part in the said activities;

     · Contact your local law enforcement agency, barangay or juvenile prevention expert (DSWD) who can share information to you;

     ·Know about community based programs, such as local youth club/organizations, churches, school programs, and sports league;

     · Establish volunteer programs for young people.

What the Community can Do?

     · Intervention and prevention programs should be tailored to a community’s needs and resources;

     · Form partnership with parents, schools, law enforcement, religious institutions, community organizations, business and youth;

     · Establish a community action group/committee

·       Barangay Chairman and other barangay officials should meet on a regular basis to exchange information;

·        Identify the nature and location of the problem, names of gang members, fraternities and other contributing factors;

·        Develop strategies to address the problems and reduce or eliminate contributing factors;

·       Implement activities in coordination with other agencies;

·       Maintain an anti-gang efforts list;

     · Share information or educate all persons involved in gangs and gang activities within your community;

     · Start a neighborhood watch program;

     · Initiate a graffiti abatement or clean-up program;

     · Offer young people alternate programs to check involvement in illegal activities;

·       Ensure that youth have ample recreational activities and after-school programs;

o   Involve your Parks and Recreation Department;

     · Gain the support of local business establishments for employment of youth, summer job or apprenticeship;

     · Provide gang prevention education and training to barangay officials, parents, youth and other NGOs in the community;

What School Can Do?

Ø  Prevention

      · Target prevention programs;

a.   For students

b.   For parents

     · Tutoring

     · Positive activities (SCPC)

     · After-school programs

1.   Sports Development program

     · Maintain school security

     · Staff awareness of early indicators of gang membership

     · Referral system

    · Violence prevention curriculum (Makabayan-Araling Panlipunan, CJS exemplar).

     · Youth development (e.g. thinking, interpersonal and other skills)

     · Utilize youth as a resource person (i.e. in making decisions and developing policies)

     · Build parents’ awareness

     · Start a volunteer parent participation program

       Ø  Use parents and volunteers to help monitor campus premises, its immediate vicinity and public utility vehicles, bus/jeepney stop and waiting areas

Intervention

     ·Team approach (parents, school staff, community leaders and law enforcement)

     · Early identification of at-risk-youth

     · Referral and tracking system

     · Student assistance service

     · Skills development

     · Counseling

     · Tutoring

Suppression

      · Formulating policies aimed at reducing gang activity

     · Imposition of administrative disciplinary action, such as suspension or expelled

     · Consistent enforcement of laws and school policies.

 “Many people view gang as a law enforcement responsibility. Partnerships within the community is the key to prevention.”

“The longer a person is a member of a gang, the more difficult it is for him to leave.”

Remember, for many members, the gang has become like a replacement family.”

Do Not Fall Victim of Cell Phone Snatching

     The increasing number of cell phone users in metro Manila and other areas in the country has given rise to a seemingly lucrative but illegal business by unscrupulous individuals and gangs. Cell phone theft is on the rise and cell phone snatchers are getting bolder every day, employees and  just about any cell phone owner who carelessly use or carry around their cell phone units in public places without due regard to their security or safety. The situation continues to worsen as snatchers resort to violence when their victims resists or fight back. There have been reports of injuries and death resulting from such incidents – and the statistics are rising.

     The Philippine National Police recognizes the gravity of this problem and the dangers it continues to pose on the general public. While the police is doing its best to contain this problem, the active involvement of the general public in putting a stop to this menace is just as vital. Vigilance, more than anything else, spells the big difference.

     Towards this end, the PNP is distributing this material for the  general public to read and put to heart in the effort to finally put a stop to cell phone thievery. Cell phone owners are specifically encouraged to stay alert at all times and to keep in mind the following tips:

Dos and DON’TS on Cell Phone Theft

Dos

      -  Buy cell phones only from authorized dealers.

    -  Record your cell phone serial numbers immediately after purchase. Serial numbers are available in the retail packs of brand new units. If you failed to record the numbers or if you didn’t buy your unit brand new, you could retrieve the serial numbers by pressing certain keys. (For Nokia units, press *#06# to retrieve the serial number.) Cell phone companies can block calls to and from stolen units if the serial numbers are reported to them.

     - As much as possible, bring your cell phone with you only if you urgently need it during the day. Otherwise, it is best that you leave it at home.

     - Always place your cell phone in your pocket or bag where it is not visible.

     - Set your cell phone in “silent” mode when you are in public places and inside public vehicles.

     -  If there is an urgent need for you to use your cell phone while outside, go to a place where you are more secured – inside stores, near security guards, near police stations, inside offices, or even in comfort room cubicles.

     - Always walk in well-lighted places. When walking alone, be on guard for persons following you – walk towards areas where there are people in case you might need help.

     - Keep your bag with your cell phone inside close to your body.

     - When in public vehicles, be alert for snatchers; be suspicious of passengers who come in threes or fours and who position themselves beside/behind the driver near the estribo, and one among the passengers.

     - If you fall victim to snatchers, report to the police and to your cell phone providers immediately.

     - Always cooperate with the police and barangay authorities.

     - If you wish to own a second hand cell phone, ask for the complete kit and receipt.

DON’Ts

     - When in public places, refrain from displaying your cell phone unnecessarily. Avoid using it in public. Do not clip it on your waist or carry it while walking or while inside public vehicles. This will only give snatchers the opportunity to grab it from you.

     - Never lend your cell phones to strangers who may approach you to make emergency calls.

     - Do not resist hold-up men or snatchers. Do not panic. Follow their instructions but remain calm enough to remember their description and the directions they took in escaping

     -  When inside establishments, offices or restaurants, do not leave your cell phone lying around tables, on top of cabinets, or even on chairs beside you. You’ll never know when strangers, or thieves posing as visitors, may come and take your cell phone when you are least Aware.

     - When paying for purchases in stores or super markets, do not leave your cell phone on the counter. Place it in your bag or pocket.

Remember, buying or selling stolen property is punishable under the “Anti-Fencing Law” or PD 1612.

     The anti-Fencing Law is a special law which imposes penalties on people who sell, buy or acquire anything of value which are stolen.

     People caught possessing stolen property or articles will be punished with imprisonment of 6 to 12 years to a maximum of 20 years depending on the value of the stolen property or articles.

You can Prevent Rape

     The city attracts all types of people. Most of them are law-abiding citizens. But there are exceptions, and you have no way of knowing who is and who is not law abiding.    

Here are few precautions which will greatly reduce your chances of becoming a victim of rape:

     -  Be alert when you’re alone.

     - Stay out of alleys, vacant lots and buildings.

     - Walk near the curb and don’t pass too closely to shrubbery, dark doorways and other concealed places. Avoid shortcuts.

     -  Carry a whistle in your hand ready to use

     -  If someone is following you, immediately cross the street and lead for bright lights and where there are people. Be ready to use your whistle.

     -  Be discreet. Don’t broadcast details of your personal plans to casual acquaintances or strangers.

     -   If you must work late in an office building, alert a friend of relative or the security guard so he will know where you are and when to expect you. Ask your employer to provide an escort, or arrange to leave in a group. Don’t walk to your vehicle alone if you can avoid it.

     -      When arriving home by taxi or private car, request the driver to wait until you have entered the house.

     -  If you are driving your own car, it is suggested that:

     · Keep window rolled up. If your car does not have an air-conditioning, lower the windows just so there would be enough ventilation.

          · When walking to your car, keep your keys in your hand until you are surely inside. Doing so would allow you to get inside the vehicle more quickly if ever somebody attacks.

      - If you suspect that someone is following you, try to make a few turns down active streets. If he makes the same turns, head for the nearest police station or 24-hour convenient store. Do not head for your own quite residence area.

          · If someone forces you off the road, do not panic. Instead, blow your horn repeatedly to attract attention if you are forced over, put car in reverse as soon as you stop and back away.

          · Before getting inside your car, check if there’s somebody inside hiding in the nearest backseat. When leaving your car, make sure it is locked.

          ·        As much as possible, park your car in a well-lit area. This will not only deter rapist but will also prevent car thieves as well.

     -    If a door or window has been forcibly opened or broken while you were away, do not enter your house or call out. Someone may still be inside. Use a neighbor’s phone immediately to call the police and wait there until they arrive.

     -          Don’t hitchhike or accept rides from strangers. If a vehicle approaches and you are threatened, turn and run in the opposite direction. The driver will have to turn around to pursue you. Make your screams loud and long. Remember: the opportunity for a rape is increased when you accept an offer of a ride home or a late snack from someone whom you’ve just met at a lounge, club or party. Being aware will lessen your chances of being assaulted.

The object is to get away with the least injury to yourself.

     - Violence is seldom far from the rapist’s mixed-up mind. Rape is much more a crime of violence than of sex. The rapist deals with threats in just two ways. Fight or Flight.

     - If your assailant has a weapon, don’t resist. You will have to gain his confidence if you are to escape the assault. Gaining the man’s confidence is an essential step in gaining your freedom unharmed.

     - Your best chance to react safely is when your assailant’s guard is down. To install for time, you may need to give the impression that you are going along with him. You need to go along will end when you see or devise a chance to react safely.

If Attacked

      - Be prepared to defend yourself if physically attacked.

     -  Think!

     -  Don’t panic!

     -  Look a way to escape!

     -  Your best defense is noise – a loud screaming.

     - Scream “Help!” If there is no response, try screaming “Fire!” “Fire!” “Fire!” Because it could affect them.

     - If you have exhausted all other possibilities for immediate escape, talk to the rapist. Talk about his family, how he doesn’t want to upset them or involve them. Getting him to talk may give you an opportunity to escape. More women escape by talking than by fighting.

     -  If you physically resist your attacker, don’t hold back. You must totally incapacitate him to enable you to escape. 

When you are victimized

     - Report the crime to the nearest police station

     - Have a medical and internal gynecological examination as son as possible accompanies by a police officer

     - Inform the doctor of exact acts committed upon you have him note any medical evidence about the rape.

     -  Semen smears must betaken by the doctor

     -  Doctors should take note of bruises or injuries.

    -  Have the doctor test you for venereal disease and pregnancy.

     - Inform the police of all details of the attack, especially about anything unusual that you may have noted about the attacker.

    - Show police any external bruises resulting in the attack. Also show them to a friend or relative who might be available as a corroborative witness at the trial.

     -  Give any torn clothing to the police.

     -  When calm, make note of the events of the attack, unusual details, etc.

     -  In conducting thorough investigation, the police officer will ask the victim any questions and will go over the details of the rime. This is necessary because the victim frequently recalls additional information and details during the subsequent interviews that are important for the apprehension and prosecution of the assailant.

     -  When you are asked to testify, cooperate with the authorities. You will benefit by doing so, and you may prevent others from suffering as you had.

     - Point out any object the assailant touched or used in committing the crime. This can be used as evidence.

     -  Never assume that suspicious persons, occurrences, or vehicles have been reported to the police. Call the police whenever you are threatened by danger. Should your call proved to be a false alarm, it is better to be a bit embarrassed than to be killed, raped or otherwise injured.

On Bombs and Bomb Threats

     Be constantly prepared! There is no excuse for not taking every step necessary to meet a bomb threat.

     BOMB. A device capable of producing damage to material and injury or death to people when detonated or ignited. Bombs are classified as explosive which causes damage by fragmentation, heat and blast wave; and incendiary which generates fire-producing heat without a substantial explosion when ignited.

     BOMBING. A bombing occurs when an explosive bomb detonates or an incendiary bomb ignites.

     BOMB THREAT. An information or waning claiming knowledge that a dangerous device, such as bomb or similar type of explosive, has been or will be placed in a building, aircraft or other facilities.

  BOMBING INCIDENT. Any occurrence involving the detonation/ignition of a bomb, the discovery of a bomb, or the execution of a bomb.

Why prepare against Bomb Incidents?

The Philippine National Police encourages every citizen and every establishment to be constantly prepared against bomb threats and bombing incidents. Through preparation, you can reduce the accessibility of your building and identify those areas that can be “hardened” against the potential bomber. Proper planning can also reduce the treat of panic and decrease the potential for injury and property damage.

     Be prepared! There is no excuse for not taking every step necessary to meet the threat.

     HOW TO PREPARE. In preparing to cope with a bomb incident, it is necessary to develop two separate plans: a security plan and a bomb incident plan.

     - Security provides for the protection of property, personnel, facilities, and material against unauthorized entry, trespass, damage, sabotage, or other illegal or criminal acts. The security plan deals with prevention and control of access to the building.

     - The bomb incident plan provides detailed procedures to be implemented when a bomb is found or threatened.

     - In planning, a command center must be designated to be located in a focal point of telephone or radio communications. Obtain an updated blueprint of floor plan of your building and maintain it in the command center.

     - Contact the police department, fire department, or local government agencies for any assistance in developing your security or bomb incident plans.

     - Training essential to deal properly with a bomb threat incident. Instruct all personnel, especially those at the telephone switchboard, on what to do if a bomb threat is received.

     RESPONDING TO BOMB THREATS. Each threat received through any means of communications should be treated as real and must be forwarded immediately to the proper authorities.

     Telephone Bomb Threats. The receiving party must remain calm and courteous. Try to obtain as much information as possible from the caller. Take note of the following procedures:

     -  Get the identity of the caller.

     - Take note of the following characteristics: male or female voice; young, middle-age or old sounding voice; accent of voice; speech impediments or peculiar voice characteristics; any background noise; does the voice sound familiar,

     -  The exact words of the persons placing the call.

     -  Show no emotion on the phone.

     - Know the exact location of the bomb.

     -  Ask for a description of the bomb/composition of the explosive.

     - Repeat the message to the caller whenever possible and ask for confirmation.

     - The receiving party should remain calm and courteous. He should listen carefully and write sown accurately the information the caller provides.

     -  If possible, refer the caller to a supervisor or a person in authority to extract more information.

     - Apply delaying tactics and engage the caller in prolonged conversation.

     - Take note of the exact time the suspect hung up.

     - The person receiving the bomb threat should attempt to ask the caller certain questions: When is the bomb going to explode? What does the bomb look like? What will cause it to explode? Why did you place the bomb?

     - Remember that the caller may not answer your question, but any additional information that may relate will be helpful.

     - It may be advisable to inform the caller that the building is occupied and the detonation of a bomb could result in death or serious injury to many innocent people.

     - Once the telephone threat is received, notify your local police at once. 

     Handwritten or typed Notes. Documents and other materials received should be carefully handled to preserve marks, fingerprints, etc. for examination by competent  authorities. These items should be forwarded immediately to the proper authorities for analysis and evaluation. Written messages should never be ignored.

Person to Person or Direct Threat

     - Notify your security supervisor immediately.

     - Keep the person making the threat or indicating knowledge of a threat under surveillance until relieved by your supervisor.

    - Take note of the age, height, weight, sex, color of eyes/hair/skin, clothing, and unusual characteristics such as lameness, twitching or any peculiarities of the person under surveillance. Observe other personal behavior, if any.

    - If the person leaves the scene, take note of the make, model, color, plate number and markings of the vehicle used.

     PHYSICAL SEARCH OF BUILDINGS. The most effective and fastest search of a building can be made by the normal occupants of that building. Bomb can be packed in as many different ways as the maker’s imagination will allow. Since the object of the search can vary in size and shape, it is a fundamental rule that search must be made by persons who are familiar with the area in order to notice a strange or foreign object.

     In some instances, the detonation or ignition of any explosive or incendiary might depend on a change in environment, e.g. temperature variations or the presence of an electric current. Therefore, the personnel assigned to conduct the search should be cautioned not to cause, or at least minimize any change in the environment. Do not go into a dark room and turn n the lights or change the setting of the thermostats in the room.

Safety Tips for Children 

     Begin with the Basics

      - Make sure the children know their full name, address (city and street), telephone number including area code, and names of his or her parents.

     - Be sure children know how to call or text emergency 117 and how to use a pay phone.

     Teach children never to accept ride or gifts from someone they don’t know.

     - Teach children to go to a clerk, security guard or police officer for help if lost in a mall, store or street.

     - Accompany children to public restrooms.

     - Teach children that no one, not even someone they know, has the right to touch them in a way that makes them feel uncomfortable. Tell them they have the right to say “NO” in this situation.

     - Show children safe places they can go in your neighborhood in case of an emergency, like a trusted neighbor’s house.

     - Inspect areas in your neighborhood that threaten children’s safety, like bushes in wooded areas, overgrown shrubbery, poor lighting, etc. and tell them to avoid these places.

At School and at Play

     - Encourage children not to walk and play alone. Tell them to avoid places that could be dangerous like: alleys, wooded areas, vacant building, and new construction.

    - Make sure children take the safest routes to and from school, stores, and friend’s houses. Teach children to always take the same way home from school.

    - Teach children to talk confidently and be alert to what’s going on around them.

    - Teach children to avoid strangers who may hang around playgrounds, public restrooms, vacant building, etc.

    - Children should not walk next to curbs.

    - Children should avoid using cell phones in public places or public utility vehicles.

    - Children should not wear expensive jewelry or clothing to school.

    - A child should check in with parent or trusted neighbor as soon as they arrive home from school. Someone should know if they are staying late at school.

    - Parents should take time to listen carefully to children’s fear and feelings about people or places that scare them or make them feel uneasy. Tell them to trust their instincts. Take complaints about bullies seriously.

    - Children should be taught to settle argument with words, not fist or weapons.

    - Children should be taught to tell a school official immediately if they see another student with a gun, knife or other weapon.