Purse Protection

Be crime conscious – be aware of crime opportunities at all times!

If at all possible, don’t carry a purse.
When possible, carry your wallet, keys, and other valuables on your person, or in an inside pocket, or other suitable place, rather than your
purse. Your purse should be used to carry brushes, combs, make-up, etc.
Credit cards and checks should be carried instead of cash. Maintain a record of the account numbers at home. Practice carrying only the cards you will be using.
Carry a shoulder bag securely between your arm and body away from traffic.
If you are wearing a coat, carry a purse worn over the shoulder, but under the coat.
Watch your surroundings. Be alert for suspicious persons especially around banks, stores, streets, and your home.

At night, stay in well-lighted areas and avoid walking close to shrubbery, dark doorways, or other places of concealment.
Practice the “buddy system”, and shop with a friend when possible. When walking in twos, place your purse between you and your friend.
Carry a clutch bag un-snapped and upside down between your arm and body with any valuables in the zippered compartment. If someone attempts to steal your purse, loosen your grip, thus allowing the contents to fall to the ground.
Consider “fanny packs” whenever possible.
If you are attacked, don’t struggle. Your purse can easily be replaced; you can’t be. If there is a witness, ask that person to stay until police arrive.
Notify police immediately after an attack – 10111.

Don’t carry large amounts of money. The first rule is to limit your losses.
Don’t carry more than you can easily afford to lose. Many purse snatches are committed solely to finance narcotic addictions.
Don’t carry unnecessary valuables in your purse.
Don’t let your purse hang loosely in your hand.
Don’t carry a lethal weapon; it could be used against you.
Don’t fight. Surrender your purse.