"Building a better tomorrow, By starting today"

TRAVELING SAFETY TIPS

• On public transportation try to sit as close to the driver or operator as you can. They provide some additional safety.
• On public transportation, if it's possible, sit in one of the seats that runs the length of the vehicle rather than one which faces forward. This offers you a greater opportunity to be aware of what is happening on the vehicle, and no-one can get behind you.
• Try to travel using public transportation before 11pm as the later it gets, the more likely you are to face individuals who are adversely affected by drugs or alcohol.
• If you must travel after 11pm, travel in groups or try to travel by taxi. Groups provide greater safety, and taxis take you from door to door, which is safer than most public transportation.
• In vehicles, always keep your doors locked. Especially with vehicles today, it's hard for criminals to open your door using the button as most now retract flush with the window sill.
• Always review the area prior to parking and getting out of your vehicle, and prior to returning to and getting into your vehicle for suspicious people or activity.
• Always park in well lit, well traveled areas. Try to avoid dark parking areas, or very quiet streets.
• Always have your keys ready as you approach your vehicle and get into the relative safety of your vehicle as quickly as possible
• Be cautious of vans parked next to your vehicle in parking lots if it is parked adjacent to your drivers door. Observe the van for movement and try to check it out for possible occupancy. If you're unsure, enter your vehicle through the passenger door.
• If you believe you are being followed by another vehicle, call 911 and drive to the nearest police station, hospital emergency ER, or fire station.
• iI an unmarked police vehicle tries to stop you in a deserted area, on a lonely stretch or road, or in circumstance that make you uncomfortable, call 911 and continue to drive at the speed limit until you can confirm with the police 911 dispatcher that it is a legitimate police vehicle behind you and that you should stop. In most circumstances, unmarked police vehicles will call upon a marked vehicle to stop you.
• Should you break down in a deserted area, on a lonely stretch or road, or in circumstances that make you feel uncomfortable, put on your emergency flashers, call for assistance, lock your doors and close your windows, and wait for assistance to arrive. If a good Samaritan arrives, simply ask them to call the police if you do not have a telephone yourself, but do not get out of your vehicle to accept the assistance. Crack your window only a few inches to talk to the helper.

Matthew Shepard was savagely murdered in 1998 by two men who tricked him into going with them because he was gay. Matthew is recognized as our associations honorary founding member. In his memory we hope that providing the programs and information we do may prevent a similar tradgedy from occurring.

www.matthewshepard.org

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