Back to school safety tips

Seattle Police issued a reminder for general back to school safety tips as students get ready to go back to school:

General Safety Tips

Follow your intuition. Pay close attention to the uncomfortable feelings that often warn us of potential danger. “Trust your gut.” If you feel that a situation is not right, move out of the situation. Trusting your own instincts about a situation that feels “wrong” can be the best personal safety tool you have. Don’t be afraid to cross the street, return to a business or ask for help based on that “funny feeling.” You may be right.
Be aware of your surroundings. In social situations, be alert to places and situations that make you vulnerable or unsafe. Know who is nearby or who may be following you.
Walk confidently and alertly. Avoid walking alone and using shortcuts.
Walk with others and stay on paths that are well lit where you can easily see and be seen.
Carry your valuables safely and securely. Don’t display items (e.g., I-pods, cash, phones), when walking to and from your destination.

Being Safe on the Bus or Light Rail

Maintain situational awareness on the bus, train and at transit stops.
While waiting for public transportation, keep your back close to a wall (or pole) so that you cannot be surprised from behind.
Don’t use or flash valuables on the bus or train.
If there is a problem on the bus or train, notify the driver and/or call 911.
If someone is bothering you on the bus or train, notify the driver.
If few people are on the bus or train, sit near the driver.
Use the transit schedules to minimize the length of time waiting for the bus or train.
Keep your purse, shopping bag, backpack, packages, etc., in your lap, on your arm, or between your feet — not by themselves on an empty seat.
Don’t let yourself doze off on the bus or train; it can make you an easy target.
If you feel uneasy about getting off at your usual stop, stay on until the next stop.
Guard transit passes like cash or other valuables (the school is not entitled to give you a new one if yours is lost or stolen).

Being Safe on the Street

Know your routes. Notice lighting, alleys, abandoned buildings, and street people.
If you are being followed or you see a person or group further down the street that makes you feel uncomfortable, cross the street, walk in another direction, or ask other people walking if you may walk a short distance with them.
Pick out places that you consider safer, places where you can either make a stand or reassure yourself that you are not being followed (i.e., lit porches, bus stops, stores, etc.).
Walk near the curb and away from buildings, trees, and shrubbery, which can hide potential threats.
When walking to your home or apartment, carry your house keys in your hand. Don’t stand in a doorway and fumble in your purse or pocket for your keys. Have them ready to use.
Always dress so that your movements are not restricted.

If You Are Confronted

It may seem like a good idea to tell a robber that you have no money, but this technique may backfire. Carry a little money in an accessible place separate from the rest of your cash. It may be safer to give up a dollar or two while keeping the rest of your money hidden safely in your shoe or down inside your socks.
If someone demands your property and displays a weapon or implies that they have a weapon, losing some of your property probably isn’t worth getting injured or killed over.
If someone tries to grab you, make a scene. Scream, punch, kick, and fight until you break free. Do whatever you can to get away and attract attention. Call 911 as soon as possible.

Talk About Guns

If you see someone carrying a gun on school campus – report it immediately.
If you find a gun – do not handle it. You and the other students should stay away from it and report it immediately to school security, a teacher or school staff.
If you see a person with a gun – quickly and quietly walk the other way. Report it immediately. Call 9-1-1 and/or text CrimeStoppers anonymously.

Make Your School Safer – What Students Can Do

First, know that your safety should be your number one priority.
Learn and practice ways of settling conflicts, disagreements and arguments in non-threatening, non-violent ways.
Be respectful of others. Treat others as you would want to be treated.
Report all crimes and suspicious activities to school staff and police.

REPORTING CRIME

POLICE – FIRE – MEDICAL EMERGENCIES: 9-1-1

Call 9-1-1 . . .

When you have a police, fire or medical emergency.
To report a crime.
When there is a situation that poses an actual or potential danger to life or property.
When there is suspicious activity.

In Seattle Public Schools

CrimeStoppers: Text-A-Tip or Call TIPLINE (206-343-2020)

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