It seems we all need
to carry more of our personal possessions around with us these days.
Cash in your wallet
or purse; checkbooks, credit cards, personal organizers and mobile phones are
just some of the everyday items that are sorely missed if they are stolen.
All these possessions
might seem invaluable, but according to the police the best advice for hanging
on to your possessions is "only take what you need with you". They suggest you
learn to minimize the amount of possessions you carry with you. If you don't
need a camera with you, don't take it and the same goes for cash and credit
cards, only take what cash you need and don't take all your credit cards with
you, just the ones you are likely to use.
Keep your purse or
wallet somewhere where you can feel it, such as an inside jacket or trouser
pocket. Pockets you can zip up or button are best. Check every now and then to
make sure you still have your wallet or purse on you, but don't make this too
obvious as pickpockets can spot you doing this and that lets them know where
your wallet is. Try to appear relaxed, but at the same time be thoughtful about
your surroundings. Pickpockets like busy streets and crowded places, and someone
bumping in to you could well be a pickpocket. If this happens, check you still
have your things with you, but again don't make it too obvious that you're doing
this.
Likewise, keep your
mobile phone out of sight - in a zipped up pocket is best. If you carry a bag,
strap it across your chest and keep hold of it, but at the same time try not to
look overly cautious. Keep the zip or opening towards you. Be aware that
back-pack style bags are especially vulnerable to thieves.
Do not leave your bag
unattended in a public place, such as in a pub, coffee bar, airport or shop. If
you're trying on shoes in a shop for example, don't walk even a short distance
away from your bag. Keep it with you or ask the shop assistant to hold it for
you.
If something is
stolen, go to the nearest police station or call the police. However, don't ring
using 911 unless you have actually caught someone in the act and have managed to
apprehend them. Think carefully before chasing after someone or trying to
restrain a thief. The value of what they have stolen may be minor compared to
the consequences of being attacked. Always put your own safety first.
