YOUTH TIPS: PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM VIOLENT CRIME

	The ills of violent crime are something that everyone worries about, but as a young person, you should be particularly cautious concerning potential attacks.  Fortunately, there is a lot that you can do in order to reduce their risk of being assaulted.  In limiting your susceptibility to potential harms, it is important to know the facts about violent crimes in general.  Contrary to popular belief, most violent crimes are perpetrated by a person of the same race or cultural background as the victim.  Furthermore, in most transgressions against women, the aggressor is a person with whom the victim is already acquainted.

	Always remain watchful, paying attention to your environment for potential hazards.  It is vital to practice "street smarts" when you are out and about.  Always know exactly where you are going and what the safest way is to get there, even if you must sacrifice convenience for the benefit of safety.  If possible, tell a friend or family member about where you are going and when you expect to arrive so that they can check up on you.  
The key to reducing your risk of being attacked is to make yourself a poor target in the eyes of criminals.  Keep yourself mobile, alert, and unencumbered.  Try wearing comfortable clothing and shoes, and avoid carrying heavy objects or wearing headphones.  Keep your head up and walk at a steady pace; these signs convey to onlookers that you are confident in your surroundings.  If you should suspect that someone is following you on foot, cross the street and head toward other people with the intention of dodging the pursuer in a crowd.  If you believe that someone is following you in an automobile, simply turn around and walk in the exact opposite direction.

	If you yourself are going to be traveling by car, you can also take steps to protect yourself from danger.  Keep the doors locked when you drive and do not pick up hitchhikers under any circumstances.  Try to park in well-lit spots and as close to your destination as possible.  Have your keys in hand as you approach the car to avoid fumbling in your pockets or purse for them.  If you travel by public transportation, wait only at busy, well-lit stations or stops and sit nearby to the driver or conductor.

	In the event that a potential attacker should approach you, take a moment to size up the situation if you can. If help is nearby, try screaming for it.  If the attacker is interested only in your money, give it up.  Your life and health are much more valuable than anything you might be carrying.  If possible, throw your money in one direction and run in the other.  Although fighting back is recommended only in the most extreme of cases, remember that a quick blow to a vulnerable area such as the eyes, throat, or groin can buy you just enough time to make a hasty escape.

	As is the case with many of life's issues, the best policy in avoiding violent crime is to avoid risky situations and to trust your instincts.  Use common sense in steering clear of unsafe people, places, activities, and substances.  Remember that alcohol and drugs can greatly impair your sense of judgment, making you a much more attractive target for crime.

Larry Deutsch is the Community Education Director for Youth In Need, a non-profit organization serving the youth and families of Eastern Missouri.  Through the organization's Vicims of Crime Counseling program, victims of an assault may receive counseling at no cost.  Youth In Need helps over 5,000 children and families each year through over 50 residential-treatment, community, early-childhood, educational, counseling, and employment programs.  For more information on Youth In Need's programs, please call (636) 946-0101 or (636) 946-3771 for the 24-hour crisis hotline.