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Dear Residents, The Metropolitan Police Service is sharing the following crime prevention advice to help keep you safe while out and about in your local area. Protect Yourself from Street Robbery Street robbery can occur anywhere. Taking simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk. Stay Confident and Alert Walk with confidence and purpose.Always remain aware of your surroundings.Avoid distractions, particularly when using mobile phones in public.Plan Your Journey Plan your route in advance, especially when travelling to unfamiliar locations.Use busy, well-lit streets and routes covered by CCTV where possible.Use licensed taxis or minicabs booked via telephone or official mobile applications only.Keep Valuables Out of Sight Keep mobile phones, wallets and valuables concealed.Avoid using your phone while walking.Do not leave valuables on tables in outdoor cafés, pubs or restaurants.Keep jewellery covered when walking in public. Protect Yourself from ATM Theft Before Using an ATM Check the surrounding area before approaching.Be alert to anyone standing unusually close.Inspect the machine for signs of tampering.While Withdrawing Cash Always cover your PIN.Ignore distractions or attempts to engage you in conversation.Always keep your bank card in sight.After Using an ATM Put your card away immediately.If something does not feel right, leave and use an ATM inside a bank branch.Regularly check bank statements for any suspicious activity. Prevent Mobile Phone Theft Criminals may use bicycles or mopeds to steal mobile phones, particularly in busy streets and public locations. Stay Aware Look out for bikes or mopeds approaching from any direction.Avoid using your phone near the roadside.Do not text while walking.Stand close to a wall or building if you need to use your phone.Consider using hands-free options.Use Phone Security Features Enable PIN, password or biometric security.Lock your phone when not in use.Use tracking and anti-theft apps where available.Enable remote lock or wipe functions.Record Your IMEI Number Dial *#06# to find your phone’s IMEI number.Keep a record of this number somewhere safe.Report stolen phones to your network provider immediately.Register valuables on an accredited property database. Never confront a thief. Your personal safety is the priority. Helping Others Feel Safer on Our Streets Everyone has a role to play in keeping our streets safe. Be Considerate Leave space when walking behind others, especially at night.Avoid staring or following closely.Cross the road if necessary to prevent causing concern.Be Respectful Avoid comments or behaviour that could be intimidating or upsetting.Calm situations safely where appropriate.Be an Active Bystander Offer support if someone appears uncomfortable.Intervene safely or seek assistance where necessary.Support others who are helping. Important Safety Reminder If you are threatened with violence, do not resist. Property can be replaced — you can’t. Yours faithfully, Metropolitan Police Service Longbridge Safer Neighbourhoods Team
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