The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) presents these guidelines that will help you to protect your and your family, help reduce crime, and in maintaining a more secure and safer environment.

Walking/Travel Safety Tips

  • Inform others when and where you are going and check in with them when you reach your destination.
  • Have your keys ready upon approaching your parked vehicle.
  • Walk on well-lit streets near the curb and away from alleys, particularly if you must walk alone at night.
  • When in public, always beware of your surroundings. Be mindful of persons loitering or acting suspiciously.
  • If you suspect you are being followed, go to the nearest well-lit place or populated area, and
    yell if necessary to attract attention.
  • When taking public transit alone, avoid waiting or getting off at isolated stations/stops. Arrange for a family member or friend to escort you to and from the station.
  • Don't hitch-hike or pick up hitch-hikers. Once trapped inside the vehicle, it is difficult to escape or call for assistance.

At Home

  • If you return home to find that your windows and/or doors have been tampered with, DO NOT ENTER OR CALL OUT. Call 9-1-1.
  • If you live alone, use first initials only on mail boxes, apartment directories, or in the telephone directory.
  • Entrances and garages should be well lit.
  • Don't let strangers into your house. Insist on proper identification from service personnel. If someone asks to use your phone, offer to make the call for them instead.
  • If you feel menaced in a one-on-one situation, act at once, even if it means leaving your home.
  • Never admit on the telephone or at your door that you are alone.
  • Never stay alone in apartment laundry rooms, mail rooms, or garages.

In Public

  • Always keep your personal information secure.
  • Don't display large amounts of money in public.  
  • Be aware of scams in case a stranger approaches you under false pretenses. Avoid giving your name, address, and/or place of employment.
  • It is risky to accept a ride home and/or invitation for a night cap from someone you have just met.