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

Walking/Travel Safety Tips

  • Inform others when and where you are going. Check in with them when you reach your destination.
  • Have your keys ready when 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 be aware of your surroundings. Be mindful of people loitering or acting suspiciously.
  • If you suspect that 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/stop.
  • Don't hitchhike or pick up hitchhikers. Once trapped inside a 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. Dial 9-1-1.
  • If you live alone, use first initials only on mail boxes, apartment directories, and/or on telephone directories
  • Entrances and garages should be well lit
  • Never 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 and effects secure
  • Don't display large amounts of money in public
  • Be wary if 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