I have lived in a community for several years now that has always been well known for being safe, quiet and wholesome. But this past week, the police have been out to this community 5+ times. With 3 burglaries, an attempted robbery with a weapon, destruction of property from one neighbor to another neighbor's property and other criminal mischief, it no longer feels like that safe haven I once had. Perhaps it is the fear of a suffering economy, or the anticipation of the holiday gift-giving. For whatever the reason, it appears that the struggling times that many of us face are bringing out the worst in many people. With this being said, it is important to take a step back and evaluate the measures that you may take to protect yourself and your belongings.

Here are some tips to help you in keeping safe at all times:

1. Always check your surroundings when entering and exiting your home, office or vehicle.

2. Park in a well lit location and always check the area around your vehicle before walking up to it. Ask a Security Guard, if available, to walk you to your vehicle.  

3. Carry a pocket-size alarm. Once activated, these devices emit an ear-splitting noise that alerts everyone nearby that you need help. And although the perpetrator may flee, you are able to get to safety. "And if an alarm is knocked from your hand," notes Joe Mele, assistant professor at the National Crime Prevention Institute, "it will continue to yell for help -- even if you can't." See top model: Quorum's PAAL II ($39; 800-883-0035), which has a 103-decibel siren (as loud as most home burglar alarms) and an eye-catching strobe light. 

4. Consider packing a defensive spray. A number of manufacturers now make $10- to-$35 aerosol sprays, some not much larger than a lipstick tube, that can disable an attacker for as long as 20 minutes. Our experts felt that the pepper-formula sprays are more effective than tear-gas models, like Mace's, against attackers under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The active ingredient in pepper sprays: capsicum, a fiery extract of cayenne. Or you can get a combination spray like the Defender Plus from Citizens Against Crime ($20; 800-466-1010), which emits pepper, tear gas and an invisible fluorescent dye that can mark crooks for positive identification later by police. Note: Some states, such as California and Massachusetts, require you to get a permit for the sprays. Others, like New York and Wisconsin, prohibit you from carrying them. So check with your police department before buying a spray.

5. Take a self-defense course. Rather than the martial arts, which can require years to master, consider a basic three-hour course on common sense ways to stay out of trouble. The crime-prevention unit of your police department can recommend a class. Or call Resources for Personal Empowerment, a nonprofit group that provides one-night seminars at 25 area chapters across the U.S. ($60; 800-443-5425).

6. Consider getting an in-home security system. Check prices though as some are less expensive than others and provide the same level of service. Video cameras that run 24/7 can be purchased at a reasonable price.

7. Start a Neighborhood Watch program. Most criminals case a residence before implementing a plan of action. If you keep everything inconsistent and unpredictable, they will be less likely to choose your neighborhood for criminal activity. Showing criminals that you are not going to tolerate their mischief will scare off most criminals.

8. Communicate effectively with your co-workers, neighbors and family. Make sure that people you know and trust know when you are out of town so that they can look after your belongings or alert someone if suspicious behavior is occurring at your home, office or near your vehicle.

9. Try not to carry large amounts of cash on your person. Keep a simple dollar amount in the event of emergencies.

10. Most important. Get to know your neighbors. Familiarize yourself with your surroundings. And never be afraid to seek assistance when necessary.

I hope the above information keeps you safe and well protected in all your ventures.

All the best, Rebecca Keeney

www.rebeccakeeney.com