This section includes the following helpful information:
Handling of Suspicious Letters or Packages
If you receive or come in contact with a letter or package that you believe is suspicious in nature, or contains an unknown substance, place the item in a zip-loc style plastic bag and leave the item where you came in contact with it.
If the item is too large to fit in a zip-loc style bag, place it in a plastic garbage bag and seal it.
Wash your hands with soap and water.
Do not bring the letter or package to City Hall or the Fire Department.
Contact the Fire Department at (734) 794-6961 for further instructions on how to handle and dispose of the item.
Safety Tips
Test Your "Street Smarts" IQ
Tips from the National Crime Prevention Council
Do you:
- Jog or walk by yourself early in the morning or late at night when the streets are quiet and deserted ?
- Stuff your purse with cash, keys, credit cards, checkbook-and then leave it wide open on a counter, a desk, the floor ? Put your wallet in your jacket pocket, which you then hang up or throw over a chair ?
- Let your mind wander - thinking about your job, or all the things you have to do - when walking or driving ?
- Think it's a waste of time to lock your car when you'll be back in a few minutes ?
If you answered "yes" to any question, you need to change a few habits. Even if you answered "no" and made a perfect score, read on. Spend a few minutes now to prevent trouble later.
Basic Street Sense:
* Wherever you are - on the street, in an office building or shopping mall, driving, waiting for a bus - stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings.
* Send the message that you're calm, confident, and know where you're going.
* Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, avoid the person or leave.
* Know the neighborhoods where you live and work. Check out the locations of police and fire stations, public telephones, hospitals, restaurants or stores that are open late.
On Foot - Day and Night:
* Stick to well-lighted, well-traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots, or alleys.
* Don't flash large amounts of cash or other tempting targets like jewelry or expensive clothing.
* Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.
* Try to use automated teller machines in the daylight. Have your card in hand.
* Don't wear shoes or clothing that restrict your movements.
* Have your car or house key in hand before you reach the door.
* If you think someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk toward an open store, restaurant, or lighted house. If you're scared, yell for help.
* Have to work late ? Make sure there are others in the building, and ask someone- a colleague or security guard - to walk you to your car or bus stop.
On Wheels:
* Keep your car in good running condition. Make sure there's enough gas to get where you're going and back.
* Always roll up the windows and lock your car, even if you're coming right back. Check inside and out before getting in.
* Avoid parking in isolated areas with little foot or auto traffic. Be especially alert in lots and underground parking garages.
* If you think someone is following you, don't head home. Drive to the nearest police or fire station, gas station, or other open business to get help.
* Don't pick up hitchhikers. Don't hitchhike yourself.
If Someone Tries To Rob You:
* Don't resist. Give up your property, don't give up your life.
* Report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions can help prevent others from being victims.
Telemarketing Fraud
It can be hard to resist. A phone call from a charity seeking desperately needed funds for flood victims, endangered species, or the homeless. A postcard claiming you've won an amazing sweepstakes prize if you'll just call and send an "administrative fee." Or an investment offer giving you an "exclusive" chance to earn potentially enormous profits.
BUT RESIST YOU MUST !
What you can do:
* If a caller asks for your credit card, bank account or Social Security number to verify a free vacation, a prize, or a gift, say "NO" and hang up.
* If you're calling a 900 number in response to an advertisement or something you received in the mail, make sure you know all the charges up front.
* Before you agree to support a charity that calls seeking money, ask for written information about its finances and programs.
Consumer Beware:
The following are possible signs of a fraudulent appeal for your hard-earned dollars:
* High-pressure tactics aimed at forcing a quick decision.
* Demands for "cash only" or special delivery/pick-up of your payment.
* Companies and charities with "copycat" names - e.g. Salvation League instead of Salvation Army.
* Delayed delivery of a product or a prize.
* No risk, high-yield investments.
Feel free to hang up the phone - it's your choice !
We have several types of brochures available from the National Crime Prevention Council. Please call 734-794-6933 or stop by the Ann Arbor Police Department, Crime Prevention Office and pick one up.
- Dealing with gun violence
- Latchkey children: Young children at home alone
- Keeping baby-sitting safe
- Is media violence invading your home?
- Don't lose a friend to drugs
- Making peace-tips on managing conflict
- Talking with your kids about drugs
- Reaching out to victims
- Invest in home security
- Family vacations - Fun and safety
- Street sense is common sense
- Telemarketing fraud
- Crime prevention for people with physical disabilities
- The hidden crime - Domestic violence
- Rape is a crime of violence, not an act of passion
- Never give a con artist an even break
- Don't be an easy mark for a quick rip-off
- Bicycle safety
- Let's be safe at home
We also have speakers that are available to address these issues at your next community meeting. Please call 734-794-6933.