Just under half of personal robberies involve cell phones and accessories. The Winnipeg Police has put together this video to provide you with some tips on how to avoid becoming a target.

Personal robberies are crimes of opportunity, so the video focuses on preventing those opportunities.

Would be thieves are often attracted to nice things and the ease of opportunity for a crime to be committed.

Not only should you not advertise that you have expensive personal items, such as headphones, they can affect how aware you are of your surroundings. If you must wear headphones or earbuds, don’t drown out all of the background noise. You should be able to hear if someone is running up behind you.

With the increased use of phones and handheld devices, such as iPads and iPods, these have become a common item stolen in a robbery. It's less tempting for a thief when these items are out of sight.

If you carry a purse or bag, don't wear the strap across your body. If someone were to grab it from behind, you could be dragged. The thief may also think you are resisting which could escalate the situation.

Also, never wrap the strap around your wrist-, as it could cause injury if a thief tries to grab it.

Some additional key tips are to walk in well-lit, populated areas. Avoid dangerous shortcuts such as low lit areas, car parks and quiet green spaces. If you see a group of people ahead of you that make you feel uncomfortable, cross the street. Follow your instincts. Walk with your head up, make brief eye contact and be confident as you walk. The largest number of personal robberies occur downtown -especially at night- walking with another person also helps reduce your risk.

Should you become the victim of a personal robbery, remember that your property can be replaced: it's not worth getting hurt over. Do not make any sudden movements that may be taken as a threat. Most people who cooperate with a robber are not hurt.
Once you are in a safe area, get help as soon as possible. Also, try to remember as much detail as you can to report the crime.

Tracking crime trends allows us to deploy resources, making your neighbourhood safer.

Be alert and stay safe!

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