Assaults & Robberies

The use or threatened use of violence is a serious crime that should be reported to police immediately. Keep your personal safety top of mind by staying alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.

Some prevention tips include:

• Walk with confidence. Keep your head up and know where you are going.
• Limit distractions. Store mobile phones and other valuables out of sight and remove your headphones.
• Call a friend. Let someone know where you are going or ask someone to walk with you.
• Stay visible. Stick to well-lit areas, sidewalks and don’t wear dark clothing at night.
• Take only your essentials. Carry only the necessary identification, money, or cards that you need. Have keys ready if you are heading to your car or house.
• Carry a whistle or personal safety alarm so you can alert others if you are attacked.
• Trust your instincts. If you think someone is following you, call 9-1-1, and then find the nearest place of safety.
• If someone tries to rob you, give up your property. Do not engage in the altercation as it increases your chance of getting physically harmed.
• If a stranger tries to grab you, do everything possible to prevent them from pulling you away. Fight back and do whatever you can to draw the attention of other who can assist.

Try to take note of what the suspect(s) looks like and their direction of travel. Physical descriptors such as: height/weight, clothing, and visible markings like scars, tattoos or piercings can help the police in later identifying the suspect. Call police as soon as it is safe to do so.

Safety in your vehicle

• Keep your vehicle doors locked, even when you are inside.
• Have your car keys ready before you reach the door.
• If someone approaches your vehicle, drive off if it is safe to do so. Otherwise use the horn to draw attention from others.
• If you are threatened with a weapon or physical violence, give over your vehicle. It is not worth risking your life over.

Personal Robberies

Police are seeing an increase in personal robberies connected to online marketplace buy/sell transactions, especially of high value items like mobile phones or gaming consoles. Surrey RCMP Robbery Unit recommends these tips if you plan to meet an unknown person to buy or sell an item:

• Insist on a public meeting place during the day, such as local businesses with regular foot traffic.
• Gather as much information as possible so you know who you’re dealing with, such as their full name and cell phone number.
• Do not meet in a secluded place or invite strangers into your home.
• Only meet during daylight hours or in a well-lit and heavily populated area.
• Be especially careful when buying or selling high value items.
• Tell a friend or family member where you’re going and when you’re meeting the buyer/seller.
• Take your cell phone and a friend along to accompany you.
• Always trust your instincts while arranging a meeting.

Some additional tips for preventing mobile phone theft include:

• Avoid using your phone on the street in full view. If you have to use it, be discreet.
• Record the serial number of your phone and keep it in a safe place.
• Consider software that will remotely locate your phone using built-in GPS.
• In the event you are robbed of your phone report it to police immediately and contact your network provider so they can disconnect and prevent any unauthorized calls or texts.
• If you are purchasing a phone privately, check the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number on the phone at www.protectyourdata.ca to ensure it has not been reported lost or stolen in Canada.