Personal Safety

When Walking

  • Avoid 'autopilot' - pay attention to your surroundings.
  • Look up, look around and avoid looking down at your phone.
  • Walk with purpose and confidence.
  • If wearing headphones, make sure you are still able to hear outside noises. 

When on Transit

  • The things thieves are looking for are: computers, phones, jewelry, and valuables.
  • Keep all personal belongings close by. Keep your backpack, purse, shopping bag, packages, etc., in your lap, on your arm, or between your feet -- not by themselves on an empty seat. If standing in a crowded bus or train, consider moving your backpack around so you can see it. 
  • Stay alert and avoid falling asleep. If you are reading, remember to look up frequently. 
  • If there is a problem on the bus or train, notify the driver and/or call 9-1-1.

Robbery and Theft Prevention

  • Carry your ID and keys in separate locations.
  • Don't display valuable items (e.g., iPods, iPhones, cash), when walking to and from your destination.
  • Keep bags close to your body. 
  • Put your phone away; only use it if you really need to.  After you're done, put it away again. Password protect and enable GPS locator features on your phone.
  • Write down the make model & serial # of the phone and keep that info in a safe place.
  • If you wear necklaces or other valuable jewelry, consider wearing them underneath your clothing rather than prominently displayed. 
  • When using an ATM, choose one located in a well-lit, busy area like inside a grocery store. Put your cash and card away before leaving.
  • Never display large sums of cash and don't carry more cash than is necessary.

Things to Consider

  • If you have an uncomfortable feeling - listen to it.  Don't be afraid to cross the street, go into a nearby business, or ask someone for help.
  • Think about lighting - if walking at night, stick to well-lit areas.
  • Plan your route to avoid uninhabited parks, parking lots, garages, alleys, etc. 

If Someone Confronts You

  • If a car follows you, don't approach it. Instead, turn and walk in the opposite direction.
  • If someone demands your wallet or phone, it's always safer to hand it over than to risk injury.
  • If someone tries to grab you, make a scene. Scream, kick, fight. Do what you can to get away. Make noise. Yell "Help! Police!"

Police

Sue Rahr, Interim Chief of Police
Address: 610 5th Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98104-1900
Mailing Address: PO Box 34986, Seattle, WA, 98124-4986
Phone: (206) 625-5011
Contact Us

Newsletter Updates

Subscribe

Sign up for the latest updates from Police

The Seattle Police Department (SPD) prevents crime, enforces laws, and supports quality public safety by delivering respectful, professional, and dependable police services. SPD operates within a framework that divides the city into five geographical areas called "precincts".