The Lake at Central Park

Here comes the sun
After the darkness of winter, it seems we cannot get enough sun. However, stay out of the mid-day sun – it is the most intense of the day. Apply appropriate sun blocks especially on young children. Wear sunglasses (best are those that block ultraviolet rays) and loose fitting, light colored clothing.

Handling the heat and humidity
When the heat and humidity indexes are high, remember to slow down and take it easy. Other suggestions: keep your room cool by using a fan or air conditioner; take cool showers and baths; when outdoors, shield your head with a hat or cap and try to stay in the shade; and drink plenty of liquids (water and fruit juice are best – avoid alcoholic beverages). If you are taking medication, you are most at risk for heat-related illnesses check with your doctor to see what precautions you should take.

Eat, drink, & be merry

Picnics, barbecues, and beach parties are fun. But remember to properly refrigerate perishable foods. Do not share utensils or food preparation surfaces among meats, fish, and poultry; cook all thoroughly. Never place cooked foods on surfaces where uncooked foods have been. Avoid fatty foods, heavy desserts, gravies, and sauces, but enjoy the fruits and vegetables of the season in meals or as snacks.

Plan your travel route in advance

Whether walking, driving, or taking public transit – plan the trip in advance. Know how to get to your destination by the most direct, heavily traveled and safest route. Bus and subway maps, street maps, and web sites such as MapQuest can be especially helpful.  International travel tips are noted on the U.S. Department of State web-site www.travel.state.gov

 

Carry wallets, handbags, and laptop computers in a secure manner
A wallet should be placed at the bottom or within a zippered compartment of your bag, inside a coat, or in a front pants pocket (the rear pants pocket is the easiest to pick). Carry your handbags close to the body, not dangling by the handle. Place one end of the bag in the palm of your hand and the other in the bend of your elbow. Transport a laptop computer in a backpack or duffel bag so that it is not obvious. Never leave a laptop computer unguarded always store it and other valuable property in a secure location.

Don’t carry large amounts of cash and credit cards
Plan your purchases in advance and carry only the cash and credit cards you'll absolutely need. If you must carry large sums of money, divide the cash between your handbag, pockets, and wallet. Never count your money in public. Remember to get your credit card and receipt back from the salesperson. 
 

Use caution at pay telephones and ATM’s
Be aware of the persons near you when using a pay telephone. Do not place a wallet, handbag, or telephone calling card on any exposed surface, including a shelf under the telephone. Be especially careful when handling the card and entering your account codes.

Use ATM’s during daytime hours. If you must use an ATM at night, find one that is located near a busy intersection. Take a friend with you. Be especially careful when handling the card and entering your PIN number.

A few other tips you should consider:

 

• securely lock home and car doors and be alert if they are left open;

• regularly maintain your car, always keep the gas tank full, and periodically check the condition of the spare tire;

• replace smoke detector batteries annually (on a birthday or important occasion so you remember) and check your fire extinguisher gauge at the same time;

• regularly service air conditioning units and fans;

• don't risk putting on your own fireworks display instead go to one put on by professionals;

• carefully position and closely monitor barbecue grills at all times;

• constantly observe the activity of young children because there are greater opportunities for injury;

• wherever you are walking on the street, shopping in a mall, driving a car or bike, or waiting for a bus or subway stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings; don’t wear headphones, and travel with friends if possible;

• when in parks, travel along well populated pathways, and know the location of park police stations, emergency call boxes, and concession stands;

• where Lyme disease is active, cover up wear long-sleeve shirts, pants, socks, and shoes.

• nurture yourself exercise, enjoy quiet time, support a volunteer organization, and eat balanced meals;

• and help us promote personal safety by sharing these and your own safety tips with family, friends, and neighbors.

Have a safe and fun summer!
These tips were compiled by the NYLS Office of Security & Safety, the Area Police/Private Security Liaison Program (APPL) and NYPD Shield of the New York City Police Department, and the National Crime Prevention Council.