According to the Department of Justice, there were just over 400,000 robberies in the U.S. in 2009. That’s about 133 for every 100,000 in the population. In nearly 60% of those robberies, some sort of dangerous weapon was used. Would you know what to do if you were one of the victims?
Violent Crime
Don’t fool yourself. Even if there’s no gun involved, robbery is a violent crime. It’s based on fear and intimidation. That’s why the severity of the crime isn’t solely judged on the value of what’s taken, but how the robber threatens the victim. It can be a horrifying experience, but with a few tips you can increase your chances of coming out of it unharmed.
Don’t Resist
That ring or watch might be really important to you, but nothing - not a single material thing - is worth your life. If someone tries rob you, do not resist. Give them what they want. They don’t want to hang around any longer than they need to and the faster you comply, the better.
Don’t Volunteer Info
You’re going to be crazy nervous, but don’t babble. Don’t volunteer any information that the robber didn’t ask for. Listen carefully to what they say. Don’t try to control the situation. Remain as calm as you can and answer questions only if they’re asked.
Follow Directions
Do what they say. Do not try to argue or bargain. Just comply with their instructions.
Avoid Sudden Movements
Your nerves are going to be jangled, but try to stay as calm as you can. Do not make any sudden moves. The robber is going to be tense and excitable, don’t give them any reason to be more nervous and react badly.
Be Observant
Your best defense in a robbery is the power of observation. Try to avoid eye contact, but mentally make note of what they say and how they look. Be as observant as you can. Note their clothing, tattoos, hair and skin color, height, manner of speaking-- everything you can remember. If they use a car to get away, note the color, make and model of the car and the license plate number. Every detail you can remember will help the police apprehend them.
Report the Crime
Call the police. The first few minutes after a crime are crucial. The sooner you call, the better the chance the police can catch the criminal and keep someone else from becoming a victim.
Make Notes
Write down everything you can remember. Your adrenaline will be pumping and it will be easy to forget details that can be important. Get it all down on paper while it’s still fresh in your mind.