Although most crimes are against property rather than against people, a substantial number of crimes involve robbery, purse snatching or other forms of physical or sexual assault. In order to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of crimes against person, your must be cautions in your home, in your car and on the street.

What can you do to decrease your chances of being assaulted short of locking yourself in the house and not allowing anybody to enter? Several things that don't cost money that are effective and can be learned and practiced by everyone are available.

First, when on the street, don't make yourself a target by dangling your purse from your wrist. A conspicuous display of cash, or a bulging wallet in your back pocket can also make you a target.

If you do carry a purse, hold it tightly because if you are only holding onto it with one finger, the chances are a crook will be holding on to it with five fingers.

While walking on the street, be wise! Stay out of high crime areas and stick to well-lighted and well-traveled parts of town. Avoid walking by doorways, shrubbery and any other dark places where someone might hide. Never carry a weapon. It can easily be turned against you. If you think you are being followed don't go directly home. Head towards the closest well-lighted area immediately and then try to find a store or gas station which is open. Whenever you must walk outside at night, try to take a friend with you. Always act as if you know where you are going or maybe meeting someone. This may serve as a deterrent. While driving, keep doors locked and windows rolled up. Check your car for uninvited passengers before you get into it and always park it in well-lighted areas. Never pick up hitchhikers.

If your car breaks down pull over to the side of the road. Put your hood up, turn on the flashers, and tie a cloth to the antenna. Then get in the car, lock the doors, roll up the windows, and turn the engine off. When someone stops, roll your window down just enough to ask them to phone for help.

Most people lock their doors when they leave home, but it is just as important to lock them when you are at home. The best locks in the world won't do any good if they are not used. Install a peephole in your door and check the identity of all callers, including repairmen, deliverymen, or salespersons. Don't let strangers in to use the phone. Offer to make the call for them. Don't give out information over the phone. Do not give your name or address to any caller and never tell anybody you're home alone. Children and baby sitters should be instructed not to give out information either.

If you live in an apartment house, don't go to the laundry room alone. If you are a woman list only your initial and your last name on the mailbox and in the telephone directory.