Robberies are a quick way for the criminal to make money. The definition of robbery is when someone steals or takes anything of value from you, against your will, by using force, intimidation or violence. It is under the same conditions with the intent to deprive you of your property permanently. Robberies are commonly classified by the means employed, such as armed robbery, or the place of offense, such as bank robbery.

Burglary Versus Robbery

A burglary is not a robbery. A burglary is when someone uses force to enter a home or business, with the intent of stealing your property or committing some other felony. It is not necessary for the theft or felony to take place; the burglary is committed at the moment of the breaking and entering.

Your home or business may be burglarized, but when you are personally victimized you have also suffered a robbery.

Have a Plan

Some people take foolish risks and some of them lose. If a robber threatens you with a gun, your chances of safely disarming him or her is small. To be prepared, your best protection lies in thinking ahead, "What would I do if this happened to me?" If you don't have a plan you may panic or do something to cause the robber to panic and hurt you.

How Can I Protect Myself?

• Be aware of your surroundings. Walk with a purpose, head up, and looking around. Stay in lighted areas at night. The robber doesn't want to be seen.
• Stay with the crowd - there is safety in numbers.
• Women should carry their wallet in their pocket, not their purse.
• If you carry a purse, carry it close to your body, like a football player carries a football. Do not place the strap across your body or over your shoulder. When the robber grabs your purse, you may be pulled along with the robber until the strap breaks and you are injured.
• Don't leave a purse on a counter or in a shopping cart unattended.
• Be cautious when wearing "flashy" jewelry.
• Notify the police of strangers who are hanging around your home, apartment or place of business for no apparent reason.
• Take the profit out of robbery by not carrying large sums of money, or credit cards on your person whenever possible.
• Vary your routine - don't do the same thing at exactly the same time every day.
• Be aware of people around you when you are using your automatic teller machine (ATM) card. When possible, use an ATM that is located inside a business such as a grocery store.
• Have your pay, social security, or retirement checks directly deposited into your bank account.
• While driving, keep your vehicle doors locked.
• If you are walking and a vehicle is following you, reverse directions or cross the street.
• If someone acts suspiciously, looks at you closely or follows you, head for bright lights and people and call the police.