Houston, Texas is the fourth most populous city in the United States, with a population of over 2.3 million people. Despite its size and diversity, Houston has a relatively high crime rate compared to other major cities. In 2019, there were over 20,000 reported incidents of violent crime, including murder, rape, and aggravated assault.
As a resident of Houston, or even as a visitor, it's important to be aware of the potential dangers and take steps to protect yourself. Here are a few tips for staying safe:
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you notice someone following you or acting suspiciously, cross the street or enter a public place.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items with you.
- Keep your phone charged and easily accessible, in case you need to call for help.
- Use well-lit, busy streets and sidewalks when walking at night.
- Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.
If you do find yourself in a dangerous situation, it's important to stay calm and take action to protect yourself. If someone is trying to attack you, it's best to fight back and make as much noise as possible to attract attention. If you're able to escape, run to a safe place and call the police immediately.
When describing the criminal activities during an attack to the police, it's important to be as specific as possible. Try to remember the attacker's physical characteristics, clothing, and any distinguishing features such as tattoos or scars. If there were any witnesses, get their contact information and pass it along to the police.
But protecting yourself and assisting law enforcement is not only about being aware of potential dangers and taking action in a crisis. It's also about being proactive and helping to keep your community safe. One way to do this is by getting involved with the FACES (Facial Analysis, Comparison, and Evaluation Services) Certification Community.
The FACES Certification Community is a program that trains individuals to become certified FACES consultants and assist law enforcement in identifying suspects. As a certified FACES consultant, you'll be able to help officers quickly and accurately identify suspects, which can lead to faster arrests and safer communities.
If you're interested in becoming a FACES consultant, visit the FACES Certification Community website for more information. Together, we can help keep Houston safe and make our city a better place to live.
