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It isn’t that robbers are around every corner. But they do take us by surprise, and they can target anyone.

The FBI defines robbery as “the taking or attempting to take anything of value under confrontational circumstances from the control, custody, or care of another person by force or threat of force or violence and/or by putting the victim in fear of immediate harm.”

If you are being robbed, most important thing to do in all circumstances is give the robber what he or she wants: don’t risk your life by fighting back. It simply isn’t worth it.

Follow these tips to greatly reduce your risk of being robbed:

• Don’t allow strangers into your home even if they say they’re hurt or need help. Keep the door locked and call the police for them.

• Don’t advertise that you live alone.

• Don’t be afraid to call us to investigate suspicious circumstances, unusual people or strange noises.

• When you move into a new home or _| apartment, change the locks if you own it or ask the manager to change them if you rent.

• Don’t leave notes on your door announcing when you will be home.

• Keep outdoor lights on at night.

• If you arrive home and your door is open or things appear to be out of place, don’t go in. Leave and call 911.