New York City Fire Fighters from the Bronx went above and beyond their job description to capture a thief moments after he committed a crime. After fighting a fire, a teenage girl ran up to firefighters from FDNY Engine Company 90, and told them that a man ripped a gold chain off of her neck and pushed her to the ground. The firefighters radioed the details to their teammates on Ladder Company 41, who were on a truck parked down the street, in the direction that the thief had run off. Two firefighters spotted the thief immediately, and when he tried to bolt, they caught and held him until the police arrived.

This New York teenage girl was very lucky that she wasn’t seriously hurt, and that the quick-thinking firefighters were able to catch the thief. Personal safety is important, and even if the thief is caught, the ordeal of being mugged is very traumatic. People don’t wear home security systems, so many muggers get away with their crimes.   Here are some tips to keep you safe when you go out:

• Don’t wear flashy jewelry or show off expensive brand name labels. A person wearing brand name clothes is more likely to be carrying cash or have an expensive phone and music player. Tone it down.
• Stay on the main streets, near other people.  It may be tempting to take a shortcut through an alley, but it is much less safe.
• Keep an eye on wireless security cameras. Another benefit of the main streets is the security systems that many stores have in place. It helps to protect you because no thief wants to be recorded committing a crime.
• Go out with a buddy, or a group of people. If you plan to head out at night, remember that there is safety in numbers. Stay with your group of trusted friends. Even if you just need to grab a snack from the nearby market, if it is late at night, ask a friend or neighbor to go with you.
• Never refuse a mugger. You don’t know if they have a weapon, or are on drugs, and not thinking clearly. Always hand over your wallet or purse. It could save your life.
• Carry your cash and license on your body in case of a mugging. Don’t be embarrassed to tuck it in your bra, or in your shoe. If you do get mugged, you’ll still have your ID, and a few dollars to get home.
• Get self defense training. You need to be able to protect yourself if you are personally attacked. It could save your life.

These FDNY heroes will be receiving a well-deserved award for their heroism.  Their actions have made the streets safer for everyone.