Recently the Embassy has noted an increase in reported criminal incidents against foreign citizens, including Americans, in Kyiv. This highlights the continued importance of maintaining high standards of personnel security and safety. Security experts advise that we can influence what happens to us by exercising good judgment in our daily activities, such as avoiding risky situations, changing our routines, and maintaining a low profile. Here are a few important things to keep in mind.

• Utilize residential security features. Lock your door every time it is opened or closed. It is just as important to lock your door when you are inside your home as it is when you are outside. Only open the door for someone you know or are expecting. Have a home emergency plan.
• Be sensitive to surveillance. Criminals almost always conduct some type of surveillance. To the extent possible, avoid establishing a pattern in the routes or times of your movements. Unpredictability is one of your best weapons. Before leaving your home or office, check up and down the street for suspicious cars or people. Try to notice if you are being watched or followed.
• Be alert while in public. By simply looking around in a natural way and walking with an upright and determined stride, you present the image that you are aware of your surroundings and are probably a “hard target.” In most cases, the criminal will look for an easier target. Criminals tend to prey on those who appear preoccupied or timid.
• Be proactive in your approach to personal security. Think about safe places not only within your home, but also along common routes of travel where you know you can go during an emergency. Some examples of safe places are a friend’s house, a police or fire station. A public or commercial establishment is also an option. Avoid remote or isolated locations.
• Be mentally prepared to react. Have a sound and realistic plan in mind ahead of time when you notice suspicious people or potential problems. Whether your plan is to leave the area quickly, to call for help, to cooperate, or to fight off the attacker when you believe that you have no other safe option, deciding beforehand about how you will react to an attack will help to reduce panic and focus your reaction. Carry a cell phone and ensure that emergency contact names and numbers are current.

Be sure to speak to your children, family, and friends about these and similar security precautions. If you have any questions concerning this advice, please contact the American Citizens Services unit of the U.S. Embassy at (+38 044) 490-4422 during working hours and U.S. Embassy Duty Officer at (+38 044) 490-4000 during non-working hours.