On Air: Fukuoka City Information/2016.07.23(Sat)/09:00～

Fukuoka seeks to be a safe place to live in, and that's why Fukuoka city recently set August as Crime Prevention Month. Take the month of August to think and act in ways that deter crime.

Last year, there were 20,033 instances of crime reported within Fukuoka city. These crimes took place right around us in our daily lives, and included things such as bicycle and motorbike theft and sexual assault. Together, the recognition of "Neighborhood crime prevention" and "Self-protection" helps make our local environment less vulnerable to crime and deters criminals.

Forty percent of the crimes reported within Fukuoka city concerned bicycle and motorbike theft. And, of the bikes stolen, sixty percent of them were reported to be locked. Also, motorbike thefts were not just from public parking facilities, but also occurred in residential housing areas. To stop bicycle and motorbike theft, it is suggested owners use double chains to secure their vehicles. Vehicles left on roadsides often become the target of theft. Please follow parking regulations and park in authorized, staffed parking facilities.

There have been incidents of purse and bag snatching in Fukuoka city, too. In particular, these crimes usually target women. Many cases involve purse or bag snatchers riding motorbikes. There are several things you can do to help from becoming a victim. When walking with a bag, don’t carry it street-side, but rather on your inside shoulder, opposite the street. When carrying a bag in a bicycle basket, make sure to secure it with a bicycle cargo net. Also, try not to travel along empty or dark streets.

In addition, last year saw 217 instances of sexual crimes reported. Approximately half of the victims were in their 20s. The most common location in which sexual crimes occurred was on the street. Perpetrators followed their target along busy streets until they turned off onto small, local side streets to commit the crimes.

Also, don't think you are safe because you live in a building that has auto-locks, or because you live on a high floor. There were cases where people were pushed into their own homes the moment they opened their front doors. Check to see if people are around before unlocking your door, and be sure to lock it immediately after you are inside. Also, there were instances where people were going to be attacked, but who were saved when their assailant saw their victim had a help siren and ran away. Hold help sirens in plain view while walking to send a clear warning signal to criminals. Criminals are all over the place, and look for the unprepared to attack. People listening to music or using smartphones while walking alone on uncrowded streets make easy targets. Try not to engage in such activities. To nip crime in the bud, watch out for yourself, send clear signals that you are prepared for an assault, and take proper precautions. Doing this together will help make an environment that discourages crime.