There have been numerous armed robberies recently at local businesses, and if you happen to be at the business or at home at the time of an armed robbery; first of all:

• Don't try to be a hero. It's better to lose your money than your life.

• Try to remain calm. Don’t make any sudden movements to upset the robber.

• Consider all firearms to be loaded.

• Follow all directions given by robber.

• Avoid any action that might excite the robber or cause him/her to be violent.

• Be alert to the direction and manner of escape.

• Try to get a good look at the robber so you can describe him later. Get as much information as possible about the suspect(s) and any vehicle involved, including the plate number if at all possible, ONLY if you can do so without exposing yourself to harm.

After an Armed Robbery:

• Call 911 as soon as possible after the robbery. Call immediately, even if you have already activated an alarm. Provide the dispatcher with as much information as possible, and stay on the phone until instructed to hang up.

• Limit access to the area where the crime occurred in case evidence such as fingerprints might be obtained.

• As soon as possible after calling the police, write down a description of the robber(s), weapons used, and the means of escape.