Living in Mountain View, we are fortunate to have few violent crimes. Most people who experience crime here experience property crimes.
Rape, murder and assault are low-frequency crimes. See Crime Statistics. These statistics include attempts, not only completed crimes. Assault includes many minor complaints, such as spitting on a person, which involve little or no physical injury.
Violence Prevention
Random attacks by strangers are very frightening, but are the least common violent crimes. Most violence involves people who know each other, rather than attacks by strangers. This includes domestic violence and most crimes against children. Many of us don't want to face this, because it means we have some responsibility in avoiding violent encounters. However, it also gives us more opportunities to reduce our risk.
Being able to reduce the risk doesn't mean violence is the victim's fault. It just means you can reduce the likelihood that it will happen to you.
Trust Your Intuition
One of the best ways to protect yourself is to trust your intuition. Sometimes fear happens for what seems to be no reason. If you take the time to figure it out, it may be too late. Respect your fear enough to listen and act on it, without second-guessing yourself.
Choose Your Friends Wisely
Avoid the company of people who are cavalier about violence or personal safety, play with weapons, use excessive drugs or alcohol, and act out physically when upset. Learn to talk your way out of confrontations. Recognize the signs of escalating violence in relationships, then get out and get help. Pay attention and ask questions if your child begins avoiding a family member or friend.
Don't Be an Easy Victim
Many violent perpetrators aren't seeking the perfect victim, they are seeking the perfect opportunity. Simple safety measures around your home, car, or when you're walking outdoors can make you a difficult target. Use common sense. Don't walk alone late at night. Ask a friend to escort you to your car, then drive them to their location.
 Personal Safety Tips
| 1. | Don't walk alone at night. | | 2. | Be aware of your surroundings. | | 3. | Carry a cell phone. | | 4. | Protect valuables, credit cards and money.
Carry only what you need with you.
Don't provide account or personal info hastily. | | 5. | If someone is following you.
Go to nearest police or fire station.
Or public area (i.e. shopping center). |
More tips:
Crime Prevention
Home Security
Brochures |  | Mortality Stats
Leading Causes of Death| Rank | Cause | | 1 | Heart Disease | | 2 | Cancer | | 3 | Stroke | | 4 | Respiratory Diseases | | 5 | Accidents | | 6 | Flu & Pneumonia | | 7 | Diabetes | | 8 | Alzheimer's Disease | | 9 | Liver Disease | | 10 | Suicide | | 11 | Hypertension | | 12 | Assault (Homicide) |
Note: Homicide accounts for 2,481 of 239,325 deaths, or approx. 1%.
Source: CA Department of Health Services, 2003 Vital Statistics.
If you are a victim of violence:- Leave area where crime occurred.
- Call 9-1-1 ASAP, or have someone call for you.
- Get medical attention.
- Contact friends/family for support.
- Allow photos/evidence to be taken to help prevent future crimes.
- Contact Victim/Witness Assistance Program or Rape Crisis Hotline (below).
If someone you love is a victim:- Give support—emotional & logistical. Put your own feelings aside.
- Help complete steps for victims (above).
Victims' Resources
Victim/Witness Assistance Program
408/295-2656 • Email
Rape Crisis Hotline
408/287-3000 (24 hours)
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