Union-Bulletin

The Colorado Association of Robbery Investigators offers these tips for people who are being robbed:

• Try to stay calm. Don't make any sudden movements to upset the robber.
• Do exactly as you are told. Do not resist!
• Activate your alarm only if you can do so secretly.
• Tell the robber about anything that might surprise him, such as someone who is expected to arrive soon.
• If you have to move or reach, tell the robber what you are going to do and why.
• Try to get a good look at the robber so you can describe him later.
• Don't be a hero. It's better to lose your money than your life.
• Give the robber time to leave.
• Note his direction of travel when he leaves.
• Try to get a description of his vehicle only if you can do so without exposing yourself to harm.
• After the robbery, the association advises:
• Call the police immediately, even if you have already activated the alarm.
• Close the store and lock the door(s) if you have a key.
• Do not discuss the details of the robbery with witnesses or fellow employees.
• Ask any witnesses to stay until police arrive. If they can't, get their names, phone numbers and addresses.
• Do not touch anything that the robber may have touched. Block off areas where the robber was, if necessary.
• Try to recall as much as you can about the robber's appearance, speech and mannerisms. Make notes.
• Step outside the store when the police arrive so that they'll know the robber is gone and you are safe.
• Let the police answer inquiries from the news media.
• Do not discuss the amount of money taken with anyone other than police.