Police statistics show that robberies in Evanston have increased about 25 percent.

Since the beginning of Fall Quarter, nine robbery cases have been reported. One of these incidents involved a Northwestern student. Police said they do not think the robberies are connected.

“As of now, year-to-date, our robberies have gone up maybe 25 percent,” said Cmdr. Michael Perry of Evanston Police Department.

It is hard to say whether or not that increase is significant, he said.

“If we have one robbery it worries us,” Perry said. “We want to be a crime-free place if we can. That is the ultimate dream. Unfortunately, it is not reality.”

The increase in robberies has made every officer “a little more alert,” and citizens are encouraged to be the same, Perry said.

Perry reiterated the need to be safe when walking alone or at night.

Walk in well-lit and busy areas, he said. Perry also suggests walking in groups, wearing shoes and clothing fit for running and carrying a whistle.

If approached, don’t fight back, Perry said. Give the person whatever he is demanding.

Also, try to make a “visual notation” about the attacker, Perry said. This can be done by picking out a physical feature that really distinguishes the person, such as a tattoo, scar or an oddly shape nose, he said.

Often, descriptions victims give police are too vague to be of use, Perry said.

“An attacker can’t be identified by his clothing,” Perry said, because clothing easily can be changed.