Avoid becoming a victim this Australia Day

Leading authority on high-risk violent offenders, Murdoch senior lecturer Guy Hall is warning people to be more vigilant when protecting themselves against crime this summer.

Traditionally there's an increase in aggressive crime over summer as offenders and victims cross paths at public events such as the LotteryWest Skyworks.

"In summer offenders and potential victims come into contact more often which leads to opportunistic crime and people tend to drink more, increasing the incidence of violent crime," Mr Hall said.

"People also tend to leave their houses open to cool them during the summer months, leading to an increase in burglary."

Mr Hall supports the decision to ban alcohol at this year's LotteryWest Skyworks.

"Banning alcohol at the event is an excellent idea and it should reduce crime." Mr Hall said.

"The success of the ban will depend on how much people abide by it - if they look for alternative strategies, such as sneaking in alcohol or taking drugs before they arrive, it may not work."

His advice to patrons of the event is not to engage with a likely potential offender.

"People that commit violent crimes have problems controlling their emotions and are more attuned to threats to their self-esteem," Mr Hall said.

"A heated exchange over something small, like someone knocking over another person's drink, can quickly escalate from name calling to physical violence.

"My advice is not to retaliate - if someone annoys you with their behaviour, ignore it and let it go, or remove yourself from that location."

Often young women are at risk of becoming victims of violent crime.  Mr Hall suggests they remain vigilant at all times and avoid making themselves vulnerable by getting drunk or walking around alone late at night.