Everyone is responsible for fighting crime, not just the police. You can put into place common sense steps like locking doors, joining in a neighborhood watch, traveling with a friend - all can help prevent crimes to seniors. Often seniors do fear crime more than other citizens, but they actually are less likely to be a victim.
The following tips help you reduce your risk of being a crime victim. These common-sense actions also empower you by building confidence in your ability to protect yourself and be independent:
Your Neighbors - Your First Line of Defense
-Work out a buddy system with a neighbor. Check on each other every day.
-Let neighbors know when you go on a trip so they can watch out for your house or apartment. Return the favor when they go away.
-Join a neighborhood watch group or help organize one.
When You Are Home:
-Lock your doors and windows! Get good locks and use them. Exterior doors-deadbolt lock. Sliding doors-special lock or broom handle in door track. Windows- good lock or pins for all accessible windows.
-Light up your property! Make sure all porches, entrances, and yard are well-lighted. Put timers on your lights for when you come home after dark.
-Use a wide-angle peephole (installed at your height) to identify people who come to the front door.
-Get an alarm that you can put across your driveway to alert you when someone drives in.
-Ask all service and sales people for identification before you let them into your home. You can always call someone's employer for verification.
-Be sensible about keys. Don't put an address tag on your key ring, and don't hide an extra key under a doormat or flower pot.
-Hang up immediately on harassing or obscene phone calls. If the caller persists, call police and the phone company.
-For an extra measure of protection: Don't keep large amounts of cash at home.
-Use Direct Deposit for Social Security or pension checks.
-Call 911 if you need the police, fire, or paramedics.
-Mark valuable property like televisions, VCRs, cameras with an Operation Identification number.
If you suspect a burglar has broken into your home, don't go in. Go to a neighbors and call the 911.
When You Are Out:
-Stay alert and tuned into your surroundings. Don't daydream.
-Go out with a friend whenever possible.
-When you walk- look relaxed and confident.
-Trust your instincts. If something makes you feel unsafe - leave.
-Try carrying a small change purse with only the money or credit cards that you need, instead of a large handbag with straps. Keep your wallet in an inside jacket or front pants pocket.
-Don't burden yourself with packages, and don't wear shoes or clothing that restrict your movements.
-Walk on well-lighted, busy streets. Stay away from vacant lots, alleys, or construction sites.
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