Be alert when out and about
- Go with friends or family, not alone.
- Carry your purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside front coat or front pants pocket.
- Don’t carry credit cards you don’t need or large amounts of cash.
- Use direct deposit for Social Security and other regular checks.
- Keep car doors locked. Be alert in parking lots and garages. Have your keys handy; park near an entrance.
- Sit close to the driver or near the exit when on a bus or train.
- If someone makes you feel uneasy, trust your instincts and leave.
Make your Home Safe and Secure
- Install good locks on doors and windows. Use them! Don’t hide keys in mailboxes and planters or under doormats. Instead, leave an extra set of keys with a neighbor or friend.
- Ask for photo identification from service or delivery people before letting them in. If you are the least bit worried, call the company to verify.
- Be sure your street address number is large, clear of obstruction, and well lighted so police and other emergency personnel can find your home quickly.
- Consider a home alarm system that provides emergency monitoring for burglary, fire and medical emergencies.
Watch Out for Con Artists
- Don’t fall for anything that sounds too good to be true – a free vacation, sweepstakes prizes, cures for cancer and arthritis, a low-risk, high–yield investment scheme.
- Never give out your credit card, phone card, Social Security, or bank account number to anyone over the phone. It’s illegal for telemarketers to ask for these numbers to verify a prize or gift.
- Don’t let anyone rush you into signing anything – an insurance policy, a sales agreement, or contract. Read it carefully and have someone you trust check it over.
- Beware of individuals claiming to represent companies, consumer organizations or government agencies that offer to recover lost money from fraudulent telemarketers for a fee.
- If you’re suspicious, check it out with the police, the Better Business Bureau or you local consumer protection office. You can also call the National Consumers League Fraud Information Center at 800-876-7060.
Get Involved in the Community
- Report any crime or suspicious activities to law enforcement.
- Join a Neighborhood Watch to help and look out for each other.
- Work to change conditions that hurt your neighborhood.
- Seek out volunteer opportunities.
Call Crime Prevention at 502-921-1000 for further information.