Elder Safety

Elder Safety Crime Prevention At HOME - Always keep your doors and windows locked. - Install dead-bolt locks in all doors - Keep your home well lit at night, inside and out, and keep your curtains closed at night - Install a peephole in your front door so you can see callers without opening the door - Ask for proper identification and the purpose of the visit from delivery people or strangers - Never let a stranger into your home. If a stranger asks to use your telephone, offer to place the call for him - Never give out information over the phone indicating that you are home alone or detailing when you will not be home - Hide your key in a place that is not conspicuous - Report suspicious activities (Call 911) - Do not keep large sums of money or valuables at home While You are OUT - Carry only as much cash as needed - Carry your purse very close to you - don’t dangle it from your arm - Avoid situations and locations that could invite crime - dark alleys, unlit parking lots, etc - Avoid walking alone at night In Your CAR - Keep your gas tank full and your engine properly maintained to avoid breakdowns - Always lock your car door, even when you’re inside and keep your windows rolled up - Lock packages and other valuables in the trunk. Do not leave them on the back seat or on the floor of the car where potential thieves can see them. - Park in well lit areas - When you return to your car, always check the front and back seat before you get in - Never pick up hitchhikers - Avoid driving & parking in isolated places FINANCIAL Tips: - Do not discuss your finances with strangers. - Get to know your bank manager. - Have a will drawn up and notarized by a lawyer who is sensitive to seniors issues. - Arrange to have your pension checks deposited directly into your bank account. - Keep your money in a bank or financial institution, not at home. - If unable to do your own banking, entrust a relative or friend - make this person known to your bank manager/ lawyer/relatives. - Have a person you trust review documents before you sign them. - Do not give either your ATM card or password to anyone. - Set cash withdrawal limits on your account. - Be wary of anyone pressuring you to sell your house. - Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. - Always ask for identification from all solicitors and call their agency for verification. - Don’t commit yourself to purchases or charitable donations over the phone. Ask the caller to mail you the information. - Beware of these lines: once in a lifetime ¨ get rich quick ¨ something for nothing ¨ you must act now. ~