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Crime Prevention for Senior Citizens
The senior citizen
population is the fastest growing population in the country. Surveys show that
persons over age 65 are victims of crime far less frequently than younger
people. But many senior citizens are so afraid of crime that they shut
themselves up in their homes and rarely go out. Isolating ourselves behind
locked doors only makes it easier for criminals to work in the
neighborhood. You can reduce opportunities for criminals to strike by being
alert and careful, and by following these tips.
When You Are Out...
1. Don't carry a purse if you can avoid it. If you must, hold it close to
your body-don't let it dangle.
2. Never carry a wallet in your back pocket. Put it in an inside jacket
pocket or front pocket instead.
3. Try not to wait alone at deserted bus stops. If you can, walk to the
next stop where others may be waiting also.
4. When using the bus or other public transportation, sit near the driver
if possible.
5. Don't overburden yourself with packages and groceries that obstruct your
view and make it difficult to react.
6. Always have your car or house key in hand as you approach your vehicle
or home.
When You Are At Home...
1. Keep your doors locked at all times, even when you're in the house. Use
deadbolt locks on exterior doors.
2. If you live alone, don't advertise it. Use only your first initial in
phone books, directories, and apartment lobbies.
3. Get to know your neighbors and keep their phone numbers in case of
emergency.
4. Work out a "buddy" system with a friend to check on each other
daily. Many communities have programs where police call every day to check
if residents need assistance.
5. If you arrive home and suspect a stranger is inside, do not go inside.
Leave quietly and call the police - your safety should always come first.
Protect Your Money
1. If you receive checks in the mail regularly, arrange instead for them to
be deposited directly in your bank account. The Social Security
Administration and most pension funds offer this service.
2. Avoid carrying large sums of money. If you must, have a friend accompany
you.
3. Don't sign a check or contract until you are sure you know the details
and it is for a legitimate reason. Don't be afraid to delay a signing or to
say 'no!'
4. Don't keep large sums of money in your home.
Don't Be Conned
If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is! Watch for these schemes:
1. The Pigeon Drop - The swindlers claim they have found a large sum of
money and offer to share it with you. They ask you to put up some
"good faith" money before you get in on the deal. That is the
last you will see of your money. You are left with nothing but phony
instructions on how to collect your share of the "found" cash.
2. The Bank Examiner - a professional-looking person tells you he is a bank
official and needs your help in the investigation of a dishonest teller. He
asks you to withdraw cash from your savings account and give the money to
him so he can check the serial numbers. You do what he asks, and you never
see him or your money again.
3. Home Repairs - Never accept an unsolicited "free" inspection
of your furnace, roof, air conditioner, or anything else in your home. And
never leave inspectors alone when they are in your home. Don't give them an
opportunity to tamper with your home or appliances.
4. Buying at the Door - Watch for gimmicks or so-called "free"
gift offers. When sales people call, wait, don't buy today. If it's
legitimate, they'll come back tomorrow. In the meantime, check out the
company with your local Consumer Affairs Office or Better Business Bureau.
If You Are A Victim...
1. Don't attempt to resist. You might get injured. Sit down, even on the
sidewalk, so you won't get knocked down. Scream and make noise.
2. Never pursue a criminal. Call the police immediately.
3. If you have been swindled or suspect fraud, contact your local police
department. Otherwise, crooks will continue to con innocent citizens such
as you.
4. Make an effort to get an accurate description of a criminal-remember
things such as age, race, complexion, body build, clothing, height and
weight, hair, eyes, or unusual features.
5. Contact your local victim assistance agency to help you deal with the
trauma that all crime victims experience. Many agencies have specialized
programs for senior citizens.
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