Senior citizen safety tips

GRIFFIN POLICE Senior Citizen Safety Tips

Unfortunately, criminals sometimes target senior citizens. Reduce the chances of becoming a victim of:
Burglary
Frauds and Scams
Mental and physical abuse
Fire Hazards

Home Security & Burglary Prevention
Most burglaries occur during daylight hours and many intruders gain access through open or poorly secured doors and windows.
To reduce your chance of becoming a victim of a burglary:

Trim trees and shrubs to eliminate hiding places for thieves.

Keep the exterior of your home well lit, especially where there are doors and windows. Install outside lights equipped with motion detectors to deter burglars and alert others of potential criminal activity.

Make it difficult for an intruder to enter. Be certain your locks are functioning properly, all doors have deadbolts, and use them. Make sure windows are locked and cannot be forced open, especially those not in use. Secure the basement and attic windows.

Create and maintain safe and adequate escape routes in every room. Know how to get out fast.

When away from home, use timers on inside lamps and radios to create the impression of an occupied home. When returning home, give the house a brief visual survey before entering. If anything looks suspicious, call 9-1-1 from another location.

When returning home, give the house a brief visual survey before entering. If anything looks suspicious, call 9-1-1 from another location.
If you have an answering machine your message should not indicate that you live alone. Use the phrase “We are unable to answer your call at this time.”
Form a neighborhood watch program and look out for one another.
Report suspicious activity to the police!

Ask for photo ID from service or delivery people before letting them in. If you have any reason to doubt call the company to verify before letting them in.

Call 9-1-1 if needed!

Be Alert When Shopping or Out in the Community:
Don't carry credit cards you won't need or large amounts of cash.
Go with family, friends, or a group if possible rather than being alone.
Carry purses close to the body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.
Keep all car doors locked at all times. Be particularly alert in parking lots or garages for people just "hanging around". Park near an entrance or exit if possible, there is more traffic at those locations.
Use direct deposit for any checks you receive regularly if possible (e.g. Social Security, retirement payments).
If someone or something makes you feel uneasy trust your instincts and leave the area. If necessary move to where there are large groups of people.
Never carry your Social Security card in your wallet or purse. If your wallet or purse is lost or stolen these can possibly be used in an identity fraud.

Elder Abuse:
Being hurt or controlled may mean you are being abused. There are many types of elder abuse:
Physical
Sexual
Psychological
Financial
Neglect

Watch for these indicators of abuse…
Injuries such as cuts, bruises, difficulty walking or sitting can be symptoms of physical or sexual abuse.
Withdrawn or fearful behavior can be associated with psychological abuse.
Family members or friends, suddenly involved in decisions pertaining to money matters may mean trouble.
Poor provision of nutritional and hygiene needs can point to neglect.

How to take action:
Help yourself and help others who are less likely to protect themselves. If in doubt notify the Department of Family and Children Services, law enforcement in your area, or call 9-1-1.

Frauds & Scams
Every year billions of dollars are lost to fraudulent activities. Scams are conducted over the telephone, by mail, the Internet and door to door. Often, you will be pressured into donating or purchasing right now! Prizes, vacations, charities, club memberships, or investments can be the front used by con artists.

Legitimate organizations do not require immediate response and should provide you with information in the mail.
Take your time and have others review information with you.
Never give your credit card number over the phone unless you initiate the call and know whom you are calling.
If someone will not let you get off the phone, hang up.
Familiarize yourself with an organization by asking for references.
Ask a lot of questions.
Be cautious of anyone claiming, "You will never get another opportunity like this."

If the offer seems too good to be true, it probably is!
Don't let anyone rush you into signing anything - a policy, contract, or agreement. Read these documents over carefully and have someone you trust check it over.
Beware of anyone claiming to represent companies, consumer organizations, or government agencies that offer to recover lost money from fraudulent telemarketers for a fee. As a twist on this same theme, cons sometimes pretend to be officials trying to "catch" a thief with your assistance. Never go along with these schemes.

Fire Safety
Protect yourself & your home from fires with these helpful tips:

Test your smoke detectors once a month to make sure they work. Replace smoke detector batteries once a year.
Keep a fire extinguisher and carbon monoxide detector on every floor in the house.
Plan and practice a home fire drill. Make a map showing the exits from every room.
Obtain an escape ladder for bedrooms located on the 2nd floor or higher. Make sure windows can be opened easily from the inside if needed for escape.
Make sure burners are turned off after use.
Keep and store flammable materials in a safe place.
Eliminate fire hazards in your home, i.e. piles of paper, smoking in bed, etc.

Trust your instincts! If you suspect trouble, call 911 and ask for assistance.

Investigator Bryan Clanton Corporal, Office of Professional Standards Griffin Police Department 770-229-6450 ext. 504 [email_address]

Senior citizen safety tips

by City of Griffin on Aug 19, 2010

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