Here are 10 Crime Prevention Tips For Senior Citizens:
1. Be sure the locking hardware on your home is sufficient, and works properly.
• Door lock types vary. Ask a professional which type is appropriate for your home.
• Screws securing strike plates should be replaced with ones long enough to grab framing wood
• Horizontal track bars should be used on sliding doors
• Window hardware should be replaced with security hardware or supplemented with vertical track bars
• Peep holes should be installed, and should be positioned so you can see out of them without obstructions
2. If you have a security system on your home, make sure it works properly and use it regularly.
• Even when you’re out during the day
• Battery back-ups will keep the system working even when power is lost
• Cellular back-up maintain a connection to a monitoring station even when phone lines are out
3. Don’t leave valuables in plain sight or in easily predictable locations within your home.
• Not on the dresser top
• Don’t leave expensive items in jewelry boxes
• Not in your sock or underwear drawer
4. Install, maintain, and use proper lighting to deter nighttime crime
• Use exterior lighting over all entrances
• Mount the lighting high enough to prevent tampering
• Use timers and light sensors- don’t rely on turning lights on manually every night
• Place interior lights on timers so your home looks occupied
5. Maintain foliage according to the 3’/7’ rule for better visibility- not higher than 3’ or lower than 7’
• Especially near entrances
• Especially near walkways to home
6. Remember that stranger safety still applies.
• Don’t let strangers talk their way into your home
• Don’t let anyone draw you out of your home
• Ask for ID or credentials from utility workers
• Did you ask for assistance from this utility or contractor? Why are they there?
7. Carry your cell phone with you all the time
• Turn your location to “ON” and keep the power turned on
• Charge it nightly
• Have a listing in your address book for ICE- In Case of Emergency
8. Protect your money.
• Watch for scams and fraud
• Know where your money is
• Check your credit report annually
• There is no “Nigerian Money”, “foreign lottery”, or “lost inheritance”
9. Don’t flaunt valuables
• Wearing jewelry in public may be “advertising” to criminals
• Leaving valuables in cars leaves them open to thieves
10. Be alert to your surroundings.
• Situational awareness is important in keeping yourself safe. Always know what’s going on around you.
• Involve neighbors, friends, and Neighborhood Watch
• Partner with a friend for a daily mutual check-in