Senior citizens represent the most rapidly growing segment of the population in the United States. Although national surveys indicate that senior citizens are the least victimized age group, they often exhibit the greatest fear of crime. This fear can at least partially be contributed to their fear of personal vulnerability. These are some basic safety tip. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Community Services Unit.

Safety at the Door

• Don’t open the door unless you know your visitor.
• Have a through-the-door viewer installed on each exterior door.
• If the person is a salesman or representative, verify their information with the business before opening the door. Refuse to deal with anyone who will not provide this information before opening the door.
• Someone may knock at the door and ask to use your telephone for an emergency. Never open the door. Take the information and make the call for them.
• Call 9-1-1 immediately if you believe you are in danger.

Telephone Safety

• If a telephone call is obscene, hang up the phone but do not slam the receiver down.
• If a telephone call is threatening, contact the police department immediately.
• Never allow yourself to be drawn into a conversation with an unknown caller in which you reveal your name, address, marital status, or anything to indicate you are alone.
• Don’t let a caller know you are angry or upset. This is the reaction they want and will often encourage them.
• Any offer that sounds too good to be true probably is.
• Legitimate sweepstakes or prize offers don’t ask for payment because it is illegal. If you are asked for payment in order to receive a prize, it is probably a scam.
• If a caller asks for a donation but won’t tell you exactly how the money will be used and how you can verify the charity, it is probably a scam.

Deterring the Burglar

• Never carry identification on your key ring or holder.
• Don’t hide a spare key outside your door…burglars know where to look.
• Always lock exterior doors, even when you are home.
• Avoid chain locks on doors. They are easily broken.