General Tips for Elders

Safety:

  • Do not display large amounts of cash when out in public
  • Use direct deposit for your pension and/or social security checks
  • Travel in groups. If you must travel alone, do not advertise the fact that you are by yourself
  • Work out a "buddy system" with a friend so you can check up on them and they can check up on you at least once a day

Practice Street Smarts:

  • Avoid dark, deserted or isolated routes
  • Do not walk near walls, high bushes, or near cars
  • Project an image of self-confidence while you are walking
  • Cross the street to avoid people who make you feel uncomfortable
  • Know how to get where you are going ahead of time
  • If someone demands for your money, give it up
  • Keep your money in several pockets instead of one pocket
  • Never accept a ride from someone you do not know well

At Home:

  • Never let a stranger into your home. Always examine their identification badge before you allow a service technician into your home
  • Lock your home when you are there and when you are away. Keep your 1st floor windows locked
  • Do not let people on the phone know you are alone
  • Keep your phone by your bed at night
  • Post all emergency numbers close to the telephone
  • Leave a light on while you are out. Use a different light each time you are not home
  • Leave the porch light on
  • Know your neighbors and make sure they know you

Apartment Dwellers:

  • Know where you can get help in a hurry
  • Make sure all halls have good lighting
  • Use the laundry room in the apartment building when other tenants are present
  • Look in the elevator before getting in to be sure no one is hiding inside. Get off the elevator if someone suspicious enters
  • If you are worried about another person waiting for the same elevator as you, pretend you forgot something in your apartment and do not go onto the elevator

Using Transportation:

  • Use well-lit bus stops
  • Sit near the bus driver
  • Sit on the aisle so you do not get blocked in at the window
  • Do not get off the bus with someone that makes you feel uncomfortable

In your car:

  • Never pick up hitch hikers
  • Keep your car doors locked at all times. Lock all doors upon entering and leaving your car
  • Check the back seat before entering your car
  • As you are approaching your car, take a look under the car to make sure no one is hiding under there

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