Seniors
Staying Safe
Staying Safe
Friday, 25 September 2009 15:57
Staying Safe
Advocates for the elderly offer some tips for seniors to stay safe (actually, the advice is not a bad idea for people of any age to follow):
Practice Street Smarts 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 each other at least once a day 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 your money, give it up Keep your money in several pockets – perhaps even some in your shoe -- 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 on 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 who makes you feel uncomfortable
In your car
Never pick up hitch hikers (and never be one!)
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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