Tips for Senior Citizens
As people grow older, their chances of being victims of crime decrease dramatically. But a lifetime of experience coupled with the physical problems associated with aging often make older Americans fearful. Even though they may be on the lookout constantly for physical attack and burglary, they’re not as alert for frauds and con games - in reality the greatest crime threat to seniors’ well-being and trust. Here are some tips on how to avoid becoming a victim as a senior citizen.
While out and about....
Go with friends and family, not alone.
Carry your purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.
Don’t carry credit cards you don’t need or large amounts of cash.
Use direct deposit for social security and other regular checks.
Whether your a passenger or a driver, keep car doors locked. Be particularly alert in parking lots and garages. Park near an entrance.
Sit close to the driver or near the exit while riding the bus, train, or subway.
If someone or something makes you uneasy, trust your instincts and leave.
In your home....
Install good locks on doors and windows. Use them! Do not hide keys in mailboxes and planters or under doormats. Instead, leave an extra set of keys with a trusted neighbor or friend.
Ask for photo identification from service or delivery people before letting them in. If you are the least bit worried call the company to verify.
Be sure your street address number is large, clear of obstruction, and well-lighted so police and other emergency personnel can find your home quickly.
Consider a home alarm system that provides emergency monitoring for burglary, fire, and medical emergencies.
Watch out for con artist!
Do not fall for anything that sounds to good to be true - a free vacation, sweepstakes prizes, cures for cancer and arthritis, a low-risk high-yield investment scheme.
Never give your credit card, phone card, Social Security, or bank account number to anyone over the phone. It’s illegal for telemarketers to ask for these numbers to verify a prize or a gift.
Do not let anyone rush you into signing anything - an insurance policy, a sales agreement, a contract of any kind. Read it carefully and have someone you trust check it over.
Beware of individuals claiming to represent companies, consumer organizations, or government agencies that offer to recover lost money from fraudulent telemarketers for a fee.
If your suspicious, check it out with police, the Better Business Bureau, or local consumer protection office. Call the National Consumers League Fraud Information Center at 1-800-876-7060.
Getting involved with community programs such as Neighborhood Watch, would help you take an active part in the safety of your community. If your neighborhood does not have a Neighborhood Watch Program, contact your local police or sheriff’s office. If you would like to learn more about Neighborhood Watch, click here. Work to change conditions that hurt your neighborhood. If we are going to keep crime in check, we are going to have to work together. It takes everyone in the community, both young and old, to keep our neighborhoods a safe place we can be proud to live in. For more information about Senior Safety call 706-272-3273 or fill out a Crime Prevention Request Form.
This Web page was designed by:
Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office
Crime Prevention Unit
Lt. Wayne Mathis, Supervisor
P.O. Box 1572
Dalton, GA. 30722
(706) 272-3273
