Safety tips when you are out:

• Plan your route and stay alert to your surroundings.
• Walk/carry yourself with confidence.
• If you must carry a purse, hold it close and do not dangle it from your arm.
• Avoid large bulky shoulder bags.
• Carry change for emergency telephone and transportation use.
• Avoid carrying or showing large sums of cash. Only carry what you need with you.
• Whenever possible, travel with friends.
• Carry a shriek alarm.
• When you drive keep doors and windows locked.
• Park in well lighted, busy areas.
• If you have car trouble, be wary of strangers who offer help. Stay in your car and ask them to call a service truck or the police.
• Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in a place or situation, leave.

When you are at home:

• Use deadbolt locks on all exterior doors.  Keep your doors locked at all times.
• Protect windows and sliding glass doors with locks or other security devices.
• Never let strangers in your home without checking their identification. If the person says they are from a company to provide a service, call their company if you are not sure.
• Leave lights on when going out at night; use a timer to turn lights on and off when you are away.
• Notify neighbors and the police when going away on a trip.
• If you live alone, don't advertise it. Use only your first initial in phone book and apartment lobby directories.
• Participate in neighborhood watch programs.
• Don't hide keys under a doormat or other obvious places.

What to do if you are assaulted:

• Make as much noise as possible by calling for help or blowing a whistle.
• Do not pursue your attacker. Call 911 and report the crime as soon as possible.
• If the attacker is only after your purse or other possessions, don't resist. Your life and safety are more valuable.
• Make a conscious effort to get an accurate description of the attacker.
• Contact your local victim assistance agency to help you deal with the trauma that all crime victims experience. 

Please contact your local law enforcement agency or Sheriff's Office to learn more about senior safety and crime prevention. Additionally, the National Crime Prevention Council has a useful brochure available for further reading.