One thing our department feels very strongly about is protecting it's senior citizens against crime. Often enough, senior citizens are the target for criminal behavior. Thus, it's our goal to make our senior citizens more aware of the protective measures needed to become less of a target and more of an aware and cautious person!
Crime Prevention at Home
Keep Doors Locked
Install deadbolt locks.
Choose locks that you can easily use.
If the key is lost, of if you move, have the locks replaced.
Lock Your Windows
Keep all ground floor windows locked.
Draw curtains and blinds at night.
Use A Peephole (Install one if necessary)
Ask Service People to present their ID before you open the door.
Never open the door to strangers or let them know you're alone.
Protect Valuables
Keep money and valuables in a bank safety deposit box.
Have your social security checks directly deposited into the bank.
If possible, mark all valuables with a driver's license number and state abbreviation.
Consider A Pet
A dog -- even a small one -- can provide excellent protection, if you're willing to care for one.
Even "BEWARE OF DOG" signs are enough to scare some criminals away!
Alarm System
If you are away frequently or have many valuables, it may be worth the money.
Alarm decals will deter burglars from breaking into your house.
Place alarm decals on windows and door, especially side and rear windows and doors.
When You Go Out
Before You Leave
Leave outside lights on.
Don't leave a note saying when you'll return.
Leave a radio and a light on.
Lock the doors and windows.
Plan Your Route
Choose a safe, well-lit route to your destination.
If possible, let someone know where you are going, and when you'll return home.
Avoid shortcuts and dark, isolated spots.
Go With A Friend
You're safer if you have company.
Leashed dogs (large or small) are a deterrent to most muggers.
Protect Your Wallet or Purse
Carry wallet in a safe pocket or on a chain attached to a belt.
Don't carry large amounts or cash.
Leave your purse at home if possible.
Don't use a purse with a shoulder strap. If it's taken you may be thrown to the ground and possibly injured!
In Your Car
When Driving
Keep doors locked and windows up for safety.
Hide your purse or valuables out of sight.
If you're harassed at an intersection, don't respond; simply drive away safely.
Never pick up hitchhikers!
When Parking
Park close to your desitnation.
Choose an area that will be well lit when you return.
Lock valuables inside the trunk.
Returning To Your Car
Watch out for someone hiding behind nearby cars.
Before entering your car, make sure no one is hiding in the backseat.
If The Car Breaks Down
Raise the hood and stay inside.
Keep the doors locked.
If a stranger stops to help, ask them to alert the nearest service station.
On A Trip
Stop Delivery
Notify the post office that you are leaving on a trip.
Stop delivery of mail, newspapers, etc.
If this is not possible, have a neighbor or family member collect it for you.
Leave a "lived in" look.
Place the lights on timers.
Leave the shades up.
The volume of the telephone should be turned down.
Keep your lawn tended to.
Alert The Proper People
Contact the local Police Department.
Have them patrol past the house and possibly check around the house.
Tell your close neighbors.
Leave vehicles parked in the driveway.
Three "B's" to Protecting Yourself Against Crime
BE ALERT all the time at home and away.
BE AWARE of the precautions just outlined and local police programs.
BE ACTIVE by helping neighbors and reporting crimes and suspicious actions to the police.
All Rights Reserved. This page, and all contents, are Copyright © 1999 by the City of McEwen. McEwen, TN, USA.