Senior Safety

Crime Prevention is everyone's responsibility, not just law enforcement. Unfortunately, law enforcement cannot protect everyone from becoming a victim of fraud, scams and other serious crimes, but we can provide you with the knowledge and tools to educate yourself and your family. 

For senior citizens, it is especially difficult due to their frequency of victimization in the United States. Seniors are often targeted due to their trusting nature, the availability of liquid assets or cash, their dependence on others, and the susceptibility to the charm and guiles of a con artist combined with their often lonesome lifestyle. 

Tips & Suggestions

Seniors can learn how to protect themselves from crime by following these simple, common-sense suggestions. Share these tips with your neighbors and friends too, and make it tough for criminals to work in your neighborhood.

  1. At Home
  2. While You're Out
  3. In Your Car
  4. If You’re a Victim at Home
  • Always keep your doors (including your screen door) and windows locked. Install dead-bolt locks on all doors.
  • Keep your home well lit at night, inside and out, and keep your curtains closed at night.
  • Install a peephole in your front door so that you can see callers without opening the door.
  • Ask for proper identification from delivery persons and strangers. Don't be afraid of asking, if they are legitimate they won't mind.
  • Never give your credit card, phone card, social security, or bank account number to anyone over the phone.
  • If a stranger asks you to use your telephone, offer to place the call for him/her yourself, never let a stranger into your home.
  • Do not leave notes on your door when you are gone, and do not hide your keys under the mat or in any other conspicuous places.
  • Never give out information over the phone indicating you are alone or that you won't be home at a certain time.
  • When you are gone for more than a day, make sure your home looks and sounds occupied, use automatic timers to turn on lights and a radio or television.
  • If your car is parked outside overnight, be sure to lock your doors and remove your garage door opener to reduce the potential of someone gaining access to your car or home late at night or while you are sleeping.