Safety Tips for the Elderly
The Croton Police Department is committed to protecting the safety of all community members. Crime and fear of crime are often significant concerns for the elderly. Learning what to do to reduce your chances of being a victim of crime can help you feel prepared. Here are some crime prevention tips from The National Crime Prevention Council and Croton-on-Hudson Police Department programs and initiatives to help you stay safe.
At home
- Lock your doors and windows
- Never open your door automatically, ensure you know who is there
- Don’t place keys under mats or in other receptacles outside your home
- Leave lights on at night; use a time to turn lights on and off when you are away
- Make a list and take photos of your valuables
- Report suspicious activity to the Police Department
- Consider installing a home surveillance system. These systems have become less expensive and easier to use as technology advances
Walking:
- Wear bright, reflective clothing
- Stick to sidewalks and bring a flashlight at night
- Plan your route, and be alert to your surroundings
- Walk with a companion if possible
- Have your key ready when you approach your door
In your car:
- Drive safely, heed speed limits and traffic signs
- Keep your car doors locked whether you are in or out of the car
- Lock packages and bags in in the trunk, don’t leave your purse or other valuables on the seat beside you
- Check your car, including the back seat, before you enter it
In stores:
- Never leave your purse unattended
- Pay careful attention when using credit cards, don’t “flash cash”
Money Safety, Fraud and Identity Theft:
- Use direct deposit for monthly checks (from the government etc.)
- Do not keep your credit cards with your checkbook – if stolen, the signature on the credit cards can be used to forge checks
- Never give money or personal information, including banking or credit card info, to someone who identifies themselves as a bank, government or other official
- Be on the lookout for “get rich quick” scams, do not give out any personal information to callers or organizations you are not familiar with
- Do not click on links or pop-ups in emails from people or companies you are not familiar with
- Consider purchasing an identity theft protection service
In case of a medical emergency, call 911. It is also helpful to keep the names and phone numbers of your health care providers (doctors) as well as the names of any medications you are on and health conditions you have in an easily accessible place.
The Croton Caring Committee holds luncheon monthly luncheons for our seniors. The February luncheon is sponsored by the Police Benevolent Association (PBA), for our seniors and attend by police officers. This gives the Department the opportunity to share important information about crime prevention and safety and gives seniors the opportunity to ask questions and get to know our officers. Officers also sometime attend and speak at other programs and events attended by seniors. They impart valuable information about how to safeguard personal and financial information and not become a victim of identity theft and telemarketing scams a serious problem, especially for the elderly.
This article was written by members of the Police Advisory Committee as part of the Community Information Project.