Seniors are more vulnerable to certain crimes, purse snatching, mugging, and fraud. But you can reduce opportunities for criminals to strike by being careful, alert, and a good neighbor.

When You’re Out

• If you must carry a purse, hold it close to your body. Don’t dangle it.
• Never carry a wallet in your back pocket. Put it in an inside jacket pocket or front pocket.
• Make sure someone knows where you’re going and when you expect to return.
• Avoid dark, deserted routes, even if they’re the shortest.
• Carry change for emergency telephone and transportation use.
• Whenever possible, travel with friends to stores, the bank, or the doctor.
• When using the bus or other public transportation, sit near the driver if possible.
• Don’t overburden yourself with packages and groceries that obstruct your view and make it hard to react.
• Have your car or house key in hand as you approach your vehicle or home.
• Carry a shriek alarm.
• When you drive, keep doors locked and windows. 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.
• If a friend or a taxi takes you home, ask the driver to wait until you are safely inside.
• Communicate the message that you are calm, confident, and know where you are going. 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, even when you’re inside.
• Protect windows and sliding glass doors with good locks or other security devices.
• Make your home appear occupied when you go out by using a timer to turn on lights and a radio.
• Never let strangers in your home without checking their identification. Call their company if you’re not sure. Install a peephole in your door and use it.
• If you live alone, don’t advertise it. Use only your first initial in phone books, directories, and apartment lobbies.
• Get to know your neighbors and keep their phone numbers handy for emergencies.
• Work out a “buddy” system with friends to check on each other daily.
• Engrave your valuables with a unique identification number recommended by the police. Keep bonds, stock certificates, seldom worn jewelry, and stamp and coin collections in a safe deposit box.
• Don’t hide extra house keys under a doormat or other obvious spots.

Protect Your Money

• If you receive checks in the mail regularly, arrange for them to be sent directly to the bank instead.
• Avoid carrying large sums of money. If you must take a large sum, have a friend accompany you.
• Don’t display large amounts of cash in stores or other public places
• Don’t sign a check or contract until you’re sure it’s for a legitimate reason and know the details. Check with a friend, lawyers, or a police officer if in doubt.
• Never put your purse or wallet on a counter while you examine merchandise in a store.

What If You Are Assaulted

• If the attacker is only after your purse or other valuables, don’t resist. Your life and safety are worth more than your possessions.
• Make a conscious effort to get an accurate description of the attacker and call the East Pennsboro Police immediately.

Where Can I Find Additional Information

• Visit AARP’s web site for more tips and resources.