Crime Prevention Tips

Personal Safety

• Base your decisions on Rule One , voted number "ONE" for 99 years in a row.  "If it seems too good to be true, it probably is."

• Rely upon your instincts. If you suspect something amiss, wherever–whenever follow your instincts. Being embarrassed does not compare with being harmed.

  • (Many people recount the times they avoided mishaps, just by acknowledging their suspicion that something did not "feel" right.)

• Don’t ever give out personal information (social security number, bank account information, etc.) to a stranger (in person or over the phone, even if they tell you that you have won a fabulous prize but can collect only if you give them the information they request immediately.)

  • Reputable businesses do not "bully" you and it is against the law for telemarketers to request such information from you.

  • Don’t ever be in a hurry –ask questions and read the small print. Con artists are smart, you be smarter.

• Don’t open your door to strangers. Don’t rely upon door chains; they can be easily broken. If the stranger asks to use your telephone, offer to place a telephone call for them. If they do not leave, call 9-1-1.

• If a utility worker or policeman comes to your door, you may ask them to provide you with identification before you let them in your house.  If you aren’t convinced, make a telephone call to their employer and verify their validity to be at your home.

• In some areas, people put a blue light bulb in their porch light fixture and if it is turned on, it alerts others that you have a problem. If you use this method, tell your neighbors that if your blue light is on, you are in trouble and they should call 9-1-1 for you.