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Safe At Home and On
your Own
Home
Security | Elder Abuse |
Frauds & Scams | Fire
Safety
Unfortunately, criminals sometimes
target seniors. Reduce the chances of becoming a victim of:
- Burglary
- Frauds and Scams
- Mental and physical abuse
- Fire Hazards
- Most burglaries occur during
daylight hours and many intruders gain
 access
through open or poorly secured doors and windows. To reduce
your chance of becoming a victim of a burglary:
- Trim trees and shrubs to eliminate
hiding places for thieves.
- Keep the exterior of your home well
lit, especially where there are doors and windows. Install
outside lights equipped with motion detectors to deter
burglars and alert others of potential criminal activity.
- Make it difficult for an intruder
to enter. Be certain your locks are functioning properly;
all doors have deadbolts and use them. Make sure windows are
locked and cannot be forced open, especially those not in
use. Secure the basement and attic windows.
- Many communities have free or low
cost repairs to low-income seniors. Check with local senior
organizations for more information.
- Create and maintain safe and
adequate escape routs in every room. Know how to get out
fast.
- When away from home, use timers on
inside lamps and radios to create the impression of an
occupied home.
- When returning home, give the house
a brief visual survey before entering. If anything looks
suspicious, call 9-1-1 from another location.
- If you have an answering machine
your message should not indicate that you live alone.
- Form a neighborhood watch program
and look out for one another.
- Report suspicious activity to the
police.
- Call 9-1-1 if needed.
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Being hurt or controlled may mean you
are being abused. There are many types of elder abuse. . . .
- Physical
- Sexual
- Psychological
- Financial
-
Neglect
Watch for these indicators of abuse
- Injuries such as cuts, bruises,
difficulty walking or sitting can be symptoms of physical or
sexual abuse.
- Withdrawn or fearful behavior can
be associated with psychological abuse.
- Family members or friends, suddenly
involved in decisions pertaining to money matters may mean
trouble.
- Poor provision of nutritional and
hygiene needs can point to neglect.
How to take action
Help yourself and help others who are less likely to protect
themselves. Please call (206) 448-3110 if you suspect
abuse.
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Every year billions of dollars are
lost to fraudulent activities. Scams are conducted over the
telephone, by mail, the Internet and door to door. Often, you
will be pressured into donating or purchasing right now!
Prizes,
vacations, charities, club memberships, or investments can be
the front used by con artists.
Don't fall for it!
- Legitimate organizations do not
require immediate response and should provide you with
information in the mail.
- Take your time and have others
review information with you.
- Never give your credit card number
over the phone unless you initiate the call and know whom
you are calling.
- If someone will not let you get off
the phone, hang up.
- Familiarize yourself with an
organization by asking for references.
- Ask a lot of questions.
- Be cautious of anyone claiming,
"You will never get another opportunity like this."
- If the offer seems too good to be
true, it probably is!
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Protect yourself & your home from
fires with these helpful tips:
- Test your smoke detectors once a
month to make sure they work. Replace smoke detector
batteries once a year.
- Keep a fire extinguisher on every
floor in the house.
- Plan and practice a home fire
drill. Make a map showing the exits from every room.
- Obtain an escape ladder for
bedrooms located on the 2nd floor or higher. Make sure
windows can be opened easily from the inside if needed for
escape.
- Make sure burners are turned off
after use.
- Keep and store flammable materials
in a safe place.
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Eliminate fire hazards in your
home, i.e. piles of paper, smoking in bed, etc.
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