Senior Center Crime Prevention Tips

At home…A cartoon image of a house.

  • Always keep your doors and windows locked. Install dead-bolt locks on all doors.
  • Keep your home well lit at night, inside and out.
  • Make your home appear occupied when you go out by using a timer to turn on lights or a radio.
  • Install a peephole in your front door.
  • Never open your door for a stranger, even if you have to be rude. Ask for proper identification from deliverymen.
  • If someone needs to use your phone, you dial the number. Do not let them in your house.
  • Do not hide keys under mats or other objects
  • Get to know your neighbors. Look out for each other.
  • If you arrive home and suspect that someone is inside who should not be, do not go inside. Leave quietly and call the police.


A cartoon image of a storefront.

While you are out…

  • Avoid carrying a purse if you can. If carrying a purse, hold it close to you.
  • If walking around town, do not walk alone.
  • Never walk alone at night.
  • Do not carry a wallet in your back pocket. Carry your wallet in a front pants pocket or an inside coat pocket.
  • Always have your keys ready when you are approaching your car.


Your car…A cartoon image of an older woman in a car.

  • Keep gas tank full. Avoid breakdowns.
  • Keep your doors and windows locked.
  • Lock any packages or valuables in trunk so criminals cannot see them.
  • Never leave your keys in the car. Never leave wallet, checkbook, etc., in the car.

If you are a victim of a crime…

  • If the criminal is after your purse or other valuables, do not attempt to resist. Sit down so you won’t be knocked down. Scream, make noise.
  • Never chase a criminal.
  • Make a conscious effort to get an accurate description of the attacker.
  • Immediately report the crime to the police. Do not be ashamed. It was not your fault!!