TODAY’S TIP

Seniors Need to Be Aware, Take Precautions

Here are some safety tips for senior citizens:

* Carry your purse close to you--don’t dangle it from your arm. Also, never leave your purse in a shopping cart.

* Don’t carry more cash than necessary. Many grocery stores now accept checks and bank cards.

* Avoid walking alone at night; try to have a friend accompany you in high-risk areas--even during the daytime.

* Do not carry weapons--they may be used against you.

* Have your paychecks or government checks sent directly to your bank account.

* Never withdraw money from your bank accounts for someone else. Be wary of con artists and “get rich” schemes.

* If you arrive at home and suspect a stranger is inside, don’t enter. Leave quietly and call 911 to report your suspicions.

* If you are attacked on the street, make as much noise as possible by calling for help or blowing a whistle. Do not pursue your attacker. Call 911 to report the crime as soon as possible.

* If you have been swindled or conned, report the crime to your local police or district attorney’s office. Con artists count on their victims’ reluctance to admit they’ve been duped, but if you delay, you help them get away. If you don’t report the crime, they are free to cheat others, and you have no chance of getting your money back.

Source: City of Dana Point

Researched by LINN GROVES / Special to the Times