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From The Director - Rebalancing Long Term Care....an update
Don’t be a crime victim
By Lisa Lungo, Director of Client Services
Everyone thinks about personal safety and crime, and there are steps you can take to improve your ability to remain safe. Elder Services recently consulted with Officer Kim Bertelli-Supranowicz of the Pittsfield Police Department regarding safety. She identified three factors that must be present in order for a crime to occur: 1.) The desire to commit a crime, 2.) The ability to commit a crime, and 3.) The opportunity to commit a crime. The only factor that can be controlled is taking away the opportunity to commit a crime. Here are some tips that can help you take control and reduce the opportunity for you to be a victim of crime:
• Keep your keys in your hands as you approach your car or house.
• Keep the doors of your house locked at all times, especially when you are home.
• At night, keep the shades pulled in the house so people can’t see in.
• Check who is at the door before opening it. Ask for photo ID from all repair persons.
• Don’t hide extra keys in easily accessible places.
• Keep your car door locked at all times, even when you are in it.
• Keep your car in good working order and the gas tank at least half full.
• Walk on the sidewalk away from buildings and entry ways where someone could hide.
• If you think you are being followed, don’t go home. Go to a public place and call the police.
• Wear flat shoes and clothes that allow for movement if you have to run.
• Limit the amount of cash and credit cards you carry.
• Never give personal information to telephone solicitors.
Personal safety is an important issue for people of all ages. Be aware and be safe.