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SAFETY TIPS
If you
are traveling:
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Get an automatic timer
for your lights.
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Ask a neighbor to watch
you home, shovel snow and park in the driveway from time to time.
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Don't forget to have
mail and newspaper delivery stopped. If it piles up, it's a sign
you're gone.
If
you're out for the evening:
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Turn on lights and a
radio or TV so it looks like someone is home.
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Be extra cautious about
locking doors and windows when you leave, even if it's just for a
few minutes.
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During the holidays
don't display gifts where they can be seen from outside.
Disposing of boxes after holidays
Cardboard packaging from holiday gifts or significant purchases, such
as electronics, appliances, or computers can be invitations to
break-ins. Reduce this risk by:
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Removing information
about the make, model, and serial number of your item from the box.
Cut out this information and save it with your records.
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Preparing the cardboard
for recycling. Flatten and bundle the cardboard. It may be tied with
twine, or placed into smaller cardboard boxes. Please do not use
plastic bags, because it causes problems with the recycling process.
Once bundled, the packaging will no longer advertise what you have
just bought to people walking or driving down your street looking
for information.
If
you're shopping:
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Stay alert and be aware
of what's going on around you.
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Park in well-lighted
space, and be sure to lock the car, close the windows , and hide
shopping bags and gifts in the trunk.
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Avoid carrying large
amounts of cash, pay with a check or credit card whenever possible.
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Deter pickpockets and
purse-snatchers. Don't overburden yourself with packages. Be extra
careful with purses and wallets. Carry a purse close to your body,
not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front
pants pocket.
If a
Stranger Comes to your Door...Beware
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Criminals sometimes pose
as couriers delivering gifts. It's not uncommon for people to try to
take advantage of others' generosity especially during the holidays
by going door-to-door for charitable donations when there's no
charity involved. Ask for identification, and find out how the funds
will be used. If you aren't satisfied, don't give. Help a charitable
organization you know and like instead.
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Seniors
