Telephone Safety

• Do not give personal information to callers.
• Do not leave personal information on an answering machine.
• If called by a person who says they are with a business, ask the caller for the business telephone number, so that you can return the call. Then, check the number to ensure that it corresponds to the caller's information.
• If you do wish to conduct business with a telephone solicitor, ask that they mail you information so you can make a more informed decision. If they refuse or pressure you, hang up.
• Report nuisance callers to your telephone company; or if obscene or threatening notify the police department.
• To avoid telephone solicitation to the extent possible, sign up for the "National Do-Not Call List."

Valuable Items

• Close blinds/drapes at night
• Conduct a personal property inventory and record an ID number on the items
• Do not keep large amounts of cash at home or on your person
• Do not open door to strangers
• Install and use a peephole
• Keep doors and windows locked
• Utilize direct deposit option, if available

Individual Safety

• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid secluded areas.
• Do similar functions in a group (shopping, laundry, walking).
• Have drivers wait until you're inside to drive off.
• If apprehensive about any location (parking lot, ATM) for any reason, leave.
• Present an alert appearance.
• Use a buddy system.
• Use drive-up ATMs instead of walk-ups. When possible use them during the day. Protect you PIN.