Safety at Home for Senior Citizens

A Practical Guide For Seniors

HOME SECURITY AND BURGLARY PREVENTION

• Most burglaries occur during daylight hours and many intruders gain access through open or poorly secured doors and windows. To reduce your chance of becoming a victim of a burglary:

• Trim trees and shrubs to eliminate hiding places for thieves.

• Keep the exterior of your home well lit, especially where there are doors and windows. Install outside lights equipped with motion detectors to deter burglars and alert others of potential criminal activity.

• Make it difficult for an intruder to enter. Be certain your locks are functioning properly; all doors have deadbolts and use them. Make sure windows are locked and cannot be forced open, especially those not in use. Secure the basement and attic windows.

• Many communities have free or low cost repairs to low-income seniors. Check with local senior organizations for more information.

• Create and maintain safe and adequate escape routs in every room. Know how to get out fast.

• When away from home, use timers on inside lamps and radios to create the impression of an occupied home.

• When returning home, give the house a brief visual survey before entering. If anything looks suspicious, call 9-1-1 from another location.

• If you have an answering machine your message should not indicate that you live alone.

• Form a neighborhood watch program and look out for one another.

• Report suspicious activity to the police.

• Call 9-1-1 if needed.

FIRE SAFETY

Protect yourself & your home from fires with these helpful tips:

• Test your smoke detectors once a month to make sure they work. Replace smoke detector batteries once a year.

• Keep a fire extinguisher on every floor in the house.

• Plan and practice a home fire drill. Make a map showing the exits from every room.

• Obtain an escape ladder for bedrooms located on the 2nd floor or higher. Make sure windows can be opened easily from the inside if needed for escape.

• Make sure burners are turned off after use.

• Keep and store flammable materials in a safe place.

• Eliminate fire hazards in your home, i.e. piles of paper, smoking in bed, etc.

• Pedestrians have the right of way at ALL intersections, whether in a marked crosswalk or not.

• Always yield to pedestrians upon making turns at intersection

By taking some basic security cautions seniors can protect themselves in their homes.