Mifflin County Regional Police Department

Seniors are more vulnerable to certain crimes like purse snatching, mugging and fraud. But you can reduce opportunities for criminals to strike by being careful, alert and a good neighbor.

• If you must carry a purse, carry it close to you’re body. Don’t dangle it.
• Never carry a wallet in your back pocket, place it in an inside jacket pocket or front pocket.
• Make sure someone knows where you’re going and when you expect to return.
• Always carry a cell phone and take change for an emergency pay phone call.
• Whenever possible, travel with friends to stores, the bank, or the doctor. Check with the senior citizen center about escort services.
• Don’t overburden yourself with packages and groceries that obstruct your view and make it hard to react.
• Have your car or house key in your hand as you approach your vehicle or home.
• When you drive, keep doors locked and windows up. Park in well-lighted, busy areas. If you have car trouble, be wary of strangers who offer help. Stay in your car and ask them to call a service truck or the police.
• If a friend or taxi takes you home, ask the driver to wait until you are safely inside.
• Always trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in a situation, leave.

• Use deadbolt locks on all exterior doors. Keep your doors locked at all times, even when you’re inside.
• Protect windows and sliding glass doors with good locks and security devices.
• Make your home appear occupied when you go out by using a timer to turn your lights off and on.
• Never let strangers in your home without checking their identification first. Call their company if you are not sure.
• Install a peephole in your door and use it.

• If you receive checks in the mail regularly, arrange for them to be sent directly to the bank instead.
• Avoid carrying large sums of money. If you must carry a large, have a friend accompany you.
• Don’t flash large amounts of cash in stores or other public places.
• Never put your purse or wallet on the counter while you examine merchandise in a store.

• If the attacker is only after your purse or other valuables, don’t resist. Your life and safety are worth more than your possessions.
• Make a conscious effort to get a good description of the attacker and call the police immediately.
• Contact your local victim assistance agency to help you deal with the trauma that all crime victims experience. They can help you learn more about counseling, victim compensation laws and how to follow your case’s progress.
• Start a crime prevention program in your building or neighborhood. Turn your tragedy into a helping experience for others.

Staying active in your community will help you feel safer, and help to make your Neighborhood a better place to live.

• Join a neighborhood Block Watch.
• Become a foster grandparent or block parent for children who may need help in an emergency.
• If a friend has been a victim of crime, be supportive. Listen carefully and don’t be judgmental. Cook a meal, help repair damage or replace belongings. Accompany the victim to the police station and to court.
• Ask the crime prevention officer from your local police department to talk to your citizens’ group.