In Your Car

• Drive with car doors locked and windows closed.
• Keep your wallet, purse, and valuables out of view while driving. Do not leave them next to you on the seat.
• If you see another motorist in trouble, do not stop. Call the police for assistance.
• Park only in well-lighted areas. Look around before you get out of the car.
• Put valuables and packages in the trunk or out of sight before you arrive at your destination.
• Always lock the doors, no matter how soon you plan to return.
• When returning to your car, have the door key in hand. Look inside before you unlock the door and get in.
• If you are being followed while driving, go to the closest police or fire station or to an open business and honk your horn.

At Home

• If a stranger is at your door, or calls on the phone, never indicate that you are alone.
• Teach children to never reveal—either to someone at the door or on the phone—that they are home alone. Children staying at home by themselves should know whom to call if they need help.
• Do not open the door to anyone you do not know without verifying their identity. Identification cards can be slipped under the door.
• If someone wants to use your telephone, offer to make the call yourself while the person waits outside your home.
• Never let a stranger through an apartment security entrance.
• Do not give any personal information to "wrong number" callers. Ask, "What number are you calling?"

Face-to-face Confrontations

• When faced with danger, trust yourself. Your most effective weapon is your own judgment. Rely on it to choose what you think is the best response at the time, whether it is to run, stall, negotiate, scream to attract attention, or physically resist the attacker. If the first strategy you choose is not working, try another.

Source: Advocacy Center for Long Term Care: 952-854-7304

Resources: United Way 2-1-1™ is a free and confidential, 24-hour information/referral line that can connect you to over 40,000 community programs and resources. Just dial 2-1-1 or 651-291-0211.