Kernersville Police Department
A Higher Level of Service

Safety Tips for Seniors

At Home

Be sure the locks on your home are sufficient and work properly

• Types of locks vary. Ask a professional which type is appropriate.
• Strike plate screws should be replaced with ones long enough to grab framing wood
• Horizontal track bars should be used on sliding doors
• Window hardware should be upgraded or supplemented with vertical track bars
• Peep holes should be installed, and positioned to eliminate obstructions

If you have a security system on your home, make sure it works properly and use it regularly

• Even when you’re out during the day
• Battery back-ups will keep the system working even when power is lost
• Cellular back-up maintains a connection to a monitoring station if phone goes out

Don’t leave valuables in plain sight or in easily predictable locations within your home

• Not on the dresser top
• Don’t leave expensive items in jewelry boxes
• Not in your sock or underwear drawer

Install, maintain, and use proper lighting to deter nighttime crime

• Use exterior lighting over all entrances
• Mount the lighting high enough to prevent tampering
• Use timers and light sensors- don’t rely on turning lights on manually every night
• Place interior lights on timers so your home looks occupied

Maintain foliage according to the 3’/7’ rule. Not higher than 3’ or lower than 7’

• Special attention near entrances
• Special attention near walkways

While you are out

Remember that stranger safety still applies

• Don’t let strangers talk their way into your home
• Don’t let anyone draw you out of your home
• Ask for ID or credentials from utility workers
• Did you ask for assistance from this utility or contractor? Why are they there?

Carry your cell phone with you all the time

• Turn your location to “ON” and keep the power turned on
• Charge it nightly
• Have a listing in your address book for ICE- In Case of Emergency

Protect your money

• Watch for scams and fraud
• Know where your money is
• Check your credit report annually
• There is no “Nigerian Money”, “foreign lottery”, or “lost inheritance”

Don’t flaunt valuables

• Wearing jewelry in public may be “advertising����� to criminals
• Leaving valuables in cars leaves them open to thieves

Be alert to your surroundings

• Situational awareness is important in keeping yourself safe. Always know what’s going on around you
• Involve neighbors, friends, and Neighborhood Watch
• Partner with a friend for a daily mutual check-in