Crime Prevention Tips From the Air Taser and Stun Gun Store

SAFETY AT YOUR FRONT DOOR

1. Never automatically open your front door. Make sure you know your caller's identity before admitting him.
2. If the person at your door is a stranger, ask for identification to be passed under the door. If he is unable to do this, do not admit him.
3. It is advisable to have a wide angle viewer (peep-hole) in the door so that you can check a person's identity without unlocking your door.

HOME SAFETY

1. All doors in your home leading to the outside should have dead-bolt locks.
2. When away at night, leave a light burning.
3. Do not leave a key over a door or under a mat.
4. The single lock on a garage door is inadequate to keep intruders from prying up the opposite side and crawling in. Use a padlock. But never leave it unlocked. This is an invitation to have the padlock removed so that a key can be made, and the lock returned to its position. Later, the burglar returns when no one is home and enters at his leisure, using "his" key.
5. Mark your valuables and keep an accurate record of all your most valuable possessions.
6. When leaving on a trip: A. Stop all deliveries. B. Connect a light to a timer. C. Notify the police and have a neighbor check your home periodically. D. Have someone maintain your lawn.
7. Be a concerned neighbor. If you see a suspicious person, car or situation, contact the police.

SAFETY FOR THE APARTMENT DWELLER

1. If you live in an apartment building with an intercom system to the front door, make sure the landlord keeps it in operating order.
2. Never admit anyone unless you are expecting him or know him.
3. Never admit anyone to the building who is there to see another tenant or to deliver something to another apartment.
4. Anyone asking admission so that he can do some work for another tenant should not be admitted, but should be referred to the building's manager.
5. If you see someone in your building who looks out of place or is acting suspiciously, contact the police.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF ON CITY STREETS

Street crime is on the increase in most large U.S. cities. It is also becoming more prevalent in small communities. The following list of "safeguards" will help protect you - and may even save your life!

1. When leaving home, make sure that all doors and windows are locked - including the garage door.
2. Watch for loiterers and do not carry large sums of money. 3. If possible, travel with another person. This is especially true after dark.
3. When carrying a purse, women should have only 3 or 4 one dollar bills placed inside. Credit cards, currency, driver's license, keys and jewelry should be carried in a coat or sweater pocket or concealed on your person to reduce the opportunity of large losses. If you do carry a purse, don't wrap the strap around your shoulder, neck or wrist. If your purse is grabbed, a strong strap will not yield easily and you may be injured. Some purse snatch victims have been thrown off balance & received concussions, broken hips, arms or legs. Don't carry anything more valuable than you can afford to lose. Always leave all unnecessary credit cards at home. When you shop and carry a purse, put it in your shopping bag.
4. At night, travel only well-lighted and well-traveled streets.
5. Never hitchhike or accept rides from strangers.
6. Walk on the side of the street nearest to oncoming traffic. If accosted by someone in a car, run in the direction opposite the way the car is headed.
7. Beware of people who approach asking directions; keep a polite but safe distance.
8. A good suggestions for men is to carry a second wallet containing a few $1.00 bills and old expired credit cards, which are normally destroyed or discarded. If confronted at knife or gunpoint, give the suspect the second wallet and concentrate on a good physical description to help the police in making the arrest.
9. Upon returning home, particularly after dark, do not linger at the entrance of your residence. Make a quick check for mail or newspapers, and enter immediately. If you feel something is strange, don't enter but go elsewhere and call for police assistance.
10. If you feel someone is following you, go to the nearest occupied residence or building, and ask for assistance.
11. If you are confronted with a dangerous situation, cry out for assistance. Yelling "FIRE! FIRE!" instead of "Help!" will generally bring faster attention.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR VALUABLES FROM THEFT

One of the most effective tools you can use to retrieve property stolen from your home is a simple electric engraving pen. With this pen you can inscribe your name or a number on the most valuable items in and around your home. Before you do this, check with local police to see which they prefer you use - your name, driver's license, social security number or whatever.
Engraving your name or number on your valuables helps deter robbery in two ways: First, you discourage the thief since marked property is much more difficult to sell. Second, if a thief does steal your property, it is much easier to catch and prosecute him when he is discovered with goods in his possession that are easily identifiable as stolen.
Billions of dollars worth of property stolen each year is never returned to the owners. Why? Because without some identifying mark or number, the police are unable to verify stolen property, or trace the owner. More than half the property recovered by the police is eventually auctioned off or destroyed because the goods have no identifying characteristics.
In some cities, local law enforcement agencies will lend you and your neighbors an engraving pen free. In these communities, you may borrow an engraving tool for several days. If this service is not available to you, you can purchase an inexpensive electric pen from your local hardware store for as little as $10 to $15. this small investment could be worth a great deal more to you at a later date.
Items already marked with a serial number - such as cars, TV's, cameras, typewriters, radios, stereos, tape decks, appliances, etc., may not have to be engraved with your name or personal number. Check with local police first. If they recommend you inscribe your identifying mark on serialized items, inscribe this information just above the manufacturer's serial number.
On unserialized property, inscribe your name or number on the upper right corner of the rear or backside of each item. should you decide to sell or discard the item at a later date, you should invalidate your number by using the engraving pen or any sharp tool to draw a single line through your name or number from the upper left to the lower right hand corner. Do not deface your name or number in any other way. It is also advisable, when selling "marked" property, to write out a simple receipt and specifying on it that you were the previous owner and indicate the name or number used by you. This could prevent legal hassles for the new owner at a later time.
To protect smaller valuable items such as jewelry, silverware, etc., it is wise to take a photo of each item. A Simple, instant-type camera photo is sufficient.
After you have marked and/or photographed all your valuables, make a detailed list of these items and keep it in a safe place. When new items are acquired, add them to your list. As other valuables are sold or discarded, cross them off the list.
If you use credit cards, they should also be recorded on your list. Either copy your account number from each card and expiration date, or you can have photo copies made for your records.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF WHEN TRAVELING

SAFETY ON PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

1. While waiting for a bus or streetcar, stand near others who are also waiting.
2. If the immediate area is deserted or in darkness, stand near an occupied building on in a lighted area until transportation arrives.
3. Once on a bus or streetcar, be aware of those around you. If someone looks or acts suspicious, notify the driver.
4. If the coach is empty or nearly empty, sit as far up front and as close to the driver as possible.
5. If someone begins to bother you, get up and notify the driver immediately.
6. Upon arriving at your stop, be aware of those who alight with you. If you feel you are being followed, go to the nearest occupied building and ask for assistance.
7. After dark, attempt to get off the bus in well-lighted areas. Use only well-lighted streets to reach your final destination.

AUTO SAFETY

1. Make certain your car is always in good working order, with safe tires and an adequate amount of gasoline for your planned trip.
2. Always check your car before getting in - to make sure that no one is hiding inside.
3. If you have a garage, be sure you lock the door as you leave.
4. It is best to park in attended lots. if you must leave a key with the attendant, leave only the ignition key. In all other cases, lock your car.
5. Do not leave packages or personal items in open view in the car . . place them in the trunk.
6. At night, park only in lighted areas.
7. If you are in danger of being harmed or robbed, while in your car, start sounding your horn until assistance arrives.
8. Never pick up a hitchhiker.
9. If you have a flat tire in an area you feel might not be safe, try to keep driving until you reach a safe location.
10. If you feel you are being followed, drive to the nearest police or fire station, or open filling station.

ELEVATOR SAFETY

1. Observe elevator interior before entering. Wait until the next elevator if you are uncertain of any occupant.
2. Females riding the elevator alone should always stand near the control panel. If accosted, press ALL buttons.
3. If a suspicious person enters the elevator, exit before the door closes.
4. Before exiting from the elevator, observe the corridor for suspicious activity.

HOW TO GUARD AGAINST PURSE SNATCHERS

Purse snatching is a crime of opportunity. You can eliminate that opportunity. Every female carrying a purse is a potential target. Senior citizens are especially susceptible to these criminals since they may not be readily able to defend themselves and pursue their assailants.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Purse snatching is a crime that can be easily prevented when you take away the opportunity from the thief. Most purse snatchers are juveniles under the age of 18, who are waiting for the next opportunity. When you hide the "prize" you protect yourself!
Suppose you are going shopping and waiting for the bus. You are by yourself and your purse is exposed and in open view. You already made two mistakes - you're alone and your purse is vulnerable. Frankly, your personal safety might depend on NOT clinging to that purse, even though it seems a normal way to protect the contents. Grabbing and shoving that may take place can result in being injured. There are ways to protect yourself, however.

SHOP WITH A FRIEND, TRAVEL TOGETHER

The first precaution you can take is to go shopping with a friend - man or women. You're safer when in the company of someone else. If you must be out at night alone, stay in well-lighted areas. Walk close to street lights, staying well away from dark corners, alleys and building entrances.

HOW TO OUTSMART THE PURSE SNATCHER

When carrying a purse, women should have only 3 or 4 one dollar bills placed inside. Credit cards, currency, driver's license, keys and jewelry should be carried in a coat or sweater pocket, or concealed on your person to reduce the opportunity of large losses. If you carry a purse, don't wrap the strap around your shoulder, neck or wrist. If your purse is grabbed, a strong strap will not yield easily and you may be injured. Some purse snatch victims have been thrown down and have received concussions and broken bones. Never carry anything more valuable than you can afford to lose. Always leave all unnecessary credit cards at home. When you shop and carry a purse, place it in your shopping bag. Never leave your purse on a store counter or in a grocery shopping cart - even for a moment.

DON'T CARRY WEAPONS THAT CAN BE USED AGAINST YOU

You should carry a police whistle, a flashlight, and pepper or mace spray on your key chain where they're readily available. Make a habit to carry your key chain in a pocket - NOT in your purse. And, you should never put your name and address on your house keys or car keys. This is simple a way of telling the thief who you are and where you live.

CALL THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY

Most victims are attacked from behind. They don't get a good look at the attacker. And when a juvenile gets away with it once, he'll try it again. If attacked, call the police immediately. Try to remember all details - help your police help you!

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM PICKPOCKETS

The "art" of picking pockets is among one of the world's oldest professions. Author Charles Dickens' Artful Dodger is probably among the best known pickpockets. However, all are not juveniles - and all are not males!
The skilled pickpocket is not the seedy character you'd expect to find lurking in a dark doorway. He (or she) appears about as average as you and I in appearance and manner. Because they make a study of how to "blend" into the crowd, pickpockets usually remain undetected and can practice their activities with little hindrance.
Pickpockets follow no regular schedule. they operate equally well during daylight hours as well as at night. And if you have been led to believe that picking pockets takes place only in crowds, forget it! The only known fact is that they generally focus on the public during times when they might be carrying more money than usual, such as during pre-holiday spending sprees, store sales, at fairs, carnivals, horse races, gambling casinos, near bank entrances, etc.
While many pickpockets work alone, there are also teams of two or three which sometimes involves a female accomplice. A team with nimble fingers is next to impossible to apprehend. The first team member removes the valuables from the unsuspecting victim's pockets. He then secretly passes them on to the next member who quickly disappears. When a female member is also employed, she generally engages the victim in conversation to distract or delay his attention.
Contrary to what most think, experienced pickpockets do not place their hands all the way into the victims pockets. Rather, the expert criminal reaches into the top of the pocket, takes up a pleat in the lining, then makes a dozen or so more tiny pleats, folding the lining with swift dexterity between his fingers. The shortening pocket lining moves the valuables upward so that they emerge at the mouth of the pocket. The entire act takes place in a second or two.
The best protection for foiling pickpockets is to remove the opportunity of becoming a victim. . .

FOR MEN:

1. The target areas are back trouser pockets, and suitcoat and sports jacket pockets, located inside and out. A pickpocket who values his freedom avoids front trouser pockets, and especially buttoned or zippered pockets.
2. If it is necessary to carry your wallet in an unbuttoned pants, coat or jacket pocket, be sure it contains only what you can afford to lose. Keep large sums of money, credit cards, ID's, etc. in your front pocket or any buttoned or zippered pocket; keys on a chain attached to your clothing.
3. Never "pat" your pocket to see if you wallet is still there. This notifies the criminal of the location of your valuables. 4. Larger size "pocket secretaries" are especially inviting to pickpockets - and relatively easy to steal.

FOR WOMEN

1. Do NOT carry your wallet in your purse. Conceal it in a coat or sweater pocket where it does not show a bulge.
2. Use a purse that is difficult or time consuming to open.
3. Never let your purse lie unattended on a store counter or in a grocery shopping cart.

If you have been victimized by a pickpocket, immediately notify police and give the best description you can.

HOW TO SAFEGUARD AGAINST RAPE

If you are a female, chances are 1 in 10 that you will be a victim of sexual assault. The attacker makes no distinction between age, race, appearance or any other characteristics. Common sense is your best defense against attack. Because every rape is different, there's no one solution for thwarting an attack. If you are attacked, evaluate the situation and look for ways to escape. some women have avoided rape by talking their way out of it, acting crazy or fighting back. A kick in the groin isn't usually successful because men instinctively protect this area, and you may lose your balance. If you decide to respond physically, remember that your first priority is to get away. Act quickly and derisively to throw the attacker off guard while you escape. After an attack:
A. Go to a safe place.
B. Call the police.
C. Preserve evidence - don't shower or douche; blood and semen are important evidence. And don't change your clothes or disturb the scene of the crime.
D. Get medical care.
 

Medical attention is vital! Many hospitals provide free care for rape victims and offer pregnancy prevention and venereal disease treatment. Remember, even if you do get treatment immediately, follow-up tests for V.D. are essential.
Never be embarrassed because of the incident. Though difficult to talk about, it is important to tell doctors what sex acts took place so they will know what medical attention is needed.
Try to remember in detail your exact experience, for police records. Give as accurate and complete description of your assailant as possible. This is extremely important! Your complete co-operation with local authorities may help in preventing similar attacks on other girls and women.

HOW SHOPLIFTING AFFECTS YOU & YOUR FAMILY

One of the most common non-violent crimes facing America today- and most of the world - is shoplifting. so prevalent is this problem, that most stores and shops automatically increases prices (as much as 10%) to cover these losses. Shoplifters fall into several categories. Firsts, there are the "professionals". They make their living by stealing - most often to their "customers" specifications. They have to perfect their technique to operate . . .to remove labels with scissors or razor blades, that could incriminate them if caught . . .or by designing a "booster" box for stolen articles. . . or the expert use of "bad bags" (shopping bags). . . or "booster" skirts or pants (ordinary appearing garments with baglike compartments inside). . .plus dozens of other clever "professional's tools". Some take things they could easily pay for and perhaps do not even want. These offenders may suffer from kleptomania, a neurotic, irresistible impulse to steal. This is almost never done for the purpose of acquiring the item taken. While these people may not necessarily be considered mentally ill, generally "kleptomaniacs" are emotionally disturbed. The greatest number of shoplifters are "amateurs". Usually, they have little money, few scruples & an intense desire to own luxuries. Psychologists say the four most common urges and emotions underlying these crimes are:

1. Profound feelings of guilt.
2. A wish to be punished.
3. A need to prove their worth and/or
4. An impulse to retaliate for real or fancied wrongs. These shoplifters are not necessarily ill or disturbed, they simply steal because it pays.

Whether the item taken is of little value (as a candy bar or piece of bubble gum), or of greater worth (typewriter or camera) it is still shoplifting and it is still a crime. These crimes affect us all by being forced to pay higher prices.

HOW TO TELL IF YOUR CHILDREN ARE SHOPLIFTERS

No matter how young children are, they must be taught that to take anything without paying for it is a wrongful act. If a child does not realize this at an early age, it may set a pattern that could follow him into adulthood, with disturbing consequences. The simplest way to prevent a child from stealing is to watch him at all times while you are shopping and reprimand him when the act takes place. If this fails, take him to the store manager or other authoritative personnel and say something like "My son took this. Will you please tell him what happens to people who steal". Naturally, it is a more serious problem when teenagers and adults engage in shoplifting. A friend or family member may be extremely secretive, but if they engage in shoplifting regularly, there are usually giveaway clues as to their activities: (1) Extra unexplained income, (2) Possession of luxuries you know they cannot afford, (3) Secretive habits during certain times of the day, and/or (4) Lavish gifts on friends and acquaintances.

WHEN YOU DISCOVER A SHOPLIFTER

If it's a stranger in the illegal act, notify store personnel. If it's a friend or family member, warn him first. If this fails, convince him to see a doctor. As a last resort, you may have to notify police, to save him from ridicule, disgrace and extreme hardship later.

HOW TO PROTECT CARS, BICYCLES, MOTORCYCLES

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR CAR

Always lock your car doors. Be certain all windows are completely closed. When driving, keep all doors locked. It is best to park in attended lots. If you must leave a key with the attendant, leave only the ignition key. In all cases lock your car. At night, park only in well-lighted areas.

If you have a garage, the single lock on the door is inadequate to keep intruders from prying up the opposite side and crawling in. One of three methods may be used to secure the door:

1. Add another bolt and padlock on the opposite side, or
2. Install a pair of cane bolts to the inside - only operable from the inside, or
3. Add a top center hasp. any person of average height can operate this locking device. The hasp must be of hardened steel and installed with carriage bolts through the door or gate. Use large washers on the inside. After the nuts are secured, deface the threads of the bolt ends with a hammer to keep the nuts from being removed.

In every case, use a minimum standard exterior padlock. Don't hide a key outside. Most hiding places are obvious to the burglar. Never leave a padlock unlocked. This is an invitation to have the padlock removed so that a key can be made, and the lock returned to its position. Later, the burglar returns when no one is home and enters at his leisure, using "his" key.

HOW TO PROTECT BICYCLES

You don't leave your car unlocked, so treat your bicycle the same way. Use an approved chain and padlock whenever you are not on the seat! Lock it to the garage - with a 3/8" x 6" eye screw fastened to a stud. The eye screw should be at least 3 feet above the floor, because this makes using a pry bar much more difficult.
Whenever you lock your bike in a public place, chain it to a secure rack or stanchion through the frame and a wheel. Keep the chain as high above the ground as the bike will allow. This reduces the leverage for a pry bar or bolt cutter attack.

MINIMUM STANDARD FOR APPROVED CHAIN

Must be a least 5/16" hardened steel alloy. Links must be of continuous welded construction. Lighter chain, or chain with open links simply will not withstand bolt cutting attacks. Don't GIVE your bicycle away! Using anything less will invite its theft. HOW TO PROTECT MOTORCYCLES
These expensive bikes require additional security measures. They must be secured with a mated 3/8" hardened steel alloy chain and a padlock of equal strength. Sheathed cable has not proven to be a satisfactory deterrent to theft.

LIGHTING

Good exterior lighting is important, particularly when the yard area is obscured by high, non-removable shrubbery. The best possible location for outside lights is under the eaves. This makes ground level assault more difficult. You can buy an inexpensive timer or photo-electric cell which will automatically turn the lights on a dusk and turn them off at dawn.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR HOME WHILE AWAY

Be sure to lock before you leave, and let a neighbor have a key. When leaving your home, practice the following advice - it could pay big, big dividends.

GOING TO THE MARKET OR OUT TO DINNER?

A residence which presents a "lived-in" appearance is a deterrent to burglars. Never leave notes that can inform a burglar that your house is unoccupied. Make certain all windows and doors are secured before departing. An empty garage advertises your absence, so close the doors.
When going out at night, leave one or more interior lights on and perhaps have a radio playing (TV sets should not be left unattended). Timers may be purchased that will turn lights on and off during your absence.
Do not leave door keys under flower pots or doormats, inside an unlocked mailbox, over the doorway, or in other obvious places.

WHEN PLANNING VACATIONS OR PROLONGED ABSENCES

Discontinue milk, newspaper, and other deliveries by phone or in person ahead of time. Do not leave notes.
Arrange for lawn care and have someone remove advertising circulars and other debris regularly. On the other hand, several toys scattered about will create an impression of occupancy.
Notify the post office to forward your mail or have a trustworthy person pick it up daily. Apartment house tenants should also heed this hint since stuffed mail receptacles are a give-away when no one is home.
Inform neighbors of your absence so they can be extra alert for suspicious persons. Leave a key with them so your place may be periodically inspected. Ask them to vary the positions of your shades and blinds.
When you leave, do not publicize your plans. Some burglars specialize in reading newspaper accounts of other people's vacation activities.
If you find a door or window has been forced or broken while you were away, DO NOT ENTER. The criminal may still be inside. Use a neighbor's phone immediately to summon police.
Do not touch anything or clean up if a crime has occurred. Preserve the scene until police inspect for evidence.

ALWAYS REMEMBER TO

1. Lock before you leave.
2. Trust a neighbor with a key.
3. Be a concerned neighbor - yourself.

HOW TO BURGLAR-PROOF YOUR DOORS

The majority of devices mentioned in this report cost very little. All of them will help reduce burglary and make your house or apartment more secure.
Begin with a home "security" check. Start with the front door and work clockwise around the entire inside of your home, finishing with the back yard, fence and shrubs, gates and garage.
Shrubbery should never block the view of your front door. This allows an intruder the opportunity of privacy to gain entrance. A wide angle viewer in the door lets you know your visitor in advance. This item is recommended over a chain lock.

LOCKS, BOLTS AND HINGES

A DEAD-LATCH is an inexpensive lock set which keeps the burglar from simply slipping your door open with a plastic credit card. This method of entry is common in many areas, but very easy to prevent.

Auxiliary Deadbolt: 1" deadbolt, single cylinder with hardened cylinder guard, and thumb turn.
For extra security, a single cylinder dead bolt lock, with one inch throw and case-hardened insert, is recommended for all exterior doors. If you have easily breakable glass within 40 inches of a deadbolt lock, it should be augmented with a stronger type of glass or plastic to provide adequate security.
Most police departments do not recommend deadbolt locks for residential use. You may be adding additional security at the expense of personal safety with a double cylinder dead bolt. For example, you could lock yourself in and not be able to escape in case of fire or other emergency.

The Rim Lock: 1" dead bolt lock which is installed on the inside surface of the door. It is less expensive than other typed of locks, but equally effective for security.

The "Jimmy Proof" Rim Lock: is another lock which is installed on the inside surface of the door. But this lock has vertical dead bolts, which is an approved locking device.

Cane Bolts:: 1/2" in diameter by 12" high installed at the top & bottom of the inactive door offers minimum security.Many homes with pairs of doors, use half-barrel slide bolts on the inactive door. These are week and totally inadequate.

Flush Bolts:: Installed at the top and bottom of the inactive door or a pair of doors, flush bolts offer additional security, since the intruder cannot get at these devices to tamper with them if the doors are locked.

HINGE PROTECTION:

Some exterior doors are improperly installed so that the hinges are installed from outside. To protect such a door from being lifted from its hinges by pulling the hinge pin, follow these simple steps:

1. Remove two screws, opposite each other, from both leaves of the hinge.
2. Insert screw or concrete nail into jamb leaf, protruding 1/2".
3. Drill out the opposing screw hole in the door. Do this in the top and bottom hinge of the door. When closed, the hinge pins may be removed, but the door will remain firmly in place.

HOW TO BURGLAR-PROOF YOUR WINDOWS

Many burglars enter homes by simply breaking glass windows. A good deterrent is to have better quality glass installed at vulnerable points around the perimeter of your residence. Most burglars avoid attempting to break the following types of glass due to the fear of attracting attention:

Laminated Glass is made by a vinyl or plastic interlayer sandwiched between two layers of glass. This type of glass adds additional strength to your windows. To gain entry, a burglar would have to strike the glass repeatedly in the same spot in order to make a small opening. Most burglars are reluctant to create this type of noise for fear of being detected.

Tempered Glass is made by placing a piece of regular glass in an oven, bringing it almost to the melting point, and then chilling it rapidly. This causes a skin to form around the glass. Fully tempered glass is four to five times stronger than regular glass.

Wired Glass adds the benefit of a visible deterrent. Extra effort will be needed to break the glass and then cut through the wire located within the glass, in order to gain entry.

Plastics: Plastic material is divided into two types : acrylic or polycarbonate. The acrylics are more than ten times stronger than glass of the same thickness and are commonly called plexiglass. Polycarbonate sheets are superior to acrylics and are advertised as 250 times more impact resistant than safety glass, and 20 more times than other transparent plastic.

With Sliding Windows the primary objective is to keep the window from sliding or being lifted up and out of the track. There are many manufactured products available for securing windows.

Here are some of the suggestions:

Pinned Window Anti-Slide Block Slide Bolt: It is not recommended that you lock a window in a ventilated position. This is an invitation to a prying action which can result in entry. Key locking devices offer no real security, and they can be a fire exit hazard.

Casement Windows are the simplest to secure. Make sure the latch works properly and that the "operator" has no excess play. If so, replace the worn hardware.

Double Hung Window latches may be jimmied open. If a window is not used, screw it shut (except bedrooms). For windows in use, drill a sloping hole into the top of the bottom window, through and into the bottom of the top window, and insert an easily removable pin or nail.

Louvre Windows are bad security risks. Remove and replace with solid glass or other type of ventilating window. Or protect with a grate or grille (except bedrooms).

Warning: One window in every bedroom on the ground and second floor must be left available as a fire exit, particularly for children and guests in your home. At night, the bedroom window may often be the quickest and safest means of getting out. Because of the danger of fire, decorative grilles are not recommended on bedroom windows.

HOW TO SELECT A BURGLAR ALARM

Burglars dislike noise - it attracts attention. A barking dog is the best deterrent in preventing burglaries. However, a watch dog cannot always be depended upon. some professional burglars have been known to carry delectable "dog snacks" in their pockets - and with a full stomach, some watch dogs make friends easily and forget their purpose of guarding the premises. The most reliable safe-guard to protect your home and possessions is a reliable alarm. Many types of burglar alarms can be obtained for residential use. It is advisable, however, that basic hardware security measures be followed first. If additional security is desired, the following recommendations could be helpful.

1. Obtain estimates from three alarm companies, notifying each of this procedure.
2. An audible alarm is recommended over silent alarms for residential use in order to first protect persons and secondly, property.

Don't depend entirely upon an alarm system to protect you - be sure to use proper locking devices. Any alarm system should include:

A. A battery-powered fail-safe back-up.
B. Fire-sensing capability.
C. Read-out ability to check working of system.
D. Horn sounding device installed in attic through vent.

When shopping for an alarm system, take this list with you.
 

SECONDARY BARRIER

If the value of small personal items warrants protection, a secondary barrier is an additional safeguard. On a hinging closet door, install a 1" dead bolt lock. Store your jewels, furs, cameras, guns, silverware and other valuables behind this barrier. Be sure to "pin" the hinges (as outlined in "How To Burglar - Proof Your Doors"

HOW TO REDUCE CRIME IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

While we don't like to talk about it - or even think about it - crime is on the increase in America, and throughout the world. The number of burglars, muggers, auto thieves, robbers, purse snatchers, etc., is growing at an alarming rate. Now you, as a resident, working with neighbors can help reduce the crime rate.
How? By organizing and/or joining a neighborhood program in which you and your neighbors get together to learn how to protect yourselves, your family, your home and your property. Working together, you can get the criminals off your block and out of your area.
There's safety in numbers and power through working with a group. You'll get to know your neighbors better, and working with them you can reduce crime, develop a more united community, provide an avenue of communications between police and citizens, establish on-going crime prevention techniques in your neighborhood, and renew citizen interest in community activity.
"Citizens Safety Projects" are set up to help you do this. it is a joint effort between private citizens and local police. such programs have been started all over the country. Maybe one already exists in your community.
These organizations don't require frequent meetings (once a month or so). They don't ask anyone to take personal risks to prevent crime. They leave the responsibility for catching criminals where it belongs - with the police. This is NOT a "vigilante" group:
These groups gather citizens together to learn crime prevention from local authorities. You cooperate with your neighbors to report suspicious activities in the neighborhood, to keep an eye on homes when the resident is away, and to keep everyone in the area mindful of the standard precautions for property and self that should always be taken. Criminals avoid neighborhoods where such groups exist.
Through cooperation with local law enforcement agencies, some of the things you will learn - and all free - are:

1. What to do in an emergency.
2. How to best identify a suspicious person.
3. How to identify a vehicle being used in a suspected criminal activity.
4. Signs to watch out for before entering a house or apartment that may be in the process of being burglarized.
5. What to do in case of injury.
6. What to do about suspicious people loitering on your street.
7. How to identify stolen merchandise.
8. How to recognize auto theft in progress.
9. How to protect your house or apartment.
10. How to recognize a burglary in progress.
11. How to protect yourself and family - and much more.

It's easy to get your group started. All you have to do is contact your neighbors and arrange a date, place and time for the first meeting. Hold the meetings at your home or that of a neighbor. Try to plan a time that is convenient to most of your neighbors - preferably in the evening.
Then call your local police department. They will be happy to give your group informal lectures, free literature - and in many instances, window stickers and I.D. cards. Remember, police officers can't be everywhere. Your cooperation with them is for the benefit of you, your family, your neighbors and your neighborhood.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU'RE A CRIME VICTIM

911 SYSTEM

The 911 telephone system is standard nationwide to enable callers to reach emergency services by phone with a minimum of difficulty. If you have an emergency involving the safety of life or property, you are encouraged to make use of the system. In most areas, you may dial 911 from a pay phone without the need for coins. If your area has enhanced 911 with automatic number identification and automatic location identification, your name, address and telephone number will be displayed on a screen at the 911 operator's position when the connection is made. Help can be dispatched to your location even if you don't get a chance to say a word!

BURGLARY

If you arrive at your home or business and feel that it has been burglarized, DO NOT ENTER, but go to another location and call the police. Let the police search the property to make sure that no suspect is still present. Upon entering your home or business, do not touch things unnecessarily as you may disturb or destroy fingerprint and other evidence. Inform the police of anything that has been moved from its original position so that it can be checked for prints. Notify the police if you find anything that is not yours that may have been left behind by the burglar such as tools, clothing, etc. (Driver's licenses and other identification have been left behind by burglars before!) Be prepared to provide the police with serial numbers and a complete description of all missing property. Tell the police if you have engraved any of the items with your driver's license or other personalized number.

ROBBERY

You've heard it before and now here it is again: Never resist if you are the victim of a robbery. Do exactly as you are told to do in order to minimize your chances of being injured and to speed the departure of your assailant before he gets other ideas. The assailant, in most cases, doesn't want to hang around much longer than you want him to.
Your money and other valuables can hopefully be replaced. If they can't be replaced don't let that thought cause you to hesitate. You certainly cannot be replaced. Try to obtain a good description of the suspect(s) and the direction and mode (on foot, vehicle) of escape.
It's always a good idea to have a second billfold with a few dollars and a few important looking cards in it to give to an attacker should the need arise. Keep your real cash and cards in an interior pocket not easily accessible by the robber. Do not resist any attempt the attacker may make to search your pockets, however. CON GAMES

The object of any con game is to cause you to part with your money or other thing of value. Most con games are initiated by people who approach you on the street or call on you at your home. Be suspicious of ANY plan, idea, scheme, business deal or whatever that requires you to part with your money on short notice. If you feel you have been the victim of a con game or an illegal business practice, notify the police. Do not be embarrassed or hesitant to tell the authorities for fear of ridicule. The sooner you notify the police the greater your chances of recovering your property. You may not be the only victim of whatever group is operating, and your statements and those of other victims may help in apprehending the suspects.

HIT AND RUN ACCIDENT

If you are involved in a traffic accident and the other driver leaves the scene, immediately try to see and remember or record the license plate number and description of the vehicle and the driver. You may only have a few seconds to do this. Also try to notice where the damage is located on his vehicle. If you can SAFELY do so, and your vehicle is not disabled, and no one can do it for you, follow the suspect for a short distance to get the license plate number if you were not able to get it at the scene. The suspect will probably be exceeding the speed limit so do not get involved in anything resembling a pursuit. Don't compound the problem by committing traffic violations and causing another accident for which you may be held responsible. If you cannot get the information in a short distance, return to the scene and notify the police. If other motorists are nearby, try to find a volunteer to follow the suspect to get the license number.
Ask witnesses to remain or at least to leave their name and address and a written description of the suspect vehicle and driver.
Be suspicious of drivers who do stop following the accident but ask you or offer you money not to call the police. This should alert you to immediately start recording license plate and other information. These drivers may decide to leave quickly.
Contact a crime prevention specialist at your local law enforcement agency. They will provide you with the latest information on crime prevention. Ask about an on-site crime prevention survey of your home or business. Also ask if your agency has a program to loan out engraving tools. If so, borrow one and mark your valuables with your driver's license number or whatever number your agency recommends.

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