Family members can help when others are ready to get out again

By: 
Ron Craig, Crime Prevention/Community Policing Officer

        Now that Ohioans are getting vaccinated and the number of new coronavirus cases is beginning to subside, some people are thinking about going out again.
        Family members of seniors may want to give their elders some practical advice before they head out the door. Safety should be everyone’s priority, and this is no less important for seniors.
        Awareness of one’s surroundings is important for all of us but is more important for seniors. Keep scanning the area with your eyes to watch for suspicious persons. If you see someone acting suspiciously, avoid them. You can walk in a different direction until that person is no longer a potential threat to you. This may take you a few steps out of your way, but it is better than taking a chance at getting mugged or injured.
        There is some truth to the old adage, “safety in numbers.” Take someone along and you may reduce your chances of trouble.
        Just in the last week or so, an elderly woman fell victim to a thief in Toledo who stole her purse in a grocery store parking lot while she was walking alone. The thief also pushed the woman to the asphalt parking lot causing injuries.
        Women should give some thought before leaving the house as to whether they really need that big purse. If all they need is a credit or debit card and a driver’s license, there is no need for a purse. Leave it at home.
        Try to store valuables, including recent purchases, out of sight in a trunk or covered area of your vehicle. Many people are driving SUVs that may have a cover for the rear of the vehicle. If yours doesn’t have a cover, take a blanket to cover up valuable items.
        If your vehicle has a remote with a door lock/unlock feature, unlock your door before you get to your vehicle. When you get to your car, get in right away and lock your doors immediately.
        If you feel you are being followed, call 9-1-1 or head to the nearest police station. It is a good idea to know where police stations in the area are at so that if you need help, you know where to go.
        Some people carry self-defense sprays such as pepper spray. Don’t get overconfident if you carry this item because it may be difficult to reach it, get it out, and activate it while you are being attacked.
        Remember that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Think ahead about safety and crime prevention.
This article is a public service from the Community Policing/Crime Prevention Division of the Lake Township Police Department. Township residents may obtain further information on crime prevention and public safety topics by contacting Ron Craig, crime prevention specialist/community policing officer, at 419-481-6354.

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