Stay safe by being aware of the following tips provided by law enforcement and community advocates from around the State of Indiana. Additionally, consult recent news and fraud alerts posted at IndianaConsumer.com by the Indiana Attorney General.

BE ALERT WHEN OUT AND ABOUT!

• Go with friends or family, not alone.
• Carry your purse close to your body, not dangling.
• Put your wallet in an inside or front pants pocket.
• Don't carry extra credit cards or excess cash.
• Passenger or driver, keep car doors locked; be especially alert in parking lots or garages. Park as near an entrance as possible.
• Sit close to the driver or near the exit when riding a bus, train, or subway.
• If someone or something makes you uneasy, trust your instincts; leave.

• Install good locks on doors and windows. Use them! Don't hide keys in mailboxes or under doormats. Give an extra set to a neighbor or friend.
• Ask for photo ID from service or delivery people before letting them into your house. If you are the least bit worried, call the company.
• Be sure your street address is large and easily visible so that police or emergency people can find your home quickly.
• Consider a home alarm system that provides emergency monitoring for burglary, fire, and medical emergencies.

WATCH OUT FOR CON ARTISTS!

• Don't fall for anything that sounds too good to be true - a free vacation, sweep-stake prizes, miracle cures for cancer or arthritis, cheap home repairs, etc.
• Never give your credit card, phone card, Social Security, or bank number to anyone over the phone.
• Don't let anyone rush you into signing anything -- an insurance policy, a sales agreement, or contract. Read it carefully, or let someone you trust read it.
• Beware of individuals claiming to represent companies, consumer organizations, or government agencies that offer to recover money from fraudulent telemarketers for a fee.
• If you're suspicious, check it out with the police, the Better Business Bureau, or your local consumer Protection office. Call the National Consumer Fraud Information Center at 800-8786-7060.
• Do not pay for handy work in advance.
• NEVER SIGN A BLANK CHECK!
• Use direct deposit for monthly pension or Social Security checks.
• Do not use ATMs that are isolated.

GET INVOLVED IN THE COMMUNITY!

• Report any crime or suspicious activity to police.
• Get to know your neighbor, and work out a "buddy" system to look out for each other.
• Work to change conditions that hurt your neighborhood. Volunteer as tutor for children, mentor for teens, or escort for individuals with disabilities.

CHECK THESE OTHER TIPS!

• When you are out, make your home appear occupied -- leave a light on or a radio playing.
• Keep bonds, stock certificates, coin collections in a safety deposit box.
• Don't keep large sums of cash in your home.
• Don't discuss your finances with strangers.

STAYING SAFE AT ANY AGE is reprinted here through the courtesy of Orange County TRIAD.