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MOBILITY IMPAIRED PERSONS

CRIME PREVENTION TIPS

Mobility impaired or disabled persons face many challenges. This could make them vulnerable to would-be assailants who assume the mobility impaired or disabled are incapable of protecting themselves.

LOOK OUT FOR YOURSELF

Stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings, whether on the street, in an office building or shopping mall, driving, or waiting for a bus or subway.
Send the message that you're calm, confident, and know where you're going.
Be realistic about your limitations. Avoid places or situations that put you at risk.
Know the neighborhood where you live and work. Check out the locations of police and fire stations, public telephones, hospitals, restaurants, or stores that are open and accessible.
Avoid establishing predictable patterns. Most of us have daily routines, but never varying them may increase your vulnerability to crime.

AT HOME

Put good locks on all your doors. Sturdy dead bolt locks are best. Make sure you can easily use the locks that are installed.
Install peepholes on the front and back doors at your eye level. This is especially important if you are in a wheelchair.
Get to know your neighbors. Watchful neighbors, who look out for you as well as themselves, are a front line defense against crime.
If you have difficulty speaking, have a friend record a message (giving your name, address, and type of disability) to use in emergencies. Keep the tape in a recorder next to your phone.
Ask your police department to conduct a free home security survey to help identify your individual needs.

OUT AND ABOUT

If possible, go with a friend.
Stick to well-lighted, well-traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts through vacant lots, or alleys.
Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket. If you use a wheelchair, keep your purse or wallet tucked snugly between you and the inside of the chair.
If you use a knapsack, make sure it is securely closed.
Always carry your medical information, in case of an emergency.
Consider carrying a cellular phone on your person or in your vehicle.

BEFORE GOING ON VACATION

Plan ahead. If you're traveling by car, get maps and plan your route. Have the car checked before you leave.
Leave copies of the numbers of your passport, driver's license, credit cards, and traveler's checks with a close friend or relative in case you need to replace these papers.
Put lights and a radio on timers to create the illusion that someone is at home while you're away. Leave shades, blinds, and curtains in normal positions. Stop mail and deliveries or ask a neighbor to take them in.

ON PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Use well-lighted, busy stops. Stay near other passengers. Sit by the driver.
Stay alert! Don't doze or daydream!
If someone harasses you, make a loud noise or say" Leave me alone." If that doesn't work hit the emergency signal on the bus or train.

DON'T LET A CON ARTIST RIP YOU OFF

Many con artist prey on people's desires to find miracle cures for chronic conditions and fatal diseases. To outsmart those con artists, remember these tips:

If it sounds too good, it probably is. Don't let greed or desperation overcome your common sense.
Get a second opinion.
Be wary of high-pressure tactics, need for decisions, demands for cash only, or high yield low- risk investments.

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