Majority of the offences committed by the persons are known to the victims - servant, watchman, craftsman etc.

• Criminals are generally not on police record

• Database of elderly people staying alone in the jurisdictions of various Police Stations are compiled with poor response.

• Servants information not provided to Police - fear of loosing servants

Mumbai Police with the help of Dignity Foundation, AGNI (Action for Good Governance and Networking in India) and Federation of Senior Citizens Organisation of Maharashtra is making efforts in motivating Sr. Citizens in this regard

DO'S AND DON'TS FOR YOU:
Employ a servant after verifying his real name, native address with the help of the nearest Police Station or through the security wardens of Dignity Foundation and AGNI

• Never discuss financial matters in front of your servant

• It is always safe to deposit your valuables in safe deposit vault of any Bank

• Treat your servant in a humane way

• Do not allow any of the relatives or friends of your servant to visit your house. If at all he has any frequent visitor, get his antecedents checked from police and try to keep the number of such persons.

• Make your neighbour know of you being staying alone. The Housing Society also needs to know this.

• Use of modern security gadgets is always advantageous. Door alarm, electronic eye bell etc. is available in market. Consult the professionals in this regard

• Install a peephole in your front door and always check the identification of strangers before you let them inside your home.

• Never leave spare keys in open or in the conventional hiding places

• Verify the identity of any repairmen. Use the telephone number listed in the phone book, not the one suggested by them

• Inform your society about the unacquainted visitors, so that their identity could be checked at the very gate of the society

• A well-designed electronic alarm system attached to the office of your Housing. Society or to the watchman’s cabin would be advisable so as to send alarm signals to all simultaneously

• When you admit a workman or a salesman, do not leave him alone at any time Security

Security at Home

• Never leave your doors open or unlocked

• Fit your front and back door with security gates (metal grills) for added protection

• Don't work in your backyard with your front door unlocked

• Never open the door to strangers, no matter what excuse they have for calling on you

• A peep-hole and safety chain will allow you to identify strangers without endangering yourself

• If you are in doubt, play it safe, never allow the strangers in

• A bright outside light is a good deterrent to potential burglars

• Make sure the number of your home is well signposted. This will help medical personnel or police in the event of an emergency

• Never hide your keys under pot-plants, mats or in your post box If you live alone, ask your friends, or family to phone you regularly Security in the Street

• When going out leave your valuables at home

• Never carry more cash than you need

• Don't walk in deserted or dark areas alone

• Carry your bag close to your body

• Keep your change in your purse or wallet and credit cards and notes in an inside pocket, never in the back pocket of your trousers

• If you are robbed in the street, stay calm and cooperate with the police. By fighting back you will get hurt. Be observant so that you can give maximum information to the police. Security in Public Transport

• Avoid waiting at deserted terminals, wait in well-lit areas

• Stand close to others who are waiting for the transport

• In a bus or train, be aware of people who look or act suspiciously, raise alarm
if need be

• If transport is partially empty, sit as close to the driver as possible

• When you reach the destination, take note of who leaves with you

• If you are being followed rush to nearest building and ask for help Security in your Car

• Make sure your car is in good condition so that you are not stranded in empty streets

• Don't leave package or personal item in full view on car seats, lock them in the boot

• Keep your doors locked and windows closed while driving

• Park your car in a well-lit area at night

• Never pick up hitch-hikers

• Beware of strangers who approach you at traffic lights

• If you are being followed, drive to the nearest police station

• If you are threatened, blow the horn continually Security while Shopping

• Never leave your handbag or purse in your trolley, even if it obscured by goods

• Never place your wallet or handbag on the counter and then move away even for a few seconds

• Beware of pickpockets, bag snatchers in shopping malls

• Do not keep your wallet or purse in a visible side or back pocket General

• Criminals know when pensions are due. So arrange for your pension to be paid into your bank or building society account

• Ask for help in danger and always wait for the help to arrive

• Keep your emergency numbers close at hand so that you have them available in the event of an emergency (neighbours, your doctor, the fire brigade, ambulance, police, close relative)