How do we ensure our safety when many of us older adults are alone at home during the day or even all the year round. Here are some tips on safety measures to keep you safe.
Dos & Don’ts
· Police Verification: Employ a servant after verifying his name & native address with the help of the nearest Police Station. This is a very simple and easy process:
Ask for the current and permanent address and ID proofs of your domestic help and retain a photocopy for your records.
Ask for previous employer references even if the domestic help is coming through word-of-mouth referral or through a domestic help agency.
Retain a current photograph of the domestic help.
On the police websites of certain states, verification forms are available, which can be downloaded, filled up and then submitted at your local police station along with a photograph and details of the help you have hired. Fill all the required details and submit the application form at your local police station.
· Do not allow any of the relatives or friends of your servant to visit your house. If at all he has frequent visitors, get their antecedents checked from the police and try to keep the number of such persons to a minimum.
· Never discuss financial matters in front of your servant
· It is always wise to deposit your valuables in the safe deposit vault of a Bank. Even if you keep cash or jewellery at home, you should not discuss it, especially in front of any servants, delivery boys or service persons.
· Tell your neighbour, when your family is away and you are staying alone.
· Install good locks on doors and windows and use them
· Use modern security gadgets like – a door alarm, camera, electronic eye bell etc. that are available in the market. Alternatively, install a home alarm system that provides monitoring for burglary, fire and medical emergencies.
· Always check the identification of strangers before you let them inside your home.
· When someone knocks at your door, don’t open it unless you know your visitor.
· If the person is a representative, salesman etc., ask for photo identification and credentials to be slipped under the door or through the mail slot. Call the employer to verify the name and business. Use the telephone number listed in the phone book or website, not the one suggested by them. Refuse to deal with anyone who won’t comply with this request.
· Someone may knock at your door and ask to use your telephone to make an emergency call. Never open the door. Take the message and make the call for them.
· If someone comes to your door who you do not trust or who you believe might be dangerous, call the local police department immediately.
· When you admit a workman or a salesman, do not leave him alone at any time
· Never leave spare keys in the open or in mailboxes and planters or under doormats. Instead, leave an extra set of keys with a neighbour or friend.
· In case of electricity failure, it’s advisable to keep flashlights and a set of batteries on a convenient table.
· To avoid accidents due to fires, install smoke alarms in the kitchen
· Be sure your street address number is large, clear of obstruction, and well-lit so that Police and other emergency personnel can find your home quickly.
When returning home
· If you find your door ajar or if you hear unusual sounds inside, DON’T GO IN!
· Go to the nearest telephone and call your local police or PCR Van.
· DO NOT resist or fight with an intruder.
· When the intruder leaves, call the local police immediately.
- Compiled by Anita Natu
Sources:
https://police.py.gov.in/Senior%20Citizens/Dos%20and%20Donts.htm