January 15, 2010
- STAY SAFE
Dear Mrs. Figgins:
My father recently passed away and my mother lives alone. I’m doing everything possible to talk her into moving in with us but she’s resisting every step of the way.
My parents are from a small town and have always been very trusting people. They’ve never known a stranger. That’s my worry.
Last month she let a “salesman” in to go over “re-piping” the house. She forgot that Father had that done 3 years ago. Fortunately, I happen to stop by – so I was able to put a stop to that sales pitch.
Until we can lasso her into moving with us, I want to make sure she learns boundaries. Do you have any suggestions?
Worried in Wisconsin
Dear Worried:
My goodness, isn’t this a different world we live in, that we need to worry about such things. Unfortunately, we do.
It’s obvious you love your Mother and worry about her.
Any woman living alone needs to take precautions to ensure safety. Simple changes in routine and home security will make her and you feel more comfortable until you can “lasso” her.
Go over these tips with your Mother. It’s a good idea to type the list out for her.
Keep strangers out. Find out who has keys to the house and how long it’s been since all the locks have been changed? It’s a good idea to change ALL the locks. Only trusted family members should have extra keys in event of emergency.
Know the person before opening the door. ALWAYS check who is at the door before answering or opening it to a potentially dangerous individual.
Keep all doors locked & windows secured when you are home, and when you are not home. If you keep an open window, make sure there is absolutely no way that a stranger could climb in.
A person in uniform is not always there to help. If there is someone at the door in uniform, ask for identification. If there is anything suspicious, call the police.
Have a list of emergency numbers close to all telephones.
Make sure the house is well lighted, including around the doors. If you cannot see who is ringing the door bell, do not open the door. Well-lit doorways don’t provide cover for thieves.
Keep shades & blinds closed. Don’t keep shades “parted”.
Keep personal information PRIVATE. Mailboxes can be very telling. Therefore, only have your initials on the mailbox at most – not your full name. The same goes for telephone directories or any other directory to avoid announcing that a single woman lives alone.
If you can afford an alarm system do get one. There are affordable options.
Be aware of your surroundings. Be prepared. When you walk into your home, don’t dawdle. Carry your keys in your hand as a defensive tool. ALWAYS be aware of your surroundings.
Listen to your inner voice.
DON’T TAKE CHANCES!
Mrs. Figgins
How To,Love,advice
