Use common sense when somebody knocks

Another campaign season is in full swing. Having had numerous knocks on my door from canvassers, I started to think about home security. I mean, how do we really know who these people are? Anyone can make a campaign button or carry a clipboard.

Now, I am not out to scare anyone, but gone are the days when it was safe to let unknown people into your home or to leave doors unlocked.

I found the following tips for safety, not only in the home but elsewhere:

. It gets dark earlier now, so make sure the outside of your home is well lit. Motion-activated sensor lights can make it almost impossible for someone to approach your home unseen. And there is no worry of turning them on and off – the sensor part does it for you. These lights are typically not expensive and easy to install. However, if you need help, call Eastern Agency on Aging’s Eaa-Z Fix It minor home repair program for assistance.

. Trim all the bushes away from windows and doors. These could be good hiding places for burglars.

. Keep your curtains closed at night. It is unbelievable how many people are going about their business at home, in clear view of passers-by. Not that I am personally looking, mind you.

. Report all strangers lurking in the area to police. They may be harmless, but better safe than sorry.

. If you live alone, add “dummy names” to your mailbox.

. Never announce on your answering machine that you are away. Just say that you and the “dummy name” on your mailbox cannot come to the phone.

. Install peepholes in all outside doors.

. If you have a garage door, keep it closed. An empty garage is a clear signal that you are not at home – not to mention that things in the garage could be stolen.

. Keep all windows locked, including basement windows. And sliding glass doors should be secured with something in the track so the door cannot not be opened by anyone but you.

. Never talk openly about which medications you take, especially in a crowded public place.

. If you lose a house key, have the locks changed as a precaution.

Now for your car. It is wonderful to get out in the world to do volunteer work, see friends or soon do holiday shopping. Just be sure to carry the “safety mindset” with you when you leave your home.

. Whether in or out of your car, keep the doors locked at all times.

. Don’t let yourself be laden down with packages. That makes for an easy target. Use a shopping cart or make more than one trip to the car to unload if at the mall. Your car key should be in your hand and ready to open the door.

. Always check the floor and back seat of your car to make sure no one is hiding there.

. It is tempting to stop and help someone in trouble, but don’t. Use your cell phone to report the person’s location.

. Be sure you always have enough gas to get where you are going – and back again.

. If you feel you are being followed, do not go home. Drive to the police station or nearest busy restaurant or convenience store, where other people will be around. If the person is persistent and still behind you, don’t get out of the car. Instead, blow the horn for attention.

While doing some of these things may make you feel a little paranoid, it sure beats the alternative. Think safety first, last and always.

Carol Higgins Taylor is director of communications at Eastern Area Agency on Aging. Email Higgins Taylor at chtaylor@eaaa.org. For information on EAAA, call 941-2865, toll-free 800-432-7812, e-mail info@eaaa.org or log on EAAA.org. TTY 992-0150.