"Exercise Caution When Opening the Door to a Stranger" |
 Do not allow yourself or family members to be lulled into a false sense of security just because you are at home. Be vigilant and observant
of changes in your surroundings.
Exercise caution when opening the door to a stranger. Use a peephole or window to verify the identity of anyone that you do not
know.
Use an intercom if you have one and do not be afraid to ask to see the credentials of anyone that you are not expecting or do not recognize. If possible, check
to see if their credentials match any signage on their vehicle. When in doubt, always err on the side of safety.
If a service company insists on giving you a wide window of time for their visit, ask that the serviceman give you a telephone call when they are headed your
way. Ask them to come to the door that you are most comfortable with and the one that is easiest for you to verify their identity.
Share these safety tips with your housekeeper and baby sitter. They are not as likely to recognize friends and guests who would otherwise be welcome. As a result,
they are at a greater disadvantage and especially vulnerable. Make sure they have your cell phone number handy and are not afraid to call if they suspect trouble.
Have a plan in place and rehearse what you might say when you are not comfortable opening the door to a stranger. Share this with your children and make certain
they know what to do and who to call if they suspect trouble. Children, especially younger ones, are excited by the arrival of visitors and often are the first ones to run to the door.
If you are home alone, answer the door with a phone against your ear, making it appear as though you are talking to someone. This can discourage and help thwart
the plans of a “would be” assailant. If the person apologizes, saying that he has made a mistake about the address, be sure to report this to the police immediately. You might be helping a less cautious neighbor from being a
victim of a serious crime.
Keep your garage door closed. This keeps a "would be" assailant from gaining entry via the overhead door that can be closed behind him.
If you have a security system, get in the habit of using the perimeter portion of it when asleep. You may accidentally set the system off a few times in the
morning, but it should easily become part of your wake up routine. If your system has the capability of sending a duress alarm, have your security company install a few hidden “silent alarm” buttons near the front door, kitchen,
and master bath.
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