Precautions to Take at Home

If you are a woman alone, list only your last name and initials on your mailbox or in the phone directory.

If you just moved into a new residence, change all locks. You never know who might have a key. Install a through-the-door peephole so you can see anyone outside your door before you open it.

Don't rely on chain locks. They are great privacy locks, but they are not security locks. Install good security locks.

Never dress in front of windows; always draw your shades.

Never let anyone-repairmen, police officers, etc.-into your home without proper identification. Ask for identification.

Never let strangers use your phone no matter what they say. If necessary, you call the police.

Always leave outside lights on after dark.

It is better to wait for an empty elevator than to get on one with a strange person.

If you receive wrong number calls, don't give out your name or phone number.

If you receive obscene phone calls, quietly hang up and call the police. In an apartment building, try never to be alone in the laundry room.

If you suspect someone is in your house, don't go in or call out. Call the police from your neighbor's house.

If you see or hear something or someone suspicious, call the police.