How to stay safe

York | Archive | 2005 | May | 30

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How to stay safe

From the Evening Press, first published Monday 30th May 2005.

WE at Help The Aged were concerned to read your report "OAP fights off robber" (May 19) when an older couple from Acomb experienced such a despicable attack.

Although statistically we know older people are the least at risk of crime, stories like this can raise the fear of crime and that can affect older people's health.

Therefore, we offer older readers of the Eving Press advice on personal safety when they are out and about.

Plan your route before you go and try to use busy well-lit areas.

It is a good idea to spread your money and valuables around your body. For example, keep your keys in your coat pocket and your money in a closely carried bag.

Keep valuables out of sight and don't carry large sums of money.

Before you use a cashpoint check that there is no one "hovering" about.

If you use a wheelchair, keep your things beside you rather than hanging them on the back of the chair.

If someone tries to snatch something from you it may be best to let them take it.

Shout loudly to grab attention in an emergency.

Consider carrying a personal alarm.

Older readers can get information from the Help The Aged free advice leaflet called Your Security.

For a free copy, visit the Help The Aged shop, download it from www.helptheaged.org.uk.

Alternatively send an sae to Information Resources Team (YS), Help the Aged, 207-221 Pentonville Road, London N1 9UZ.

Theresa Harris,

National information

resources manager,

Help The Aged,

Pentonville Road,

London.

Updated: 08:46 Monday, May 30, 2005

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