As an older or vulnerable person, there are a number of things you can do to keep yourself secure at   home. Remember that Fife is a relatively safe place to live and it is unlikely that you will ever have   an intruder. If you have crime or safety concerns about your neighbourhood then you should get in   touch with your local Community Police who will be happy to discuss these with you.

 There are a number of other agencies you can contact for help and advice such as the Citizens   Advice Bureau and Age Scotland.

 One of the best actions you can take to make your place safer is to get to know your neighbours.   Contact your local Neighbourhood Watch group for more advice.

 

 Think ahead

 »» Don’t open the door to strangers.

     Install a peephole in your door. If  you don’t know someone, keep the door closed.

 »» Have a phone by your bed.

 »» Make an arrangement with a Neighbour to phone or visit you if  your curtains are still drawn after a

     certain time in the morning.

 »» Have a personal or medical alarm that you can press in an emergency.

 »» Never tell someone that you are alone in the house.

 »» Get a “Message in a bottle” from Age Scotland, Fife Cares or Neighbourhood Watch. In an emergency the      Green Sticker on your fridge will alert the police, ambulance or fire service that vital information about you      is available inside the refrigerator.

 »» Ask for a security checklist From Neighbourhood Watch. (See Property section page)

 

 Don’t be tricked

 »» If someone you don’t know asks to make a phone call from your home, get the phone number and offer to

    make the call yourself. They don’t need to enter your home and you don’t need to open the door.

 »» Never do business with strangers who come to the door, phone you or contact you via email.

 »» Never talk to strangers about your financial affairs.

 »» Never give out your Name and Address or chat if you receive a wrong number phone call.

 »» Use tried and trusted tradespeople. Get several quotes. Ask your family to recommend someone, or contact

    Age Scotland. Some neighbourhood watches keep a list of good tradesmen who have worked in their area.

 

 If you are cheated, tell the Police. You could help the Police catch the criminal, and stop   other people from being cheated.

 If you suspect an older person is being cheated or abused, contact Citizens Advice   Bureau, Age Scotland, your community Constable or local Police for advice.

 

Safety Advice for the Mature or Vulnerable Members of Society

Fife Neighbourhood Watch Association

Advice relating to Bogus Callers, Sneak in Theft and Rogue Traders