Residence and visitors of the Mount Isa Laura Johnson Home received a visit from Acting Sergeant Aimee Sewell who presented on senior safety and security.
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This session focused on personal safety, home and vehicle security as well as information on how to keep yourself safe in the digital world.
The group addressed the common myth that older people in our community are more likely to be victims of crime than other age groups.
The reality is that seniors are relatively safe compared to other age groups due to their lifestyles including being less likely to go out at night, spending more time at home and are generally taking more precautions.
Acting Sergeant Sewell said that the session addressed the issues of unnecessary fear of victimisation that can lead to a lack of confidence, decrease in quality of life and health as well as social isolation.
"Seniors have the right to feel safe in their own home," Sgt Sewell said.
"It is important that they enjoy their home, community and lifestyle in comfort and security.
"These sessions provide our seniors with additional information and tips to keep themselves and their properties as safe as possible."
An area of discussion was home security and the things everyone can do to protect themselves, including:
- Making sure all external doors are solids and fitted with deadlocks
- Adding perspex guards to security screens so offenders are unable to reach the locks
- Ensure keys are not left in doors or windows
- Consider installing intruder alarms and/or motion sensors
- Importance of maintaining your yard and visibility to your property
- Making sure your street number is highly visible for emergency services
Seniors also received valuable information regarding carrying money in public places such as shopping centres.
All participants were encouraged to avoid carrying large sums of money and to never leave their handbag or wallet unattended.
They were encouraged to spread money around in different pockets to potentially reduce the risk of losing all money.
"It is important that all seniors have a safety network, a group of people that they trust and who will regularly check on their personal safety and welfare," Sgt Sewell said.
"Home security audits are available to all seniors in our community."
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