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SPOTLIGHT

Identity Theft Prevention

The week of October 17 - 24 is National Protect Your Identity Week. Each year, thousands of Americans fall victim to identity theft fraud. Don't let it happen to you.

Identity Theft Prevention Tips:

• Mail paid bills from the U.S. Post Office or official box rather than placing them in your house mailbox.
• Don't carry your Social Security card in your wallet. Your Social Security number is considered to be the gateway to your identity.
• Remove bank or credit card receipts from your car. Identity thieves would much rather have your personal account information than your stereo.
• Carry only the credit cards in your wallet that you use daily.
• Guard your personal information. Don't provide personal information over the phone unless you initiate the call.
• Report lost or stolen cards the moment you realize they are missing to limit your liability.
• Shred everything.

For more information on identity theft, visit the Federal Trade Commission website at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/.

Police Offer Halloween Safety Tips

Halloween is a cherish tradition that children look forward to. To help keep your trick-or-treaters, you, and your house safe, remember the following tips:

Homeowners:

• Clear your yard and sidewalk of any obstacles or decorations that may be hard to see in the dark
• Keep your house well lighted, both inside and out
• Activate your Neighborhood Watch group to help keep the neighborhood safe
• Report any suspicious or criminal activity to the police

While trick-or-treating:

• Go only to well-lit houses
• Do not enter a home unless accompanied by your parent
• Do not talk to strangers along the way
• Walk on the sidewalks, not in the street
• Travel in small groups
• Know your phone number and carry a cell phone for emergency telephone calls
• Be accompanied by an adult, if possible
• Bring treats home before eating them so your parents can inspect them
• Plan your route and share it with your parents
• Use flashlights
• Wear bright, reflective and flame retardant clothing

Adults:

• Make certain hooded costumes or masks do not block a child's vision; try makeup instead
• Accompany young children along their route
• Instruct older children to travel along a pre-established route and establish a return time
• Restrict trick-or-treating to homes with porch lights on
• Instruct children to never enter a strangers' home
• Have your trick-or-treaters bring home the candy before eating it so you can inspect their treats --- if in doubt, throw it out
• Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape
• Prepare your home for trick-or-treaters

For additional safety tips, contact the National Safety Council at www.nsc.org.

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