Emily Stone's crime Watch Tip #24 - Holiday Safety

It’s the holiday time again!

This is the time where many of us are busy, with not only everyday things, but with shopping, holiday decorating, parties, and much more. This is also the time where we need to be careful in protecting our families and homes from burglaries, identity theft, and assault.

The holidays are a time where potential criminals use it to their advantage because often times we are distracted and not staying vigilant.

Here are a few simple reminders for home and shopping safety during the holiday season.

Home safety:

1. Be extra cautious about locking ALL windows and doors when you leave the house, even if you’re gone for only a few minutes. Also, make sure that your windows and doors are properly bolted (updated) for added security.

2. Be careful of large displays of holiday gifts visible through windows and doors of your home. This can be too tempting for “would be” burglars.

3. If you’re leaving your home for any extended length of time, have a neighbor, friend, or family member keep an eye on your home and pick up newspapers and mail.

4. Have indoor and outdoor lights on an automatic timer.

5. If possible, leave a radio or television on to give the appearance of an occupied home.

Shopping Safety:

1. Try to do your holiday shopping during daylight hours, if possible. If you have to shop at night, go with a friend or family member.

2. Dress comfortably and casually, and avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

3. Try NOT to carry a purse or wallet, if possible. Always carry your driver’s license or ID card, checks or credit cards that you plan on using for your shopping excursion. Try to keep these items in a front pocket.

4. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Try to pay for purchases with a check or credit card whenever possible.

5. If your credit card(s) are lost or stolen, notify the credit card issuer immediately. Also, if it has been stolen, notify the police and file a report. Make sure to keep a record of ALL your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.

6. ALWAYS stay alert to your surroundings day or night.

7. Avoid overloading yourself with packages. Make sure that you have a clear visibility and are able to move around freely.

8. Keep packages out of plain view in your car. Try to put them in the trunk or out of plain sight.

9. Beware of strangers approaching you for ANY reason. This time of year where there are many “con artists” that will try to distract your attention to take your belongings or money.

Most of all, have a wonderful holiday season with family and friends.

Check out ALL of Emily’s Crime Watch Tips:
www.emilystonecrimewatch.blogspot.com

Jennifer Chase
Award Winning Author & Criminologist

Blog: www.authorjenniferchase.blogspot.com
Crime Watch: www.emilystonecrimewatch.blogspot.com
Book & Crime Talk: www.blogtalkradio.com/jennifer-chase
Website: www.jenniferchase.vpweb.com

Emily Stone's Crime Watch Tip # 19 - Neighborhood Watch Groups

Police Departments across the country are learning that community participationin anti-crime programs is essential. One of the most effective ways to promote citizens interactionwith police is sharing of information. Citizen groups determine specific needs or problems and then share this information with local police.

The Neighborhood Watch concept is designed to target specific geographical areas and to assist citizens in these areas to;

• Establish and organizational structure and create an information sharing network.


• Help to introduce neighbors and create social ties that will help them work together.


• Allow police to train citizens on how to be proactive by preventing crime and how to recognize and report criminal activities.


• Access information and assistance from police and of the Government agencies that can help improve living conditions.


• Provide the community with a strong unified voice to inform community leaders on programs and actions that the people support.

For more information contact your local police precinct and see what programs they have available.

Also, many areas now have ways that you can inform the Police of strange circumstances in your neighborhoodthrough the PC, Phone, and even by sending a Text Message remaining confidential. This system, if available,works very well and many crimes have been prevented with this program.

Never try and be a hero, if something does not look right or you think you hear gunshots call the Police immediately. Do not think that someone else is making the call. The more calls the Police receive the more they will realizethe potential higher crime areas.

Working together as a community is important and adding on the Police and keeping them informed will help your neighborhood be a safer place to live.

Emily’s Crime Watch – Tip #18 (Investment Scams)

The age-old saying, “If it seems to be too good to be true, then it probably is” holds true most of the time.

Has this every happened to you or someone you know? You receive a call or letter from a so-called broker offering some type of investment tip. It can actually be a well-scripted, elaborate scam. First they get your confidence because they state they don’t want any money from you, etc. Then after the third or fourth phone call or letter, they have a great opportunity with no risk to you for a certain $$$.

In this day and age, money is tight, taxes are high, and budgets are being squeezed. We all want to make more money to give family and ourselves a little breathing room and some financial freedom.

What should you do?

1. Work with trusted professionals.Ask for references on any broker or financial group you’re considering investing with and actually call these references. Make sure that your broker answers all your questions.
2. Know when to hang up the phone.Ignore unsolicited calls. Never give out ANY personal information, even if they say they are representing your bank or credit card company.
3. Take the time to really look at the proposal.Don’t make a quick, hasty decision. Allow it to sit and do your homework.
4. Watch your credit cards.Always shred and carefully store any credit card receipts. Make it a habit to always review your credit card statements each month.
5. Take a step back and know when you’re the most vulnerable.If you’re in a vulnerable situation, it can make it easier to fall victim to a scam. Know exactly what you’re investing in and take the necessary steps outlined above before you act. Don’t let fear drive your investment.
6. Be wary of something that you want to hear.Anyone who is trying to sell something, even the legitimate ones, know how to make a hard sale based on people’s hopes and dreams. Listen, but make your decision on the entire picture with the “worst case” and “best case” scenarios.
7. Remember, if it seems to good to be true, it probably is too good to be true.It’s generally best not to buy on a “hot tip” or when it’s offered to “only a select group of people”. Do your homework and only make investments that you can afford and afford to lose.

Finally, if you believe that you or anyone you know are being targeted for a scam, REPORT IT IMMEDIATELY to law enforcement.

Jennifer Chase

Award Winning Author & Criminologist
Author Blog: www.authorjenniferchase.blogspot.com/

Website: www.jenniferchase.vpweb.com/

Emily Crime Watch - Tip # 17 (Online Safety)

It’s difficult to find someone today who isn’t online surfing the Internet, exchanging email, and participating in online social networks. It’s incredible to realize how far we’ve come in our technology and communication activities within the past ten years.

With all the great technological advancement, there also comes the more devious aspects to it as well. Think about how you use your computer and what information you’ve shared.

There are some safety tips that everyone should be familiar with in their online environment to make it the most positive and fun experience.

General Tips:
*Understand how different networking sites work before you decide to . What are the benefits and downfalls? Know how others will view your pages and your information.

*Take charge of your profile and use controls over your information and restrictions to your page.

*Keep your full name, Social Security number, phone number, address, and any banking information private and to yourself.

*Post ONLY information that you feel comfortable with others seeing and knowing about you. Take the time to think about this before you post anything. Remember, you can’t take the information back once it’s posted.

*Trust your gut instinct if you have any suspicions or if someone threatens you. Report it to the police.

General Security:
*Don’t use public or shared computers for online banking transactions.

*Never give out your account information or passwords.

*Be cautious about opening any attachment or download from emails regardless of who sent them. Make sure that you have an up to date virus software, spyware, and firewall on your computer.

*Delete junk mail without reading it.

*Don’t “unsubscribe” to unwanted or unsolicited emails. This just alerts senders that they’ve reached a valid email address. Don’t sign up for free offers.

Parent Alert Tips:
*Teach your children about privacy and personal information. You can encourage them to post information only with your permission and supervision.

*Explore the Internet with your children and keep the computer in a common area.

*Show your children the difference between and advertisement and entertainment.

*Be aware of places your child is using on the Internet, such as friend’s house or library. Consider safeguarding options, such as blocking, filtering and monitoring.

*Discuss with your children if they ever feel threatened or uncomfortable to tell an adult immediately.

Helpful websites for more information:

Federal Trade Commission
www.OnGuardOnline.gov

ConnectSafely
www.connectsafely.org

Cyberbully411
www.cyberbully411.org

GetNetWise
www.getnetwise.org

Internet Keep Safe Coalition
www.iKeepSafe.org


Jennifer Chase
Author & Criminologist

Look out For Me on Facebook!

I would love to hear from you. Come join me on Facebook. I enjoy comments, questions, and discussions about crime and thriller/mystery novels.

Have a fantastic weekend!

Be safe!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Jennifer-Chase/117867998235724

Jennifer Chase

Author & Criminologist

Blog: www.authorjenniferchase.blogspot.com

Website: www.jenniferchase.vpweb.com

Current Novels Written By Jennifer Chase

"Compulsion"

"Dead Game"

Emily’s Crime Watch – Tip #16 (Personal Safety Devices)

There are many types of security products available now to carry as personal safety devices. It’s a good idea to have at least one of the recommended devices to carry with you. By carrying a security product, it will not guarantee to prevent crimes, but it will serve you well and most likely help to divert any criminal activity.

It’s always a good idea to be prepared. In addition to personal security devices, make sure that you’re always aware and vigilant of your surrounding at all times. Stay safe!

WARNING!

Be sure to check with your local police department, community service officer, or security expert to make sure that these are legal security devices that you can carry in your area or state. Also, check laws of other states that you plan to visit.

1. Pepper Spray

This is quite effective and it can only take a few seconds to affect someone’s mucous membranes. It will cause tearing and choking in 30 seconds or more and allow for you to escape the potentially dangerous situation. It comes in various types: mist, fog, foam, or stream. Be aware that a mild breeze can cause the spray to come back to you.

2. Child Alarms

This is also quite effective if your child wanders away, usually beyond 30 feet.

3. Alarms or Noisemakers

These types of devices, when continued to shriek until deactivated, are helpful because a potential attacker doesn’t want to tangle with or chase a noisy target.

4. Doorstop Alarms for Motels/Hotels

This is a great idea for added security if you’re traveling, especially alone. It won’t stop a possible intruder, but it will alert you and others to the activity.

5. Whistles

This is also a good safety device, but the alarms and noisemakers are better option.

6. Stun Guns

This type of security device produces an electrical arc that would probably scare off a “would be” attacker. However, you generally have to be close to the subject against bare skin, and clothing is a hindrance to be effective.

7. Stun Lights

This device acts like camera flash bulb and will briefly impair an attacker’s vision.

8. Skunk Sprays

What can be worse than the stench of a skunk?

9. Dye Sprays

This will mark a criminal to help authorities catch him afterwards, but that doesn’t go to preventing a potential crime.

It’s important to know all your options with personal safety devices and choose the one that’s right for you. Talk to your local police department or safety expert for more information.


Jennifer Chase
Author & Criminologist

Other Blog:
www.authorjenniferchase.blogspot.com

You Can Purchase both of Author Jennifer Chases Novels directly from Jennifer (Signed) Right Here!

Emily’s Crime Watch – Tip #15 - Out for the Night on the Town

There are times that we find ourselves going out at night for fun or a special celebration. You could be going to a restaurant or nightclub to meet friends. Or, you could be meeting someone for the first time in a public place.

It’s so important to remember that even though you’re in a pubic place, you still need to be alert and vigilant about what’s going on around you. This is true for both women and men.

Here are some simple safety tips to remember as you venture out into the nightlife for fun and entertainment:

. Be sure to tell someone, friend, neighbor, or family member where you’re going.

· DO NOT accept drinks from someone if you didn’t see the drink being prepared.

· DO NOT leave your drink unattended for ANY period of time -- EVER.

· DO NOT leave your purse or handbag unattended for ANY period of time.

· Carry a cell phone and always have enough money for a taxi ride home if necessary.

· If at all possible, arrange a buddy system with a friend to keep watch of one another.
· Know where all emergency and/or fire exits are in the building. Know your outside surroundings, such as streets, landmarks, etc.

· If you plan on drinking, ALWAYS have a designated driver or take a taxi.

· NEVER leave a bar or nightclub with stranger.

· If you’re being a harassed or if something doesn’t seem right to you don’t hesitate to report it to a security guard, nightclub bouncer, or the police.Most importantly…

Have a great time!

Just take a few moments to remember these tips before you venture out for some fun nightlife and pass these tips on to friends, family, and coworkers.


Jennifer Chase
Author & Criminologist

Emily’s Crime Watch – Tip #14 (Stalking)

In my novels Compulsion and Dead Game, Emily Stone relentlessly searches down the bad guys. You could say that she is stalking them in order to bring them to justice.

But what does stalking really mean?

The definition of stalking is the act of following prey stealthily.

Stalking is caused by a chronic obsessive personality. Anyone can become a victim or a stalker. It has been estimated that one out of every twelve women will be a victim of a stalker at some point in their lives.

What happens when someone is stalking another person? There are stalking laws in place for this type of unwanted attention.

The California Stalking Law Penal Code Section 646.9 is one of the strongest stalking laws in the country. No Longer should victims of stalking be turned away by law enforcement and told, "come back when he actually hurts you." From 1991 through 1993, stalking was a misdemeanor punishable by only one year in county jail when no restraining order was in place. Under the current law, a first-time stalker can be sentenced to a felony charge and sentenced to State Prison for up to three years. If a court or restraining order is in effect, the stalker can be sentenced up to four years in prison or if he has previously been convicted of felony stalking or other related crimes, he could face up to five years in prison.

I’ve had first hand experience of being stalked by someone and it was a life altering experience for me. Some of you may already know that I lived next door to a violent sociopath for 2 ½ years that threatened my life weekly, sometimes daily. The good news is that I turned that unfortunate situation into a positive one by using my experience, or inspiration for lack of a better description, in my fictional writing and that’s how Compulsion came to life. The bad news was that I had to move and this person continued to stalk me at work and even found my new residence. Everything finally worked out. I’m safe now and this person went to jail for a crime of aggravated assault on someone he knew, but unfortunately he’s out free again.

I wanted to share some stalker warning signs.

Stalkers usually have two or more of these personality traits:

1. Impulsive

2. Obsessive

3. Selfish

4. Won’t take “NO” for an answer.

5. Has few friends.

6. Low self-esteem.

In my situation, this person was also highly intelligent, clever, had violent tendencies, had one or two so-called friends that would follow his orders, and he felt that everyone had “wronged” him in some way.

The best approach to stop a stalker is to nip it in the bud, but this isn’t always the simplest approach.

What you can do to STOP the stalker:

1. NEVER let the stalker know that he’s having any effect on you. I know this doesn’t sound easy, but it’s important.

2. Make sure you have a Caller ID on your phone.

3. If you’re being harassed by phone, make sure that it’s connected to a recorder to gather evidence. Get a second line (unlisted) for your trusted friends or use a cell phone.

4. Have friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers help to shield you.

5. Get a camera cell phone (most cell phones have this feature now) and document everything and every encounter with this person.

6. Change your schedule to make it more difficult to follow you.

7. Drive around the block a couple of times before returning home. If you are being followed or threatened drive straight to a police station. Never confront this person alone.

8. Plan an escape route in case your stalker enters your home, follows you on foot, or follows you in the car. It’s important to plan out what you would do in an escape and don’t let anxiety and fear cloud your judgment.

9. Find out all your options with restraining orders. Talk to your local police department and file a report. Law enforcement is there to help us. From my own personal experience, the police were helpful and supportive of my situation.

10. Contact an attorney or your local police department for more information.

Be safe and alert at ALL times. Don’t feel like you have to suffer through this alone. Tell friends, family, and law enforcement. You're not alone!


Jennifer Chase
Author & Criminologist

Emily’s Crime Watch – Tip #13 - Holiday and Shopping Safety

This is my heroine Emily Stone’s favorite time of the year. She has some precautions to ensure that everyone has a joyful and festive holiday.

This is the time where many of us are busy, with not only everyday things, but with shopping, holiday decorating, parties, and much more. This is also the time where we need to be careful in protecting our families and homes from burglaries, identity theft, and assault.

The holidays can be a time where potential criminals use it to their advantage because often times we are distracted and staying vigilant.

Here are a few simple reminders for home and shopping safety during the holiday season.

Home safety:
1. Be extra cautious about locking ALL windows and doors when you leave the house, even if you’re gone for only a few minutes. Also, make sure that your windows and doors are properly bolted for added security.

2. Be careful of large displays of holiday gifts visible through windows and doors of your home. This can be too tempting for “would be” burglars.

3. If you’re leaving your home for any extended length of time, have a neighbor, friend, or family member keep an eye on your home and pick up newspapers and mail.

4. Have indoor and outdoor lights on an automatic timer.

5. If possible, leave a radio or television on to give the appearance of an occupied home.

Shopping Safety:

1. Try to do your holiday shopping during daylight hours, if possible. If you have to shop at night, go with a friend or family member.

2. Dress comfortably and casually, and avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

3. Try NOT to carry a purse or wallet, if possible. Always carry your driver’s license or ID card, checks or credit cards that you plan on using for your shopping excursion. Try to keep these items in a front pocket.

4. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Try to pay for purchases with a check or credit card whenever possible.

5. If your credit card(s) are lost or stolen, notify the credit card issuer immediately. Also, if it has been stolen, notify the police and file a report. Make sure to keep a record of ALL your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.

6. ALWAYS stay alert to your surroundings.

7. Avoid overloading yourself with packages. Make sure that you have a clear visibility and are able to move around freely.

8. Keep packages out of plain view in your car. Try to put them in the trunk or out of plain sight.

9. Beware of strangers approaching you for ANY reason. This time of year where there are many “con artists” that will try to distract your attention to take your belongings or money.

Most of all, have a wonderful holiday season with family and friends.

Jennifer Chase
Author & Criminologist

Emily’s Crime Watch – Tip #9 - Public Safety

Many of us take advantage of enjoying our local parks and beaches, especially this time of year when the weather is still nice and warm. It’s a great place to just relax or enjoy regular exercise, such as walking and jogging.

Living in California, I love to take advantage of all the wonderful parks and beaches whenever I can. It’s a great place for me to relax and take a break from my writing. Sometimes, I get my best story ideas walking at the beach with my dogs. However, I am still aware of my surroundings, even as I enjoy the great outdoors and beautiful scenery.

Emily Stone, the heroine in my novel Compulsion that is dedicated to public safety, suggests the following tips to stay safe for the park and beach enthusiast:

1.Remember, there is always safety in numbers. It is recommended that you walk or run with a friend. For me, I have a large, trained, black dog that accompanies me when I’m alone and he has deterred a couple of individuals from possibly making me a potential crime victim in the past.

2.Don’t take shortcuts or dirt paths through wooded areas.

3.Stay on well-lighted and populated path areas.

4.Remain alert and aware at all times. As funs as it is to wear headphones with your favorite music, if you are alone don’t wear them, it can distract you from your surroundings.

5.Familiarize yourself with your local park or beach and know where the public phones or police call boxes are located, even if you have your personal cell phone with you. It’s always a good idea to know where these emergency phones are located.

6.Know the locations of any stores or businesses that may be open in the vicinity of the park or beach. These types of locations may be a safe place to go if you feel threatened or need assistance.

7. Don’t wear an excessive amount of jewelry because this will make you stand out.

8.Closely supervise children and instruct them how to response to strangers.

9. If someone attempts to verbally harass you, keep walking and continue to a populated area or business. If you do respond to this type of behavior, it could escalate the situation. It’s always better to be cautious and find a safe, populated location.

10.ALWAYS report suspicious persons or activities to the local police. Remember to dial “911” for emergency police or medical services.

If you happen to become a victim of a crime at the park, beach, or anywhere for that matter, the police recommend the following:

1.Remain calm.
2.Don’t make any quick or sudden movements.
3. Don’t be a hero. No amount of money or personal property is worth your life.
4. Be observant. Try to remember everything you can about the criminal: sex, age, race, clothing, height, weight, and anything that would help to identify the criminal.
5.Call the police immediately after the incident.

Crime in parks and beaches isn’t commonplace, but it’s always important to remember these simple tips and to be prepared just in case of an emergency.

Being fully prepared usually means that nothing will likely happen. It’s important to feel comfortable when visiting your local park or beach areas. Take advantage and enjoy your visits to these wonderful, outdoor locations.

Jennifer Chase

Author & Criminologist