If you own a pool or visit a home that has a pool, remember, drowning deaths among children occur year round in Los Angeles County with most in backyard swimming pools. Most of the toddlers and infants who have drowned in backyard pools or spas were not expected to have been in the pool or spa area but rather somewhere else in the home, either asleep or playing in the home, etc. Drowning-related hospitalizations can often leave children with brain damage and disability. These drowning risks are 100% preventable by following the prevention tips below.

When your pool is "not-in-use"

• Your pool or spa must have a 5-foot minimum high fence that completely surrounds it.
• If the house forms a barrier, install a separation fence. Make sure that all doors & windows leading to the pool area are alarmed and locked.
• If you have a door that leads to your pool or spa, that has a "doggy door", remember that children climb through these.
• Ensure gate is self-closing/self-latching and opens outward away from the pool.
• Keep lawn equipment, chairs, tables away from the fence to prevent a child from climbing over.
• Power operated pool covers must be properly maintained.
• Keep lifesaving ring and shepherd's hook in pool area & know how to use them.
• Make sure that pool/spa gates are locked at all times.
• Remove all inflatable toys from the pool/spa area.
• Make sure the pool/spa gate is locked and turn-on all window and door alarms that lead to the pool/spa area.
• Learn CPR.
• Learn to swim.

When your pool is "in-use"

• Never swim alone.
• When watching children or adults in a pool/spa, supervise them like you are a lifeguard - maintain "active supervision."
• When watching children or adults in a pool/spa, do not read, eat, talk to other, sleep, listen to an audio headset, etc.
• Designate a second adult for breaks.
• An adult who supervises a pool/spa must know how to swim and know CPR.
• Keep phone at poolside for emergency use.
• Know how and when to use lifesaving equipment such as a shephard's hook or lifesaving ring.
• Have children use "the buddy system."
• Children are not "drown-proof" even if they know how to swim.
• Inflatable toys, floaties, floatable swimsuits, are not lifesaving devises and do not replace "active supervision."
• Pool parties: Consider hiring a lifeguard through your local American Red Cross.
• After use, account that everyone is out of the pool.
• After use, remove inflatable toys from pool area.
• After use, ensure self-closing/self-latching gate is working properly.
• After use, lock the gate and turn-on all window or door alarms that lead to the pool area.

Motor vehicle crashes continue to be one of the leading causes of death and injury for children in California. According to the California Department of Public Health, they rank among the top five causes of death and hospitalization for children under age 16.

Child safety seats are highly effective when used correctly. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data shows that:

• Properly installed child safety seats reduce the risk of fatal injury by 71% for infants under 1 year old, and

• By 54% for toddlers between the ages of 1 and 4.

Although child restraints can be life-saving, they are frequently misused. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) and NHTSA estimate that about 46% of child safety seats are not used correctly, significantly reducing their effectiveness.

Motor vehicle crashes are a serious threat to child safety, but proper use of child restraints can significantly reduce the risk of death and injury. While child safety seats are highly effective, nearly half are used incorrectly—highlighting the importance of proper installation and usage.

California Child Passenger Safety Law

• Under California law, children under 8 years old or shorter than 4 feet 9 inches must be secured in an appropriate child passenger restraint system, such as a car seat or booster seat, in the back seat of a vehicle. Children who are 8 years old or at least 4 feet 9 inches tall may use a properly secured seat belt. The California Highway Patrol recommends that all children under 13 ride in the back seat for optimal safety .

Prevention Tips

• Use the Right Restraint for the Child’s Age, Weight, and Height

  • Infants and toddlers should be in rear-facing car seats until at least age 2 or until they reach the car seat's height and weight limits.

  • Children under 8 years old or shorter than 4'9" must ride in a car seat or booster seat in the back seat.

  • Kids 8 or older and taller than 4'9" can use a seat belt if it fits properly.

• Always Place Children in the Back Seat

  • The back seat is the safest place for children under 13 years old. Front airbags can seriously injure young kids.

• Check for Proper Seat Belt Fit

  • The lap belt should lie snugly across the upper thighs, not the stomach.

  • The shoulder belt should cross the chest and rest snugly on the shoulder—not the neck or face.

• Use Booster Seats Correctly

  • Booster seats help position the seat belt correctly on a child’s smaller frame.

  • Never allow a child to use an adult seat belt alone before they are tall enough.

• Install Car Seats Properly

  • Follow manufacturer instructions carefully for installation.

  • Use LATCH anchors or seat belt locking mechanisms for a secure fit.

  • Have your installation checked by a certified technician or at CHP’s free inspection events.

• Keep Children in Rear-Facing Seats as Long as Possible
  Rear-facing seats better protect a child’s head, neck, and spine during crashes.

• Don’t Let Kids Slouch or Twist in Their Seats
  Proper posture keeps the restraint effective and helps avoid injury.

• Avoid Using Secondhand or Expired Car Seats
  Car seats have expiration dates and can be damaged or outdated. Always use a seat in good condition and up to current safety standards.

• Make Buckling Up a Habit
  Always buckle up every ride, no matter how short.

• Lead by Example
  Always wear your seat belt to set a good example for children.

• ALWAYS read the child safety seat instruction manual and your motor vehicle owner's manual to ensure proper installation.
• Contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline (888)327-4236 or the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (800)638-2772 or www.cpsc.gov, about recalls or safety notices on child safety seats. After you purchase a new child safety seat, always return the product registration form to the manufacturer so you are notified of recalls.
• Most child safety seats and vehicles manufactured after September 1, 2002 are equipped with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tether for Children). the bottom of the safety seat is connected by straps with hooks to two bars in the crack of the vehicle seat cushion. If LATCH is not available on both the safety seat and the selected seating position in the vehicle, use the vehicle belt instead. In either case, the top tether strap should be attached for forward-facing seats.

Seating Your Child Safely

• Children Under 2 Years

  • Should ride rear-facing in the back seat, unless they weigh at least 40 lbs and fit the seat’s height and weight limits.

  • Continue using a rear-facing convertible seat until the child reaches the seat’s maximum height or weight limits — not just based on age.

  • Don’t switch to forward-facing simply because the child is restless. Safety limits matter most.

  • Always install the seat in the back seat, away from active airbags.

• Children Ages 1 to 4 Years

  • May ride forward-facing in a child safety seat with a harness, installed in the back seat.

  • Continue using a harnessed safety seat until the child weighs at least 40 lbs (usually about age 4).

  • Harness straps must be threaded through the top slots unless the seat manual says otherwise.

  • Straps should fit snugly, at or above the child’s shoulders, with no slack (pinch test applies).

  • The chest clip should be placed at armpit level.

• Children Ages 4 to 8 Years

  • Must ride in the back seat using a booster seat with a properly fitting lap/shoulder belt.

  • The California Highway Patrol strongly recommends using booster seats until the child is at least 4 feet 9 inches tall and passes the 5-Step Test:

    1. Sits all the way back against the vehicle seat.

    2. Knees bend comfortably at the edge of the seat.

    3. Shoulder belt lies across the collarbone, not the neck or face.

    4. Lap belt fits low across the hips, touching the thighs.

    5. The child can remain seated like this for the entire trip.

• If your car only has lap belts (no shoulder belt) in the back seat, you cannot use a booster seat. However you can:
  • Contact the car manufacturer to see if a retrofit shoulder belt can be installed, or
  • Contact SafetyBeltSafe (800) 745-SAFE or www.carseat.org for special products with harnesses for children over 40 lbs.

Safety Seat Inspection Stations

• Safety Seat Inspection stations are located throughout Los Angeles County where Nationally Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians inspect child safety seats, make sure it fits the child properly, and ensures it is installed correctly and located in the safest seat in the vehicle. To make an appointment with a certified technician in your area call (866) 732-8243 or visit www.seatcheck.org.

Protecting your business starts with prevention. Here are key steps you can take to help reduce crime and keep your property, employees, and customers safe:

1. Strengthen Physical Security

• Install high-quality locks on all doors and windows.
• Use solid-core or metal doors for exterior entrances.
• Keep the premises well-lit, especially around entrances, parking areas, and loading docks.
• Secure valuables such as cash, electronics, or tools in a safe after hours.
• File a City of Santa Fe Springs Emergency Contact/Notification Information Form
• Install a Security Camera system and apply for the Santa Fe Springs Home and Business Security Camera Rebate Program.
• File a Trespass Arrest Authorization Letter with the Whittier Police Department.  

2. Use Smart Technology

• Install a monitored alarm system and security cameras covering all key areas.
• Post visible security signage to deter offenders.
• Regularly test and maintain alarm and video systems.

3. Manage Cash and Inventory

• Limit cash on hand and make frequent bank deposits.
• Keep registers open and empty after hours.
• Inventory merchandise regularly and investigate discrepancies promptly.

4. Control Access

• Issue keys or access cards only to trusted employees.
• Collect keys or deactivate access immediately when employment ends.
• Keep back doors locked when not in use and restrict who can open them.

5. Train Employees

• Educate staff on robbery prevention, how to report suspicious activity, and what to do during an emergency.
• Encourage employees to stay alert and look out for each other.

6. Maintain Visibility

• Keep windows clear of large posters or displays so employees can see outside and police can see in.
• Trim landscaping to prevent hiding spots around doors and windows.

7. Partner With Your Community

• Report all crimes and suspicious activity immediately to the Police Services Center at (562) 409-1850. 
• Work with neighboring businesses to share information and improve safety together.

Password & Account Security

• Use strong passwords: At least 12 characters, mixing letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Don’t reuse passwords across different accounts.
• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible — it adds an extra layer of protection.
• Change passwords immediately if you suspect an account has been compromised.

Device & Network Safety

• Install updates regularly on your computer, phone, and apps to patch security vulnerabilities.
• Use antivirus and anti-malware software — and keep it up to date.
• Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks; use a VPN if you must connect to public networks.
• Lock your devices with a passcode or biometric security.

Phishing & Scams

• Be cautious with emails or texts that urge you to click links or open attachments.
• Check the sender’s address carefully — fake ones often look similar to real ones.
• Never share personal or financial information via email or text.
• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Social Media & Online Behavior

• Limit personal information you share publicly (like your location, birthday, or job details).
• Adjust privacy settings on your social media accounts.
• Be wary of friend or connection requests from people you don’t know.
• Don’t overshare travel plans or personal details that could be used for scams or identity theft.

Data Protection

• Back up important files regularly (preferably to a secure cloud service or external drive).
• Encrypt sensitive information when storing or sending it electronically.
• Shred physical documents containing personal or financial details.

If You Suspect a Cyber Incident

• Disconnect from the internet immediately if you think your device has been hacked.
• Report phishing attempts or suspicious activity to your IT team or email provider.
• Change passwords for affected accounts right away.
• Contact local authorities or cybersecurity professionals if identity theft or fraud occurs.

4^th of July Fireworks Safety Tips
Keep it Legal, Keep it Safe!

The City of Santa Fe Springs would like to remind everyone to celebrate safely this Fourth of July! The following City Rules & Regulations and Safety Tips are provided to ensure that you and your families have a safe and enjoyable Independence Day.

City Rules & Regulations:

• Only “Safe & Sane” fireworks containing the U.S. Fire Marshal seal of approval may be sold, purchased and discharged in the City.
• Fireworks may only be sold and discharged during the period beginning 12:00 P.M. on June 30^th, ending at 12:00 A.M. on July 5^th.
• It is illegal to possess or discharge fireworks on City property, including City parks.
• Citations will be issued to those who possess, discharge or distribute illegal fireworks. Violators are subject to fines of $1,000 for each violation.

Safety Tips When Using “Safe & Sane” Fireworks:  

• Do not modify any fireworks. Fireworks modification can result in serious injuries.
• Always read directions and use common sense.
• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• Keep fireworks at a safe distance and away from structures, areas of dry vegetation and flammable substances.
• Fireworks should be discharged from a hard surface such as concrete, gravel or pavement.
• Adult supervision is vital anytime fireworks are being ignited or handled.
• Don't allow children to pick up left over pieces of fireworks. Some may still be ignited and can explode at any time.
• Do not attempt to re-light or fix malfunctioning fireworks.
• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy in case of a fire or mishap.
• Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash can.
• Think about your pet(s). Animals have sensitive ears and can be extremely frightened or stressed due to the noise. Keep pets indoors to reduce the risk that they'll run loose or get injured.
• Do your part by removing left over trash from discharged fireworks. This helps keep pollutants out of the storm drain system.

Illegal Fireworks Are Dangerous. The Following are examples of illegal types of fireworks that are prohibited.

Protecting Yourself From Telemarketing Fraud.

It can be hard to resist. A phone call from a charity seeking desperately needed funds for flood victims, endangered species, or the homeless. A postcard claiming you've won an amazing sweepstakes prize if you'll just call and send an "administrative fee." Or an investment offer giving you an "exclusive" chance to earn potentially enormous profits.

But resist you must. These are just a few examples of the kinds of fraudulent schemes Americans run across every day. Experts estimate that consumers lose more than $100 billion annually to a broad assortment of frauds, cons, and scams. Fraudulent telemarketing and direct mail appeals account for $40 billion of this total.

Alarmingly, the elderly are a major target for con artists, especially phony fundraisers and hucksters hawking bogus investment and insurance schemes. Whether they are widowed and lonely, eager to help others, or merely intrigued by a "once in a lifetime" opportunity, increasing numbers of Americans are falling for sophisticated and slick appeals that can wind up costing them thousands of dollars, not to mention untold anguish and stress.

Taking your money is the number-one goal of the nation's scamming scoundrels. Many concoct their cons just to get a credit card number so they can go on a spending spree financed by YOU. Others will bill you incredible sums for merely calling them to find out more. And still more want a check or cash as soon as possible - by overnight delivery, by wire or even by courier - so they have their money before you have them figured out.

What consumer-soaking schemes are all the rage these days? Among the major scams are postcard sweepstakes offers. In a recent poll, 30 percent of Americans said they had responded to such mailings, sometimes sending hundreds of dollars to "register" for a seemingly fabulous prize or trip.

False charities are another popular consumer con. Telephone troublemakers claiming to represent everyone from police officers to the disabled take advantage of Americans' generosity to the tune of billions of dollars each year. Adding to the problem is an array of fraudulent appeals - in newspaper ads, on TV and by mail - about business and investment opportunities, vacation homes, and even "miracle cures" for everything from baldness to cancer.

WHAT CAN YOU DO....

In the face of this onslaught of fraud, the best course for consumers is to beware. Here are some pointers so you won't be conned by the pros.

• If a caller asks for your credit card, bank account or Social Security number to verify a free vacation, a prize, or a gift, say "No" and hang up.
• If you're calling a 900 number in response to an advertisement or something you received in the mail, make sure you know all the charges up front.
• Before you agree to support a charity that calls seeking money, ask for written information about its finances and programs.

If you feel you've been conned, call the police or the Better Business Bureau. Remember, consumer fraud is a crime. And last but not least, remember that an offer that sounds too good to be true, probably is.

Halloween has been celebrated on October 31st in the United States since the early 1800's and is traditionally a family-oriented holiday when children get to dress up and enjoy candy and other treats. In order to assure our community enjoys this fun-filled holiday as safely as possible, the Department of Police Services has compiled the following safety tips for children and their parents.

1. Children should trick-or-treat during the daylight hours.
2. Children should never be allowed to go out alone on Halloween.
3. Children should never eat any treats until they have been examined.
4. All fruit should be cut and closely examined before eating.
5. Advise children that they should never enter strangers' homes.
6. Never invite children into your home.
7. Children should never accept rides from strangers.
8. Children should never take shortcuts through backyards or alleys.
9. Set a specific time limit for your children to be out on Halloween night.
10. Give wrapped, homemade treats only to children you know.
11. Instruct children not to stray from their group.
12. A responsible adult should escort children while trick-or-treating.
13. Adult escorts should carry flashlights.
14. Don't leave your home unattended on Halloween night.
15. Keep pets inside your home, or other safe place on Halloween night.
16. Children should walk, not run, during their trick-or-treat activities.
17. Parents should know what route their children will be taking.
18. All costumes should be made of light-colored, fireproof material.
19. Children should wear proper fitting, comfortable costumes and shoes.
20. Props such as toy guns or swords should be made of pliable material.
21. Realistic replica firearms should never be used.
22. Masks should not be worn if they impair vision.
23. Wigs should be fireproof and should not restrict vision.
24. Children should always use sidewalks, not the street, for walking.
25. Children should look in all directions before crossing the street.

As the holiday season approaches, we would like to remind all residents to stay safe and vigilant while enjoying this festive time of year. Whether you're shopping, traveling, or celebrating at home, simple precautions can help increase safety and awareness this holiday season.

Home Safety

• Lock Up Before You Leave: Always lock doors and windows when you leave your home, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
• Light It Up: Use timers for indoor and outdoor lights to give the appearance that someone is home.
• Hide Packages and Gifts: Keep wrapped gifts and packages out of sight from windows to avoid tempting thieves.
• Don’t Share Travel Plans Publicly: Avoid posting vacation details or travel photos on social media until after you return.
• Avoid Fire Hazards: Keep candles away from flammable materials and never leave them burning unattended. Inspect holiday lights for damage and turn them off when you go to bed or leave home.

 Shopping Safety

• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Whether shopping online or in person, stay alert. Avoid distractions like your phone when walking to and from your car.
• Park Smart: Always lock your vehicle and park in well-lit, busy areas. Never leave shopping bags or valuables in plain sight.
• Carry Minimal Cash: Use credit or debit cards when possible and keep wallets and purses secure and close to your body.
• Keep Receipts: Save all purchase receipts in case of theft or fraud.

Package Theft Prevention

• Use Secure Delivery Options: Consider requiring a signature for deliveries or using Amazon Lockers or delivery to your workplace.
• Track Deliveries: Stay up to date on delivery times and retrieve packages as soon as possible.
• Team Up with Neighbors: Ask a trusted neighbor to pick up your packages if you’re not home.

  Vehicle Safety

• Remove Valuables: Don’t leave phones, bags, or electronics in your car, even if it’s locked.
• Check Twice: Before driving off, especially at night, check around and inside your vehicle.
• Don’t Leave Your Car Running Unattended: Even if it’s cold, never leave your vehicle idling with the keys inside.
• Drink Responsibly: If you plan to drink, designate a driver or use a rideshare service.

Report Suspicious Activity
If you See Something, Say Something! Promptly report any suspicious activity to the Whittier Police Department Dispatch at (562) 567-9240.

f you become a victim of Identity Theft, it is important to act immediately to stop the thief's further use of your identity. Unfortunately, at this time victims themselves are burdened with resolving the problem. It is important to act quickly and assertively to minimize the damage. In dealing with authorities and financial institutions, keep a log of all conversations, dates, names, and telephone numbers. Note the time spent and any expenses incurred. Confirm conversations in writing. Provide your police report number to expedite reporting the crime.

Send correspondence by certified mail (return receipt requested). Keep copies of all letters and documents. Sometimes victims of Identity Theft are wrongfully accused of crimes committed by an impostor. If a civil judgement has been entered in your name for actions taken by an impostor, contact the court where the judgement was entered and report that you are a victim of Identity Theft. If you are wrongfully prosecuted of criminal charges, contact the state Department of Justice and the FBI. Ask how to clear your name.

We suggest you also do the following:

• Report the crime to your local police or sheriff department immediately. Give them as much documented evidence as possible. Obtain a copy of all police reports. Keep the telephone number of your fraud detective/investigator handy and give it to creditors and others who require verification of your case. Credit card companies, banks, and insurance companies may require you to show the report in order to verify the crime. Some police and sheriff departments have been known to refuse to write reports on such crimes. Be persistent!
• Immediately contact (by telephone and in writing) all creditors with whom your name has been used fraudulently. Obtain replacement cards with new account numbers for your own accounts that have been used fraudulently. Ask that old accounts be processed as "account closed at consumer's request." (This is better than "card lost or stolen," because when this statement is reported to credit reporting bureaus, it can be interpreted as blaming you for the loss.) Carefully monitor your mail and credit card bills for evidence of new fraudulent activity. Report it immediately to credit grantors.
• Finally, speak with the detective investigating your case, he or she may be able to assist you in obtaining a fingerprint comparison if the suspect has ever been arrested or has used your name during an arrest. You may be able to obtain information regarding any warrants connected to the arrest, this may also help in reestablishing your credit or obtaining a new social security number.

CREDIT REPORTING BUREAUS

Contact credit reporting bureaus for names and telephone numbers of credit grantors with whom fraudulent accounts have been opened. Ask the credit reporting bureaus to remove inquiries that have been generated due to the fraudulent access. You may also ask the credit reporting bureaus to notify those who have received your credit report in the last six months in order to alert them to the disputed and erroneous information.

The nearest office of the Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Los Angeles might be able to give you advice on removing fraudulent claims from your credit report. Call 800-388-2227.

Immediately call the fraud units of the three credit reporting bureaus, i.e., Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union. Report the theft of your credit cards or numbers. Ask that your accounts be flagged. Also, add a victim's statement to your report, up to 100 words. ("My Identification has been used to apply for credit fraudulently. Contact me at (telephone number) to verify all applications.") Be sure to ask how long the fraud alert is posted on your account, and how you can extend it if necessary. Be aware that these measures may not entirely stop new fraudulent accounts from being opened by an impostor. Ask the credit bureaus in writing to provide you with free copies every few months so you can monitor your credit report.

EQUIFAX

To report fraud call: 800-525-6285 or 800-685-1111

P.O. Box 740241, Atlanta, GA 30374-0241

To dispute information in credit report write: P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30374-0256

To opt out of pre-approved offers of credit write: Equifax Options, P.O. Box 740123, Atlanta, GA 30374-0123

EXPERIAN (formerly TRW)

To report fraud call: 800-301-7195 or fax 800-301-7196

To contact Experian Consumer Fraud Assistance write: P.O. Box 1017, Allen, TX 75013

To order a copy of credit report write: P.O. Box 2104, Allen, TX 75013-2104

To dispute information in credit report contact: Experian at the address or telephone number provided on your credit report.

To opt out of pre-approved offers of credit and marketing lists call: 888‑567‑8688

TRANS UNION

To report fraud call: 800-680-7289

to report fraud write: Fraud Victim Assistance Division P.O. Box 6790, Fullerton, CA 92634

To order a copy of credit report write: P.O. Box 390, Springfield, PA 19064 or call 800-916-8800

To dispute information in credit report call: 800-888-4213

Telephone number provided on credit report or use "investigation request form" provided by Trans Union when you order your report.

To opt out of pre-approved offers of credit and marketing lists call: 888-5OPTOUT

Remember, if you have been denied credit you are entitled to a free credit report. If you are the victim of fraud, be sure to ask the credit reporting bureau for a free copy of your credit report. In 1997, a law became effective requiring credit reporting bureaus to provide credit reports free of charge to victims of Identity Theft.

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

If your Social Security number has been used fraudulently, report the problem to the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 800-269-0271. You may also order your Earnings and Benefits Statement by calling the SSA at 800-772-1213. For extreme cases of Identity Theft, they may be willing to change your Social Security number.

DIRECT MARKETING ASSOCIATION

To remove your name from mailing lists write to: Mail Preference Service, P.O. Box 9008, Farmingdale, NY 11735

To remove your name from telephone lists write to: Telephone Preference Service, P.O. Box 9014, Farmingdale, NY 11735.

When Identity Theft occurs, you need to act quickly, know what to do, who to contact and fully understand your rights under the law. Identity Theft exerts great emotional distress on its victims. Damage containment in each fraud case depends on how deeply the impostor has invaded your personal, professional and financial life. There are many preparatory actions one can take to prevent Identity Theft.

This information is meant to educate consumers. You can never be too careful, prepared, or aware. Share this information with family and friends. Schedule family discussions, ensure everyone is aware and prepared in the event an identity thief strikes.

To report a crime, please call the Whittier Police Department at (562) 567-9240.

By taking a few simple precautions, you can reduce the risk to yourself, and also discourage those who commit crime.

Be Prepared

• Always be alert and aware of the people around you.
• Educate yourself concerning prevention tactics.
• Be aware of locations and situations which would make you vulnerable to crime, such as alleys and dark parking lots.

Street Precautions

• Whenever possible, travel with a friend.
• Stay in well-lit areas as much as possible.
• Walk close to the curb. Avoid door-ways, bushes and alleys where someone could hide.
• Walk confidently, and at a steady pace.
• Make eye contact with people when walking.
• Do not respond to conversation from strangers on the street, continue walking.
• If you carry a purse, hold it securely between your arm and your body.

Car Safety

• Always lock car doors after entering or leaving your car.
• Park in well-lit areas.
• Have your car keys in your hand so you don't have to linger before entering your car.
• Check the back seat before entering your car.
• If you think you are being followed, drive to a public place or a police, sheriff or fire station.
• If your car breaks down, open the hood and attach a white cloth to the car antenna. If someone stops to help, stay in the locked car, roll down the window a little and ask them to call the police or sheriff or a tow trucking service.
• Don't stop to aid motorists stopped on the side of the road. Go to a phone and request help for them.

Office Security

• Never leave your purse or billfold in plain view or in the pocket of a jacket hanging on a door.
• Personal property should be marked with your driver's license number (preceded with the letters 'CA').
• Don't leave cash or valuables at the office.
• If you work alone or before/after normal business hours, keep the office door locked.
• If you work late, try to find another worker or a security guard to walk out with you.
• If you are in the elevator with another person, stand near the control panel. If you are attacked, press the alarm and as many of the control buttons as possible.
• Be alert for pickpockets on crowded elevators.
• Report all suspicious people and activities to the proper authorities: office manager, building security, law enforcement.
• Be aware of escape routes for emergencies, and post the phone numbers of the police and fire departments near telephones. Call 911 if the situation is life-threatening.

If a crime occurs - Report it!

Everyone should consider it his/her responsibility to report crime. Many criminals target favorite areas and have predictable methods of operation. When you report all the facts about a crime, it helps the police assign officers in the places where crimes are occurring or where they are most likely to occur. At least one out of two crimes in the United States goes unreported, either because people don't think the police can do anything about it, or because people don't want to get involved. If you don't report crime, this allows the criminal to continue to operate without interference.

In many cases, it is the information provided by victims and witnesses that leads to the arrest of a criminal. So tell the police as much as you can; no fact is too trivial. The police need the eyes and ears of all citizens.

Many injuries that happen on playgrounds are because of poor adult supervision. Approximately 74% of injuries among children 12 and younger happen on public playground equipment and 23% happen on home playground equipment. Preschool aged children are at greatest risk of fall-related deaths and hospitalizations on the playground. The following checklist will help keep your child safe on the playground.

Supervision
Nearly half of playground-related injuries among children are because of poor adult supervision. Adults need to supervise children on playgrounds to identify possible equipment hazards, observe children, intervene and facilitate play when necessary. Strings on clothing or ropes used for play can cause accidental strangulation if caught on equipment.

Age-Appropriate Equipment
Preschoolers, ages 2 - 5, and children, ages 5 - 12, are developmentally different and need different equipment located in separate areas to keep the playground safe and fun for all. Parents need to be aware. Most injuries related to age-inappropriateness playground equipment happen to children ages 0 - 4 who play on equipment designed for children ages 5 -12. However, older children should also not play on equipment designed for younger children either. Equipment that is too small may not be developmentally challenging and may create hazards by having small steps or narrow spaces.

Playground Surface
Nearly 70% of all playground injuries are from children falling off of equipment onto the surface. Acceptable surfaces include hardwood fiber/mulch, pea gravel, sand and synthetic materials such as poured-in-place, rubber mats or tiles. Playground surfaces should not be concrete, asphalt, grass, blacktop, packed dirt or rocks.

Safety of Playground Equipment
Make sure the equipment is anchored safely in the ground, all equipment pieces are in good working order, S-hooks are entirely closed, bolts are not protruding, and there are no exposed footings.

Crime prevention is everyone's responsibility, not just a job for law enforcement. Seniors can learn how to protect themselves from crime by following these simple, common-sense, suggestions. Share these tips with your neighbors and friends, too, and make it tough for criminals to work in your neighborhood.

At home...

• Always keep your doors and windows locked. Install dead-bolt locks on all doors.
• Keep your home well lit at night, inside and out, and keep your curtains closed at night.
• Install a peephole in your front door so you can see callers without opening the door.
• Ask for proper identification from delivery-men or strangers. Don't be afraid of asking - if they are legitimate they won't mind.
• If a stranger asks to use your telephone, offer to place the call for him/her yourself. Never let a stranger into your home.
• Do not leave notes on your door when you are gone, and do not hide your keys under the mat or in other conspicuous places.
• Never give out information over the phone indicating you are alone or that you won't be home at a certain times.
• When you are gone for more than a day, make sure your home looks and sounds occupied - use automatic timers to turn on lights and a radio or television.

While you're out...

• Carry your purse very close to you - don't dangle it from your arm. Also, never leave your purse in a shopping cart.
• Don't carry more cash than is necessary. Many grocery stores now accept checks and automatic teller cards instead of cash.
• Avoid walking alone at night. Try to have a friend accompany you in high risk areas - even during the daytime.
• Do not carry weapons - they may be used against you.
• Have your paychecks or government checks sent directly to your bank account - many banks have senior citizens discounts.
• Never withdraw money from your bank accounts for anyone except YOURSELF. Be wary of con artists and get-rich schemes that probably are too-good-to-be-true.

In your car...

• Keep your gas tank full and your engine properly maintained to avoid breakdowns.
• Always lock your car doors, even when you're inside and keep your windows rolled up. Driving with the windows closed also improves gas mileage.
• Lock packages and other valuables in the trunk. Do not leave them on the back seat or on the floor of the car where potential thieves can see them.
• When you return to your car, always check the front and back seat before you get in.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
• If you car breaks down, pull over to the right as far as possible, raise the hood, and wait inside the car for help. Do not get out of the car or roll down the window until the police arrive.

If you are a victim at home...

• If you arrive at home and suspect a stranger may be inside, DON'T GO IN. Leave quietly and call 911 to report the crime.
• If you're attacked on the street, make as much noise as possible by calling for help or blowing a whistle. Do not pursue your attacker. Call 911 and report the crime as soon as possible.
• If you have been swindled or conned, report the crime to your local police. Con artists count on their victim's reluctance to admit they've been duped, but if you delay, you help them get away. Remember, if you never report the crime, they are free to cheat others again and again and you have no chance of ever getting your money back.

• Avoid sharing sensitive details like your home address, daily routines, or upcoming travel plans.
• Keep personal information (birthdays, phone numbers, etc.) private — identity thieves can use it to target you.
• Review your privacy settings regularly to control who can see your posts and personal details.

Think Before You Post

• Avoid posting live updates from vacations or events — share them after you return home.
• Be cautious with photos that show your location, valuables, or children’s schools.
• Remember: once something is posted online, it can be difficult to completely remove.

Be Smart About Connections

• Only accept friend or follow requests from people you know and trust.
• Watch for fake profiles — scammers often impersonate real people or organizations.
• If something feels suspicious, report and block the account.

Stay Alert for Scams

• Be wary of messages or posts asking for money, gift cards, or personal information.
• Official agencies will never ask for payment through social media.
• Watch out for “too good to be true” giveaways or investment offers — they often are.

Report Suspicious Activity

• If you see threatening, harassing, or fraudulent behavior online, report it directly to the platform.
• For serious threats or crimes, contact the Police Services Center at (562) 409-1850 or call 911 in an emergency.