Take security steps before heading south

As the temperature falls, many Rhode Islanders pack up for warmer climates. How-ever, while you are warming your toes in the sand without a care in the world, you may become a victim of a crime thousands of miles away. Just like those two bumbling crooks in the classic movie “Home Alone,” criminals may be laying in wait for your house to be vacant.
  Before you pack your bags and load the wagon for a warmer destination, here are some important tips to protect you from being a victim of identity theft or some other crime.
  • Don’t let your mail stack up in your box. Your unopened letters can be a treasure chest for identity thieves. Place a hold on your mail with the post office or have your mail forwarded if you plan to be gone for several weeks.
  • Make arrangements to have your sidewalk shoveled and idle motor vehicles brushed clean of snow to give the impression someone is home.
  • Inform trusted relatives or neighbors that you plan to be away and ask them to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.
  • Make sure someone you trust knows how to contact you in case of emergency.
  • Check billing statements while you are away and immediately report any fraudulent charges.
  • Do not broadcast that you are away on your voicemail or answering machine.
  • Don’t hide spare keys on your property.
  • Consider installing solar or motion-sensor floodlights. When they go on, it gives the impression someone is home.
  • Set lights or even a television to a timer so it seems as though there is activity at night.
  • Notify police that your home will be vacant, providing the dates the house will be vacant and an emergency contact name and telephone number.
  Staying close to home this winter?  You too need to be vigilant to protect yourself and your property.
  • Have additional supplies such as food, batteries, sand and salt on hand in the event of severe weather,
  • Be wary of contractors going door to door after a storm, offering assistance or snow plowing.   Never let anyone you don’t know into your home.
  • Make plans for snow removal with a plowing service or a teenager in the neighborhood. If you have to shovel, make sure you take it easy and stop for frequent breaks.
  • If you need home repairs done, make sure the contractor is licensed with the Rhode Island Contractors Registration and Licensing Board. The board can be reached at (401) 222-1268.
  • Prearrange for someone to check on you in case of a weather emergency. If you have special needs or need assistance during a storm, the State of Rhode Island offers a broad range of services for seniors. For more information on available services, please call The Point, Rhode Island's Aging and Disability Resource Center, at (401) 462-4444 or (401) 462-4445 for text telephone users.
  Whatever your plans are this winter, it is important to keep yourself, your property and your identity safe. If you have any questions, or believe you’ve been a victim of identity theft or fraud, contact the consumer protection unit of the Office of Attorney General at (401) 274-4400.
 
Peter F. Kilmartin is attorney general of Rhode Island. Submit questions and comments to akempe@riag.ri.gov.