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Top ten tips to protect yourself

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Staying safe at home

Basic security

Make sure your house or flat is secure. Always secure outside doors. Fit barrel locks top and bottom. If you have to use a key, keep it nearby - you may need to get out quickly in the event of fire.

If other people such as previous tenants could still have a key to your house, change the locks. Don't give keys to workmen or tradesmen, as they can easily make copies.

Draw your curtains after dark and if you think there is a prowler outside dial 999.

Use only your surname and initials in the telephone directory and on the doorplate. That way a stranger won't know if a man or a woman lives there.

If you are selling your home, don't show people around on your own. Ask your estate agent to send a representative with anyone who wants to view your house.

Answering the phone

When you answer the phone, simply say 'hello'; don't give your number. If the caller claims to have a wrong number, ask him or her to repeat the number required. Never reveal any information about yourself to a stranger and never say you are alone in the house.

If you receive an abusive or threatening phone call, put the receiver down beside the phone, and walk away. Come back a few minutes later and replace the receiver; don't listen to see if the caller is still there. Don't say anything - an emotional reaction is just what the caller wants. If the calls continue, tell the police and the operator and keep a record of the date, time and content of each phone call. This may help the authorities trace the caller.

Dealing with intruders

What should you do if you wake to hear the sound of an intruder? Only you can decide how best to handle the situation. You may want to lie quietly to avoid attracting attention to yourself, in the hope that they will leave. Or you may feel more confident if you switch on the lights and make a lot of noise by moving about. Even if you're on your own, call out loudly to an imaginary companion - most burglars will flee empty-handed rather than risk a confrontation. Ring the police as soon as it's safe for you to do so. A telephone extension in your bedroom will make you feel more secure as it allows you to call the police immediately, without alerting the intruder.

If you see signs of a break-in at your home, like a smashed window or open door, don't go in. Go to a neighbour and call the police.

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