Easttown Township Neighborhood Watch
- Crime Prevention Tips
Using common sense is the most effective way to avoid becoming a crime victim but here are some standard areas that continue to create new victims year round and general crime prevention tips for everyday awareness:
Phony Charities: All types of charities pop up throughout the year. In the U.S., most charities must file a Form 990 with the IRS. This indicates how much the group spent on programs, administration and fundraising activities. When in doubt, ask for a copy of Form 990 BEFORE sending any money. If you get a phone call seeking a donation, ask how much of your donation will actually reach its intended recipient. Don't settle for a tax-id number either -- this can be issued to any business and doesn't necessarily indicate a legitimate charity.
Online auctions: Thousands of people list items for sale online. You take a leap of faith when you purchase from online auctions. Selecting sellers with high rates of positive feedback is one way to avoid being ripped off -- and paying with a form of payment that can be cancelled should the item not be shipped out is another. Use common sense when ordering from an unknown person over the web.
Destructive emails: Avoid getting computer viruses or being hacked by resisting the urge to download those cute ring tones or e-greetings. While most are probably harmless, some could contain potentially damaging computer viruses.
Pickpockets: The least "high tech" scam is picking your pocket or stealing a wallet or purse. Be aware of your surroundings; keep your wallet in a front pocket and keep your purse zipped up (with the zipper pull in front!). Don't leave your wallet or purse unattended at any time, anywhere.
Snowbirds: Notify police that you will be away and for how long as well as giving them contact information on where you can be reached and who has a key to your residence in case of emergency. Put a hold on your mail delivery or have it forwarded to your vacation address if possible. Cancel paper delivery for the duration of your winter holiday, Ask a neighbor to shovel any snow that falls while you are away (and salt your walkway/drive when it's icy). Make sure a trusted neighbor or family member has a key to your house in case of emergency and let them know the police phone number (non-emergency 610-647-1440) should they need to contact them.
Phony Charities: All types of charities pop up throughout the year. In the U.S., most charities must file a Form 990 with the IRS. This indicates how much the group spent on programs, administration and fundraising activities. When in doubt, ask for a copy of Form 990 BEFORE sending any money. If you get a phone call seeking a donation, ask how much of your donation will actually reach its intended recipient. Don't settle for a tax-id number either -- this can be issued to any business and doesn't necessarily indicate a legitimate charity.
Online auctions: Thousands of people list items for sale online. You take a leap of faith when you purchase from online auctions. Selecting sellers with high rates of positive feedback is one way to avoid being ripped off -- and paying with a form of payment that can be cancelled should the item not be shipped out is another. Use common sense when ordering from an unknown person over the web.
Destructive emails: Avoid getting computer viruses or being hacked by resisting the urge to download those cute ring tones or e-greetings. While most are probably harmless, some could contain potentially damaging computer viruses.
Pickpockets: The least "high tech" scam is picking your pocket or stealing a wallet or purse. Be aware of your surroundings; keep your wallet in a front pocket and keep your purse zipped up (with the zipper pull in front!). Don't leave your wallet or purse unattended at any time, anywhere.
Snowbirds: Notify police that you will be away and for how long as well as giving them contact information on where you can be reached and who has a key to your residence in case of emergency. Put a hold on your mail delivery or have it forwarded to your vacation address if possible. Cancel paper delivery for the duration of your winter holiday, Ask a neighbor to shovel any snow that falls while you are away (and salt your walkway/drive when it's icy). Make sure a trusted neighbor or family member has a key to your house in case of emergency and let them know the police phone number (non-emergency 610-647-1440) should they need to contact them.
