The Certified Check Scam has been around for a long time but recently it is getting more common. The different means of the scam is also getting more diverse.

It used to be that a “certified check” was just like guranteed money. With the advent of computers it’s making fraudulent people generate what looks like an actual check but in reality it’s not worth the paper it’s printed on. There is also some companies that you can call and tell them to write a certified check on either a non existant account or an account someone has stolen the identity of another. Yes, it will have what looks like a bonified routing number and your bank might even accept it into your account.

Here is the problem. It might take one or two days for it to go through the banking cycle before your bank klnows that the check was bogus. By that time you’ve already used the fraudulent money and the bank will demand you place the money back into your account.

Remember, just because you deposit a check into your banking account you are still rersponsible for making sure the money of the check is good. Checks are only “promissary notes” between the issuer of the check and the person receiving it. If the person writing the check did it fraudulently, you are still responsible for the amount of money the check was written for.

Don’t fall for the scam that someone from a foreign country wants you to be an “agent” for then here in the USA. They supposedly want you to collect their money receiving a certified check for them from a transaction or supposed customer. Then you are supposed to deposit this certified check into your personal banking account. Then you are supposed to keep your commission out of that money and send them the remainder by writing them a check from your account. Needless to say, the certified check is gogus but by the ime you have found out they have alrerady cashed your check and you are out all the money. Most of these scams like this are coming out of Nigeria or some African country.

The best way to receive money from a transaction on EBay or Craig’s List is to use Pay Pal or credit card. Of course cash is always welcome.

Remember, if it sounds too good, it usually is.

Of all the age groups senoir citizens ususally have a lower crime rate with the exception of purse snatching, home repairs, frauds and scams.

Crimes of violence are most feared by older people because these types of crimes get so much press attention. These types of are least likely to happen to a senior citizen.

Most murders and assaults are usually committed by a relative, friend not by a stranger. This is not to say not to be wary of strangers but to also be aware of your surroundings with all people at all times.

A rape of a woman over 65 rarely happens. Always walk and show confidence in a relaxed manner. Make breif eye contact with approaching strangers.

No matter how a senior citizen is victimized the crime has a greater effect emotionally and financially. Crimes to older people can be very devastating.

We all have heard the expression, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
Be sure your home has good locks, and use them. One thing you might do is replace the striker plate screws with longer 31/2″ screws. They will be long enough to penetrate into the door jam not just the door molding.

Know your neighbors and have some idea of their family routine. If you see something out of the ordinary call your local law enforcement. They would rather do that than show up on a crime scene.

Form neighborhood watch group in your area. If you start experiencing a higher crime rate start walking in groups in your area. Some neighborhood groups patrol in cars and have citizens band radios. Post signs in the area informing would be criminals of the watch group.

Let your neighborhood know your home is a safe haven for a child and they can go to it in case of an emergency.

Install a “wide angle” peep hole at a level that will be comfortable for your height. Don’t let anyone into your home unless they adequately show proper indentification. Even then confirm the person with the company they represent. If you have any suspicions don’t let them in. Tell them you will call for help if they need it and call the police of this contact.

Trim all shrubbery to waist level. Don’t have any shrubbery that will block windows or provide a place where an attacker my hide.

When you return home before unlocking you car doors, look around you and be sure there in no one is present or have followed you home. Some attacks have ocurred while a person was getting out of their car or walking to get into their home.

If possible have the outside light on a timer if you will be coming home after dark. It’s not good to have it on during the day. It will be a clear beacon that might let a criminal know you are not there but will be coming home after dark.

The day after Thanksgiving is usually called “Black Friday.” It is when most stores advertise their best bargins for the beginning of the Christmas shopping season. in fact, most retailers will take-in almost 30% of their entire yearly income during the weekend following Thanksgiving.

Along with these great deals comes a greater chance of you becoming a victim because thieves realize that during the frendzy of grabbing these deals people let down their guard. Here are some tips that might keep you out of harms way:
* Always be aware of your surroundings. Don’t get too caught up in trying to “out grab” the person in front of you.
* Try to shop with a friend or relative. There’s safety in numbers. If needed, one can watch what you have already purchased while the other can go for the next deal.
* Never leave a package unattended.

* Be careful when using the restroom. Packages have been stolen right at your feet under the bathroom stall partition.
* Don’t overload yourself or have a stranger help you.
* Park in a well lighted area. Always look into the back seat of the car before you get into your vehicle.
* Needless to say, always lock your vehicle and never leave packages in plain sight inside it. Put them into the trunk and watch around you while you do.
* If you feel uneasy about going to your vehicle, ask one of the security guards to walk with you to your car.
* When leaving the shopping mall watch in your rear view mirror to be sure you are not being followed. Many times a thief will followed a shopper home only to attack the victim in their own driveway. So be aware when you are exiting your car at home.
* Have a purse with straps long enough to go over your shoulder. Do not lay it down even for a second.
* Be careful showing the inside of your purse. keep it zipped or locked until you are checking out.
* Be aware if someone starts jostling or rubbing up against you. thats how pick-pockets draw away your attention.

Don’t let a few bad apples spoil your shopping day. Happy Holidays and hope you find tons of bargains!!!

Parents should know the area their children will be trick-or-treating in. Admonish them not to leave this area even if one of their friends tell them of another great place to trick-or-treat. Parents should accompany smaller children. Get together with your neighbors and go as a group. There is safety in numbers plus you will have as much fun as your children.

COSTUMES

* Purchase costumes, masks, beards, wigs, and costume accessories that are labeled “flame resistant”. These materials will resist burning. Keep away from flimsy-baggy sleeves and skirts.
* Buy or make costumes that are light, bright and easily seen by motorists. Place reflective tape on the costume and carry bags. Look for the tapes in your local hardware, bicycle, sporting goods or department stores such as Walmart or Kmart, etc.
* Each child should carry his/her own flashlight to see and be seen.
* Keep away from high-heeled or oversized shoes. Shoes should be well fitting and sturdy.
* Masks should be well fitted and have good ventilation with large eye holes for good vision.
* Swords, knives and similar costume accessories should be made of soft flexible materials.

TREATS

* Warn children not to eat any treats until you have inspected them for any signs of tampering.
* Carefully examine any toy or novelty items received by trick-or-treaters under 3 years of age. Do not allow any young children to have items small enough to cause a possible choking or that have small parts that may break off and become a choking hazard.

DECORATIONS

* Keep candles and jack-o-lanterns away from landings and doorsteps where costumes may come into contact with them.
* remove all obstacles from lawns, steps and porches when expecting trick-or-treaters.
* Indoors. keep candles and jack-o-lanterns away from curtains or from anything conbustible that could be ignited.
* Check all lights and extension cords for fraying or loose connections. Do not overload circuits with numerous decorations. Keep the decorations clear from the path a trick-or-treater will take to get to your door.

Have a safe, fun, and scary Halloween.

It’s back to school for many students. Several ride their bikes to school. Before the school season starts, it’s time to make a safety check for the bicycle and give safety training to the rider.

The most important thing to check is for proper tire pressure. Most bicycle tires are made out of Butyl Rubber. It is a porous rubber that seeps air so the tires should be checked on a regular basis. Low tire pressure will lead to improper control of the bicycle. Proper tire inflation will also make a more comfortable ride.

The brakes need to be tested and if necessary adjusted.

Do not lubricate the chain with WD-40. It is a good cleaner and moister preventer but it shouldn’t be used as a lubricant. One of the best lubricants is Tri-Flow Bike lube. It will not let dirt and road grit accumulate on the chain. Other things to check is bearing lubrication, proper seat adjustment. Make sure the handle bar is tightly secured, clean gears, rear reflector and both rear and front lights. If the student is carrying books and supplies a good carrier is also recommended. It is important to keep the hands free so that the rider can grip both handle bars while riding the bicycle.

Each student should attend a bike safety course. Most police departments offer a course or will direct you to one.

I came across an interesting idea. I’m not endorsing the company or it’s products, but only to give out the information.

Years ago I worked for a company that sold “safe rooms” and hidden safes. Yes, they were steel vaulted rooms with unique hiding accesses. Even the experienced intruder would never suspect there was anything behind this hiding technique. Each safe room had an actual safe door behind the whatever they used to hide the existance of the safe room. Needless to say, they were not inexpensive to have installed. To date no one has reported ever having their safe room or safe found after over 30 years they have been installing them.

The problem bought up by the company Burglar Bombs has a valid drawback to a safe room. While most crimes are on the decrease home invasions are on the increase, most invasions are done at night while the victims are sleeping and the intruder can get a surprise attack. So getting into a safe room is not viable. So what can you do to prevent being surprised attacked in your own bedroom?

The best security system has a delay time after it has been triggered. It takes time for the police to get to you. So why not have a device that will cause a would be intruder to flee your home in seconds before he can harm you or take any of your possesions?

Burglar Bombs feel they have the answer. Place one of their devices in the hallway leading to your bedroom. When triggered it puts out a fine mist of non-toxic pepper spray that will engulf the hallway. It effects the breathing of the assailent such as coughing and making it hard to breath. Needless to say, if that were happening to you, you would find the nearest exit to get away from the pepper spray. So the intruder leaves the home before actually getting to his objective, you.

They have several different devices to be used in the area you want protected. They can also be used in conjunction with your existing security system.
You can get more information on their website here.

So that long awaited vacation trip has now arrived. The whole family is excited to go on that cruise, tour that foriegn country or whattever your plans are. Preparing your home for this trip is as important as the trip itself. You will want to come home to the same home as you left it.

First, don’t broadcast your plans to anyone. Many people brag on their trip and you never know who might be listening, Tell the kids not to talk about it as well. Tell everyone about your trip when you get back. It will make a muh better story anyway.

Make your home look like someone is there.
Have a neighbor park his/her car in your driveway.
Have the lawn cut before you go. If need be, have it cut while you are gone.
Have the mail and news paper stopped or have it picked up by ssomeone.
Don’t hide a key to the house. Leave it with a neighbor or relative.
If you you use automatic lights have the kind that come on at different times. Not the same time everyday.
Unplug ALL electronic devices VcR’S, DVD Players , TV’s, Cable Boxes etc. They all have a circuit that is still active even if it is turned off.
Notify the police to watch over your property when they drive by. They would rather do that than fill out a burglary report.
If you have an alarm system, notify them what times you will be traveling and of course be sure you set the alarm before leaving.
Leave an itinerary with a neighbor or relative of where you will be staying and phone numbers that you can be contacted.
Have a list of all medications of family members and any medical needs they may have. List your doctor’s, your pharmacist’s, and at least one emergency contact person’s phone number.
Be sure you have all the necessary travel documents current. Pass ports and visa’s have and expiration date. Check with a travel agency or government office to see what documents you may need. Requirements change often so be sure ou have the latest and correct documents.
Some countrys require a special driver’s permit so don’t assume because you have a valid US driver’s license you can drive in that country.
Hope you have a great trip and take a lot of pictures. Oh yes, don’t forget the camera and film.

Effective June 21, 2008 , adult passengers (18 and over) are required to show a U S federal or state-issued ID that contains the following: Name, date of birth, gender, expiration date and tamper-resistant feature in order to be allowed to go through the check point and onto any flight.

Passengers who do not or cannot present an acceptable ID will have to provide information to the TSA Security Officer performing document checking duties in order to verify their identity. Passengers who are cleared through this process may be subject to additional screening. Passengers whose identity cannot be verified by the TSA may not be allowed to go through the check point or onto an airplane.

Acceptable ID’s:

* U. S. Passport
* U. S. Passport Card
* DHS “trusted traveler” cards (NEXUS. SENTRI, FAST)
* U. S. Military ID ( active duty or retired military and their dependents)
* Permanent Resident Card
* Boarder Crossing Card
* DHS-designated enhanced driver’s license
* Driver’s licenses or other state photo idenity cards issued by the Department of motor vehicles. (0r
equivalent) that meets REAL ID benchmarks. (all states are currently in compliance)
* A native American Tribal Photo ID
* An airline or airport issued ID (if issued under a TSA-apporved security plan)
* A foreign government issued passport
* Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) Card
* Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

Non-US/Canadian Citizens are not required to carry their passports if they have documents issued by the U. S. government such as permanent Resident Cards. Those who do not, should carry their passports while visiting the U. S.

Unfortunately, everyone, even babies have to be checked before boarding any flight through the security check point.

The TSA Officers are trained as to how to approach your child. They realize your concern and will gently treat your child with respect. Some children may react to a stranger and become irritable. When this happens the TSA Officer will consult you about the best way to relieve your childs concern. You must take your child out of any carrier before entering the x-ray machine.

Check with your carrier to see if your child needs his/her own ticket and boarding pass when you make your reservations.

All child related equipment that will fit through the x-ray machine must be checked. Examples: strollers, baby carriers, car and booster seats, back-packs, baby slings. When you arrive at the check point collapse or fold your child related equipment. Close up all pockets, baskets, or attached items on the equipment so as they will not get caught up in the x-ray machine. Place all loose items in the plastic basket provided at the check popint. If a piece of equipment is too large to go through the x-ray machine the TSA Officer will have to check it visually and physically inspaect it.

It is recommended that if your child can walk through without assistance, you both may be instrusted to do so. In the case of an infant, then you may carry the child through the metal detector with you. If the alarm sounds then the security officer will check both you and the infant manually. Remember, before entering the metal detector, remove your shoes and all metal objects, such as belts. Place them in the plastic carrier.

All liquids, including baby formula, breast milk, and juice will be inspected, however, you or your infant, toddler will not be asked to taste them. Be sure to declare these items for inspection.

All liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in a three-ounce or smaller container. Any containers that are half full or larger are not allowed. Place all three-ounce containers in a “Quart size” plastic bag.

Remember, all liquids must be placed in a single quart-sized zip lock plastic bag. Gallon bags or those that are folded over are not allowed. Each traveler is allowed only ONE quart sized bag. It must be removed from the carry-on luggage before screening. Carry only the needed amount of liquids for the flight with you.

If your child has a disability, you must declare it at the check-in area. A TSA Officer will assist you through check-in when requested.

You may go on-line here for more information about traveling with your child. Being prepared will make your flight more enjoyable and smooth.

I am really amazed at the advancement of closed circuit camera systems now available to the general public. Most systems now are “plug & play” so you don’t have to be a computer programmer to set up and use your own system.

One of the relatively newcomers to this market is company called SVAT. They have some really advanced systems that are user friendly. In the past you had to partition out different phases for what you wanted to achieve, but this product can do it with one simple DVR. (digital video recorder) SVAT systems automatically shift from daylight to darkness and can record in total darkness. It’s true you are limited to about fifteen feet seeing in total darkness so the placement of the camera can be critical. The day light hours are recorded in full color and can distiguish facial features clearly.

They have several systems ranging from one to sixteen cameras that can be used both inside as well as outside monitoring. Some come with a full color flat screen that you can have four cameras, quad screen, displayed at the same time. You may wish to view just one camera full screen by itself.

Most of the cameras have a “built-in” motion sensor so that the DVR will only record if there is movement. Most of their DVR’s can record up to 154 days before the hard drive is fully loaded. You may have the DVR over-write at that time if you wish or have the DVR stop recording at that time.

I have not used any of these sytems myself, but looking at all of their specifications, they look impressive. For more information about SVAT systems, click here.