Retired Police Sergeant Bob Paterson works with The McLennan Group Insurance Inc. to develop and share practical, economical safety tips for Canadians 50-plus. To read and print more safety tips, and to view Sergeant Bob’s appearance schedule, visit SeniorSafetyTips.ca.
A Senior Safety Tip Special Report – May 2022
SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING: A Civilian’s Role in Fighting Terrorism
Following April’s Crime Stoppers reminder, Sergeant Bob introduces you to “See Something, Say Something”, a community safety campaign designed to heighten awareness and enlist community support in the war against terrorism and terrorism-related crime.
Developed in post-911 New York City, the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) and RCMP adapted and launched the Canadian See Something Say Something in December 2021. RCMP Assistant Commissioner Mark Flynn said of Canadians “They are most familiar with their surroundings and know best what fits into their daily routine and, more importantly, what does not.”
Observations that can be forwarded to the hot line include individuals showing unusual interest in buildings and their security features, breaches, intrusions, trespassing, tampering, unusual photography, expressed or implied threats, etc.
While the presence of a single behaviour does not constitute a national security threat or other serious criminal activity, a cluster of behaviours may indicate suspicious activity worthy of close examination. An occurrence may seem unimportant, but combined with other information, may reveal a greater threat. When an incident occurs or intelligence is received regarding a potential threat, early reporting is key to ensuring a timely response. So law enforcement agencies across Canada linked to See Something, Say Something encourage you to report suspicious activity ASAP to allow them to respond and take a closer look at what’s going on.
The CACP encourage you to be alert and contact the campaign Hot Line: 1-800-420-5805 if your suspicions are raised. For more information on See Something, Say Something, please visit the CACP website.
Senior Safety Tips COVID-19 Update
FRAUD ALERT: Investment Safety Reminder for Seniors
Sergeant Bob doesn’t provide investment advice but does remind investors – seniors in particular – to slow down and do your research before investing, especially during COVID-19 when scammers have been more aggressive.
This is a timely reminder, following an extensive RCMP investigation and January 2022 sentencing of two Individuals convicted of defrauding 1,900 investors out of millions. Even with the conviction, the chance of victims recovering any lost money is low.
It may sound simple, but alarm bells should be going off when a deal sounds “too good to be true”, such as the promise of high return with NO risk. Other signs to watch for include the advisor and/or company no being registered, any suggestion of insider information, and being forced to “invest now”.
Sergeant Bob recommends that you follow his general C.P.R. fraud prevention guidelines, and stop the investment process if:
• C – you are feeling CONFUSED • P – you are feeling PRESSURED • R – you are feeling RUSHED.
For tips on avoiding investor fraud and professional advice on ethical investing, individuals and investment firms look to:
• The Canadian Anti Fraud Centre • Canadian Securities Administrators
Senior Safety Tips COVID-19 Update
STAY ALERT - Coronavirus (COVID-19) Scam Alerts
It’s unfortunate, but from counterfeit PPE offerings to fraudulent COVID-19 surveys and test results, and the too-good-to-be-true investment opportunities, the scammers are everywhere. Sergeant Bob can help guide seniors through this period of instability and high risk. Please share and remember these scam prevention tips:
- C - Computer / email crime. These forms of e-crime are rampant. If you’re feeling confused, pressured or rushed - delete it! – To learn more, read Sergeant Bob’s E-Crime Review.
- O - Online COVID-19 surveys. The vast majority are scams designed to gather personal information. Ignore or delete them.
- V - Volunteering or donating? Do research to ensure organizations are legitimate before sharing personal / bank information.
- I - Investing. Investing in this time is high risk. Scammers recognize agitation, desperation, confusion. Do your research and never allow yourself to be rushed into making a decision.
- D - Drugs, treatments, equipment, supplies & advice. Must come only from your established, reputable health care providers.
Senior Safety Tips COVID-19 Update
Respect Disabled Parking Spots: “I was only there for a minute” doesn’t just cut it!
Because of COVID-19, you’ll likely see changes to parking lots and signage as we adapt to pedestrian access, physical distancing, cart sanitizing, barriers, etc. Let’s take care of those who need our assistance whether it’s inside the building or in the parking area.
It should go without saying that the designated parking spots and disabled permits are intended to minimize discomfort and risk to individuals dealing with a temporary or permanent health issue. And yet, some drivers without the legitimate permit routinely use the spots marked for disabled parking.
- If you have a legitimate parking permit, ensure that it is CLEARLY DISPLAYED so there’s no confusion or argument.
- STAY OUT of the spots designated for disabled parking unless you are authorized to use them.
When the appropriate charge is laid by police or bylaw officer, the common response is “But I was only in the spot for a minute”. This excuse is of no interest to the person laying the charge or to the person with a disability circling the parking lot in frustration.
