When nice weather moves in, many of us let down our guard by • Leaving windows and doors open and *unlocked*, • Carrying excess items in our purses or wallets that can be used to steal our identity. And • Being too trusting of people who come to our door, offering to fix or sell us something. To avoid falling victim to a scam or a crime: • Keep your doors and windows locked. If you don’t have them already, consider installing sturdy locks on your screen and anterior doors, and having security pins installed in your windows. • If a sales person or contractor comes knocking, talk to them through a locked door, and do not agree to anything without first getting the details in writing. Also ask to see their sales permit and other identification. If something seems suspicious, contact the state’s consumer protection office or police. • If you are going for a walk, be careful with your purse and wallet. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, and don’t take any items with you that you do not absolutely need, such as social security cards. If you are going to be working in the garden or garage, don’t assume that your house and car are safe from a criminal. Put your keys in your pocket, and make sure to lock all house and car doors. And, before you toss anything in the trash make sure to shred or destroy anything that may contain personal information.