Ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail and newspaper, and offer to return the favor.

Leave word about when you’re leaving, when you’ll return, and how you can be reached in an emergency.

Put automatic timers on at least two lights (and possibly a radio) to help your home look and sound lived-in.

Con-artists are not always easy to spot. Smart, extremely persuasive, and aggressive, they invade your home through the telephone and the mail, advertise in reputable newspapers and magazines, and come to your door. Most people think they’re too smart to fall for a scam. But con artists rob all kinds of people from investment counselors and doctors to teenagers and elderly widows of billions every year. It’s up to you to say no. Use common sense and learn about old and new scams.

Don’t blame the victim or tell him or her not to be upset, angry, or afraid. Be a comfort and do what you can to ease the situation.

If the victim hasn’t told the police, offer to help with a report.

Offer to help the victim repair damage from a crime, replace a windowpane, install a new lock, replace important papers or help with day-to-day needs like transportation, baby-sitting, and cooking.

Be willing to just sit and listen to the victim talk about the crime. It can help some victims to talk, although others will not want to. Don’t try to make a victim talk if he or she does not want to!

Ask your local police about victims’ counseling and support groups in the area, and encourage the victim to take part.

Ask what you can do to help in the future, and make it a point to get back in touch.

Look for ways to settle arguments and disagreements without violence. Remember: if you resort to violence to settle disputes, a child may well follow your example. Be a good role model.

Use good manners to help ease tensions that can lead to violence. Teach kids that showing respect for themselves and for the needs of others can prevent crime.

Report crimes and suspicious activities to police; agree to testify when necessary. If you want to live in a safe community, stand up for what you believe in.

Don’t support illegal activities, like buying stolen property or using illegal drugs. It’s the wrong message to send to a child, and it involves you in criminal activity. It also encourages more crime that hurts you and your neighbors.