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On this episode, Leslie, George, and Meaghan discuss scams; types of scams, how to protect against them, and how to report them. Since they couldn’t possibly cover everything in one show, here is more information on the various types of scams. You can also find information specifically about imposter scams that appear to come from the US government here. This is also a census year in the US, be aware of people impersonating census takers. For more information on what to expect, check out the Census Bureau page.

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Meaghan, George, and Leslie discuss navigating college life, and important safety tips for using ride share services. Some of the most important tips covered in this episode are: limiting distractions while walking at night, letting others know where you are going , signing up for campus security alerts, getting to know your neighbors, and researching your campuses safety resources, such as call boxes and escort services. For a more comprehensive list, check out this article from the college express website.
Although use a ride share service such as Uber or Lyft can be a great option for getting home safe, there are some important things to remember when scheduling your ride. Confirm that you are getting in the correct vehicle buy asking your driver’s name and who they are there to pick up. Never give them your name or ask, “is your name…?” It is too easy for a impersonator to lie and tell you that’s who they are. If you are able to visually confirm the driver by their picture or the make and model of their car, it is always a good habit to get into. We can never stress strongly enough how important it is to let others know where you are or where you are going. If you do get into a vehicle and feel unsafe, you can always share your ride through the ride share app or via text message by sending your location. Never feel ashamed to make up an excuse to get the driver to drop you off in a public place if you feel that you need to get out of the car. This may also be a good time to use some of those safety apps discussed in our second show, “calling for Help” and in Meaghan’s review.

Providing Feedback

We want to hear from you, so please send an email to feedback@handsonsafety.net. You can follow us on Facebook and Twitter. . Soon, you will also be able to find us on the web, for resources and other safety related topics.

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As a follow-up to the previous show, Leslie, Meaghan and George discuss options for continuing to stay safe after the storm or disaster. They talk about issues such as keeping documents safe in various formats and keeping food for as long as possible. The team also discuss ways to let other’s no you are safe, finding local and national resources, and getting counseling.
To register with the red cross that you are safe, text “safe” to 78876, or to register and look for people go through the Red Cross’s Safe and Well Center. You can also reach them by calling 1-800-733-2767.
Local resources for caregivers, the elderly and people with disabilities can be found through ElderCare or by calling 1-800-677-1116.
If you need disaster assistance, you can apply through a local FEMA agency which can be located through FEMA’s disaster assistance finder or by calling their help line at 1-800-621-3362. And to get more information you can find videos covering a variety of disaster topics in FEMA’s media library.
And finally, if you need counseling to assist with emotional stress due to a disaster, SAMHSA has a 24/7 crisis hotline which can be accessed in the U.S. by calling 1-800-985-5990 or you can text “TalkWithUs” to 66746. Canadian residence can find assistance here.

Providing Feedback

We want to hear from you, so please send an email to feedback@handsonsafety.net. You can follow us on Facebook and Twitter. . Soon, you will also be able to find us on the web, for resources and other safety related topics.