Money and Safety

1. Money and Safety

2. Cash • Most Americans do not carry large amounts of cash or keep large amounts of cash in their bedrooms or apartments. • Generally, Americans keep money in the bank, use credit cards and debit cards, or (less frequently) write checks. • Cash is not replaceable and not insured. If it’s lost or stolen, it is gone and there is nothing you can do.

3. We recommend that you… • Open a bank account as soon as possible and keep the majority of your money in it. • Have family members transfer money to your bank account. • Use credit and debit cards rather than carrying large amounts of cash. • Use traveler’s checks if you cannot get a bank account. (Some places will not accept traveler’s checks). • Do not carry much cash!!

4. Safety at Home • Keep your doors locked when you are at home. • List only your last name and first initial on your mailbox • Never be alone in the laundry room or other common area in an apartment complex

5. Using Craigslist or other Classifieds to buy/sell items • Insist on a public meeting place like a cafe • Do not give your address or home phone number to strangers • Do not meet in a secluded place, or invite strangers into your home • Do not meet early in the morning or late at night • Be especially careful when buying/selling high value items • Tell friends or family members where you're going, what you’re doing, and when you expect to be back. • Take your cell phone with you • Have friends accompany you for the meeting • If you see something suspicious, leave immediately • Trust your instincts

6. Safety at Home • Call 911 to report all suspicious activities (and for emergencies). • Know your neighbors. Get their phone numbers. • Plan an escape route from your home in case of emergency (fire, earthquake, break-in).

7. Answering the Door • Do not answer the door unless you know who is there. • Do not answer the door for a delivery person unless you are expecting a delivery. • You can ask solicitors to show you a permit from SDPD (or post a “no soliciting” sign on your door). • Never let a stranger into your home.

8. Answering the Door • If you feel uncomfortable about anyone who knocks on your door, call 911. • http://www.spike.com/video-clips/gytf2i/land-shark

9. Answering the Phone • Never admit to a stranger that you are home alone. • Never give any personal information (Name, Telephone Number, Address, SSN). • Never give credit card or bank details over the phone.

10. Returning Home • Leave lights on (both inside and outside the home) if you know you will be returning after dark. • Have the person driving you home wait until you are inside before they drive away. • Have your key in hand so that you can open the door immediately. • Don’t go in if you suspect that someone has broken in to your home. Go to a neighbor’s or friend’s home and call the police.

11. At The ATM • Stand 3 – 4 feet away from the person who is at the machine. • Don’t let people stand near or right behind you when you are at the machine. • DO NOT COUNT YOUR MONEY AT THE MACHINE!!

12. Be Aware At All Times • Watch for pickpockets – people may put their hand in your pocket or purse and steal your wallet or money, especially in crowded areas. • Don’t put your belongings where you cannot see them.

13. Safety in Mexico(from gocalifornia.about.com) • Many people like to visit Tijuana which is located at the border of Mexico and the United States • It can be a interesting cultural experience, but Tijuana in recent years has not been very safe • Here are some tips to stay safe in Mexico:

14. Safety in Mexico(from gocalifornia.about.com) • Take cash: US Dollars are fine. Use ATMs only for emergencies • Bring documentation: Citizens of other countries need valid passports and a valid I-94, multi-entry visa or visa waiver. • Time your trip: It can take over three hours to get back into the U. S. from Tijuana on Saturday evening. Leave by mid-afternoon, or go on a less-busy day. • Beggars: There are many in Tijuana, some children. Giving them money won't help the problem. Instead, you can contribute to a charity that helps needy people instead. • Beware of young girls selling flowers: Pickpockets may try to distract you by trying to sell you something while at the same time lifting your wallet. • Say no. Tijuana shopkeepers want your attention, and they all have a way of getting it. • Wear comfortable walking shoes. Walking is the best way to see Tijuana. • Leave expensive jewelry at home. • Take a Map.

15. Link to SDSU’s Police Department • http://www.dps.sdsu.edu/personalsafe.htm#walking • (More information about public safety, including statistics and references)

16. Useful Websites • http://mapping.arjis.org/CrimeMAPS/ - This website allows users to enter their address and see a map of crimes that have occurred in the surrounding area. • http://apps.sandiego.gov/ewatch/index.jsp - This website allows users to sign up for a neighborhood e-watch. Users will receive e-mail reports of crime in their area. • http://www.meganslaw.ca.gov/ - Users enter their address and find out if registered sex offenders live in their area.