Police Safety Tips & Information

Indiana Code 9-21-11: Bicycles & Motorized Bicycles 1) A bicycle can not be used to carry more persons at one time than the number for which the bicycle is designed and equipped. 2) A person upon a bicycle, a coaster, roller skates, or a toy vehicle may not attach the bicycle, coaster, roller skates, or toy vehicle or the person to a streetcar or vehicle upon a roadway. 3) A person who rides a bicycle may not carry a package, a bundle, or an article that prevents the person from keeping both hands upon the handlebars. 4) A person may not ride a bicycle unless the bicycle is equipped with a bell or other device capable of giving a signal audible for a distance of at least 100 feet. A bicycle may not be equipped with and a person may not use upon a bicycle a siren or whistle. 5) A bicycle operated on a highway from one-half hour after sunset until one-half hour before sunrise must be equipped with a lamp on the front exhibiting a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front and a lamp on the rear exhibiting a red light visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear or a red reflector visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear. 6) A bicycle must be equipped with a brake that will enable the person who operates the bicycle to make the braked wheels skid on dry, level, clean pavement. Indiana Code 9-21-11-12: Motorized bicycles (Mopeds); Prohibitions on Operation; Conditions A motorized bicycle may not be operated under any of the following conditions: 1) By a person less than 15 years of age. 2) By a person who has not obtained an Identification Card (or driver’s license) from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. 3) On an interstate highway or a sidewalk. 4) At a speed greater than 25 miles per hour. 5) A person less than 18 years of age who operates or rides a motorized bicycle on a street or highway shall wear protective headgear meeting minimum requirements established by the USDOT, and they shall wear protective glasses, goggles, or a transparent face shield. 6) Those who violate these statutes commit a Class C Infraction. Indiana Code 14-16: Regulation of Land Recreation 1) ATVs and snowmobiles may not be operated on public property unless they are registered. 2) An individual may not operate a vehicle required to be registered upon a public highway, street, or rights-of-way thereof or on a public or private parking lot not specifically designed for the use of vehicles. 3) Read the Indiana Code 14-16-1-20 for exceptions to this statute. 4) An individual less that 14 years of age may not operate a vehicle without immediate supervision of an individual at least 18 years of age, except on land owned or under the control of the individual or the individual’s parent or legal guardian. 5) A vehicle may not be used to hunt, pursue, worry, or kill a wild bird or a domestic or wild animal. 6) A vehicle may not be operated between sunset and sunrise unless the vehicle has at least 1 headlight and 1 taillight. 7) A vehicle may not be operated at any time unless the vehicle has adequate brakes capable of producing deceleration at 14 feet per second on level ground at a speed of 20 miles per hour. 8) An individual shall not operate a vehicle at a rate of speed greater than is reasonable and proper having due regard for existing conditions or in a manner that unnecessarily endangers the person or property of another. 9) An individual shall not operate a vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or illegal narcotics/habit forming depressants or stimulants. 10) An individual shall not operate a vehicle during the hours 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise without displaying a lighted headlight and taillight. 11) An individual shall not operate a vehicle unless the vehicle is equipped with a muffler in good working order and in constant operation to prevent excessive or unusual noise and annoying smoke. 12) An individual shall not operate a vehicle within 100 feet of a dwelling between midnight and 6:00 AM except on the individual’s own property or property under the individual’s control or as an invited guest. 13) An individual shall not operate a vehicle on any property without consent of the landowner or tenant, on or across a cemetery or burial ground, or on a railroad track or railroad right-of-way. 14) A person who violates these statues commits a Class C Infraction or a Class B Misdemeanor. Read IC 14-16-1 for full statute text.

Every parent who tells their child, “Don’t talk to strangers,” is performing a disservice that probably causes more harm than good. A confining and negative declaration based on bad information, it is a holdover from a time of limited awareness. Only 14% of sexual offenders are strangers to their victims, and for male victims under age twelve, 40% of offenders were family members compared with 47% of the offenders of females under age twelve. “Don’t talk to strangers” sends a mixed message to children who watch us consistently converse with strangers, and it eliminates viable safety options such as women, police officers in uniform or other children, to name but a few, for endangered children. CHILDREN: 1) I will always tell my parents where I am going and when I’ll be home and return home before dark. 2) I will always play or go places with at least one other person - NOT alone. 3) I know my body belongs to me. I will trust my feelings. I will say NO and run away from a situation that doesn’t feel right. 4) There are certain kinds of strangers that can assist me when I need help. For instance: mothers with children, other children, police in uniform or store clerks in the mall. 5) I will walk and play at places my parents said were OK. I will avoid shortcuts or alleys. 6) I will not allow adults to trick or force me into going places or doing things like; help find pets, carry packages, take pictures, play games, or take drugs with them. I will always check with my parents first. 7) I will not accept candy, money, gifts or rides from any adult without my parent’s permission. 8) I will always lock my home and car doors. I will not tell anyone that I am home alone. 9) I will learn to dial 911. I will learn to use the pay phone without money. I will learn my address and phone number. 10) I will always walk against traffic on the sidewalk. PARENTS: 1) Maintain current ID, including photograph, video and fingerprints. 2) Maintain current addresses and phone numbers of your children’s friends. 3) It is important to keep all doors and windows locked. 4) Do not advertise your child’s name on clothing, school supplies or backpacks. One of the key steps in ensuring your children’s security is maintaining complete and updated records on your child. The KlaasKids Foundation can help you accomplish this task by providing you with their Child Identification Kit. With the Child Identification Kit you can document your children’s privacy and identifying information; record their fingerprints with our handy fingerprint ink strip and attach updated photographs. Then, if your child does become lost, immediately follow the nine-point plan that is provided to ensure that you have contacted the relevant agencies and organizations and give the completed Child Identification Kit to the first police officer on the scene. This will provide law enforcement with important information with which to launch an investigation. To download the Child ID Kit and print it out on your own printer, open the file to the left. You must have Adobe Acrobat Reader (it's free) to see the document. Please print the Child ID Kit on 90lb index card stock. For the best result ask your local law enforcement to ink your child's fingerprints

WHAT IS A PROTECTION ORDER? It's a document issued by a court, to help you protect yourself from someone who is abusing or harassing you. Any adult may petition a judge for an "order of protection" A PROTECTION ORDER CAN HELP: SET LIMITS - For example, it can require the abuser to keep away from you and your home. SEND A STRONG MESSAGE - Getting a protection order lets the abuser know you won't put up with abusive behavior. _____________________________________________________________________________ WHY LEARN ABOUT PROTECTION ORDERS? Because they can be useful tools for ending - or preventing -abuse. Abuse Can Take A Terrible Toll On Your: SELF-ESTEEM - Abuse can make it hard for you to feel good about yourself. you may even come to believe that you deserve the mistreatment --that's never true! HEALTH- Physical abuse can lead to serious injury --or death. But any kind of abuse creates emotional stress, which can damage health in many ways. LIFE - Living with abuse -- or the threat of abuse -- can be a nightmare for you and your whole family. CHILDREN'S FUTURE - Living in an abusive household makes a child more likely to continue the pattern of abuse --either as victim or abuser. _____________________________________________________________________________ LEARN TO RECOGNIZE ABUSE The first step to getting a protection order is deciding whether you need one. PHYSICAL ABUSE and the fear it creates can effect every aspect of a woman's life. Physical abuse includes: hitting using a weapon shoving twisting an arm choking holding a woman against her will EMOTIONAL ABUSE may be more difficult to recognize than physical abuse, but emotional abuse is just as serious. Emotional abuse includes: making threats Humiliating a woman by putting her down, calling her names, telling her she's selfish, not good enough, etc. Taking or destroying a woman's personal property. Forbidding her to leave the house or see friend. SEXUAL ABUSE can involve a female of any age -- single or married. It can include: Rape (sex forced on a person, whether or not the 2 people are partners) Pressuring a person to have sex. Making comments or behaving in ways that make a woman feel like a sexual object. STALKING is a pattern of harassing a woman. In Indiana, stalking is a crime. It can involve: Class C Felony A threat and puts the victim in fear of sexual battery, serious bodily injury or death. A violation of a protective order order, no contact order to protect teh alledged victim. A violation of a prtrial release, or bond violation, or in violation of probation "Staking out" a woman's home or workplace. In many cases, a woman who is being stalked is in great danger. Stalking often leads to a violent crime. Class B Felony Was committed with the use of a deadly weapon, or you have an unrelated conviction for stalking the same individual _____________________________________________________________________________ FALSE HOPES CAN BE DANGEROUS A woman who believes the abuse will stop by itself or become less frequent is putting herself at risk. The abuser may apologize and promise it won't happen again, but in most cases the abuse continues and even gets worse. _____________________________________________________________________________ WHAT CAN A PROTECTION ORDER DO? Every state is different, but in many places a protection order can require an abuser to: STAY AWAY FROM YOU--at home, at work and anywhere you go. A protection order can also prohibit the abuser from contacting you by telephone or mail. MOVE OUT, if the two of you live together, whether as partners or just house mates, you can ask that a police officer be on the scene when the abuser collects his belongings. GET INTO A COUNSELING PROGRAM that focuses on battering, substance abuse or both, if appropriate. _____________________________________________________________________________ IF CHILDREN ARE INVOLVED, A PROTECTION ORDER MAY ALSO: GIVE YOU TEMPORARY CUSTODY - This generally lasts until the court makes a final decision about custody. REQUIRE SUPERVISED VISITS - The abuser can be barred from spending time with his children unless a worker from a social service agency is present. ORDER CHILD SUPPORT PAYMENTS - The abuser may be required to send you money each month to help meet your children's needs for food, clothes, medical care, etc. _____________________________________________________________________________ BUT A PROTECTION ORDER CAN'T GUARANTEE YOUR SAFETY An abuser can be arrested for violating the order, but it's not always possible to prevent a violation. _____________________________________________________________________________ BUILD YOUR CASE It may help you in court, if you decide to apply for a protection order. NOTIFY THE POLICE - If possible, call the police during an incident of abuse or immediately afterward. The sooner you notify them, the stronger your case will be if you go to court. Get the responding officers' names. GATHER EVIDENCE - This will also help to make your case stronger. Try to: 1. Have a friend to take photographs of your injuries right after an incident of physical abuse -- or ask the police to do it. Be sure to note the time and date the photos were taken. 2. Save torn or bloody clothing and anything else that could serve as evidence of abuse. _____________________________________________________________________________ HOW TO APPLY FOR A PROTECTION ORDER FIRST, GET ADVICE - Talk to the police or call a local women's shelter. Find out: 1. What a protection order can and can't do for you. 2. what procedure to follow for getting a protection order in your area. 3. Which court provides the proper forms. (You may be able to choose between civil, criminal and family court.) FILE THE FORMS - You may obtain the form from your local court house and/or find them online. For Indiana, click here. If you happen to obtain the form from a law enforcement agency, note that the form must be signed before the clerk at the Court. You will be asked to write about the abusive treatment you suffered. Provide as many details as you can. Include the dates of any instances of abuse. If the abuse affected your children, write that down too. Ask the court clerk to help you file the forms. GO TO YOUR HEARING: An emergency protection order may be issued immediately and stay in effect until your hearing. The hearing will take place within a few weeks of the day you file. At the hearing, the Judge will determine whether or not to issue a FULL ORDER OF PROTECTION. The Full Order of Protection is good for 180 days. You may file addition petitions near the end of the 180 days if necessary. Be sure to: 1. Arrive on time. (If you miss the hearing, your case will be dismissed) 2. Dress neatly. 3. Speak clearly and speak only to the judge. 4. Try to stay calm. Remember, the abuser will probably come to the hearing and may say things that upset you. AFTER YOUR HEARING, ASK THE COURT CLERK FOR A CERTIFIED COPY OF THE PROTECTION ORDER. _____________________________________________________________________________ DO YOUR PART To see that the protection order works. Enforcing a protection order is a team effort. Remember To: REPORT ANY VIOLATION OF THE ORDER - to the police immediately. If you don't take the order seriously, the police or court may not either. CARRY YOUR PROTECTION ORDER WITH YOU at all times. The police will be more likely to make an arrest if they see that a protection order is in effect and has been violated. VOID MAKING DELIBERATE CONTACT with the abuser. A protection order tells the abuser to stay away from you, but you're expected to live by the "no contact" terms, too. _____________________________________________________________________________ PLAN FOR YOUR SAFETY Remember -- a protection order is only a piece of paper. Take other steps to protect yourself. If You Don't Have A Protection Order: PLAN FOR A QUICK ESCAPE - Going to a woman's shelter or the home of family or friends may be the first step in escaping an abusive situation. Try To: 1. Pack a suitcase, and leave it with a friend or neighbor. 2. Hide an extra set of car keys. 3. Put aside emergency money and any important papers you'll need. 4. Plan where to go and how to get there, at any time of the day or night. EVEN IF YOU DO HAVE A PROTECTION ORDER, IT'S A GOOD IDEA TO: KEEP EMERGENCY NUMBERS HANDY - Make sure you have numbers for: 1. The Police 2. An Ambulance 3. A battered women's hotline INSTALL SECURE LOCKS ON DOORS AND WINDOWS - Keep your house locked at all times, and consider installing a peephole in your front door. Never let the abuser in --for any reason. IF YOU HAVE CHILDREN AND DECIDE TO LEAVE, TAKE YOUR CHILDREN WITH YOU. _____________________________________________________________________________ SOME QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS WHO CAN FILE FOR A PROTECTION ORDER? - Each state has its own rules. Depending on where you live, you may be eligible for a protection order even if: 1. You're not married to the abuser 2. You don't live with the abuser 3. Your partner is a woman 4. The abuser is your own child. WOULD IT HELP TO GET A LAWYER? Getting legal counsel is a good idea, but it doesn't necessarily mean hiring a lawyer. Women's shelters often have legal advocates who can answer questions and even go to court with you. If you decide to find a lawyer, look for one with experience in family law. DOES IT COST ANYTHING TO FILE? There is no cost to file the initial application. However if the Judge determines at the hearing that the application was filed without just cause, he may order the applicant to pay the cost of the service of the papers. _____________________________________________________________________________ RESOURCES OF AVAILABLE SHELTER AND ASSISTANCE EMERGENCY: 911 COUNSELING/SUPPORT GROUPS: Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ICADV)..............1-800-332-7385 Salvation Army..........................................................1-800-336-4547 Parental Stress Help Line.......................................1-800-367-2543 Adult Abuse Hotline (Division of Aging).............1-800-392-0210 Alcohol and Drug Abuse Referral Hotline...........1-800-252-6465 National Organization for Domestic Abuse .......1-800-879-6682 Alliance For The Mentally Ill. ...................................1-800-677-6442 Catholic Charities.......................................................1-800-666-9990 Cocaine Hotline...........................................................1-800-662-HELP Veterans Information..................................................1-800-392-3761 Vietnam Outreach Program......................................1-800-231-1263 Youth Crisis & Runaway..............................................1-800-HIT-HOME

In 2022, Indiana repealed its longstanding law that required a person carrying a concealed firearm in public to obtain a license and background check. As of July 1, 2022, anyone 18 years-of-age or older who is not prohibited from firearm possession by state or federal law may generally carry a concealed handgun in public. A person is not eligible to knowingly or intentionally carry a handgun, and is not eligible for a license to carry, who: 1) Has been convicted of a federal or state offense punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year (not including a federal or state crime or offense pertaining to antitrust violations, unfair trade practices, restraints of trade, or other similar offenses relating to the regulation of business practices.); 2) Is a fugitive from justice (defined as someone who flees or leaves from any state to avoid prosecution for a felony or misdemeanor offense or flees or leaves any state to avoid testifying in a criminal proceeding); 3) Is an alien (defined as someone who has entered the United States without inspection and authorization by an immigration officer; and has not been paroled into the United States under the federal Immigration and Nationality Act; a nonimmigrant whose authorized period of stay has expired, or who has violated the terms of the nonimmigrant category under which the person was admitted; a person paroled under the federal Immigration and Nationality Act whose period of parole has expired; or been terminated; and a person subject to an order of deportation, exclusion, or removal, or to depart the United States voluntarily), regardless of whether or not the person has left the United States; 4) Is a person convicted of: a) A crime of domestic violence as defined in Ind. Code Ann. § 35-31.5-2-78; b) Domestic battery as defined in Ind. Code Ann. § 35-42-2-1.3; or c) Criminal stalking as defined in Ind. Code Ann. § 35-45-10-5; 5) Is a person restrained by an order of protection issued under Ind. Code Ann. § 34-26-5. 6) Is a person under indictment (defined as any formal accusation of a crime made by a prosecuting attorney in any court for a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year). 7) Is a person who has been: a) Adjudicated dangerous under Ind. Code Ann. § 35-47-14-6; b) Adjudicated a mental defective; or c) Committed to a mental institution. 8) Is a person dishonorably discharged from: a) Military service; or b) The National Guard. 9) Is a person who renounces the person’s United States citizenship in the manner described in 8 U.S.C. 1481. 10) Is a person who is less than: a) Eighteen years of age; or b) Twenty-three years of age and has an adjudication as a delinquent child for an act described by Ind. Code Ann. § 35-47-4-5; A person who would be ineligible for a license to carry but is otherwise eligible to possess a handgun under state or federal law may nevertheless carry a handgun: 1) On property that is owned, leased, rented, or otherwise legally controlled by the person or while lawfully present on property that is owned, leased, rented, or otherwise legally controlled by another, if the person: a) Has the consent of the owner, renter, lessor, or person who legally controls the property to have the handgun on the premises; b) Is attending a firearms related event on the property, including a gun show, firearms expo, gun owner’s club or convention, hunting club, shooting club, or training course; or c) Is on the property to receive firearms related services, including the repair, maintenance, or modification of a firearm. 2) At a shooting range; 3) While attending a firearms instructional course; or 4) While engaged in a legal hunting activity. A person who would be ineligible for a license to carry may also carry a handgun in a vehicle under certain circumstances. Indiana has retained its licensing law to allow people who wish to carry in states that require licenses to be able to obtain one. Under state law, the Indiana State Police (ISP) generally must issue a concealed weapons license if the applicant meets certain qualifications. The Superintendent of the Indiana State Police (Superintendent) shall issue a license to carry a handgun if it appears that the applicant: 1) Has a proper reason for carrying a handgun (i.e., “for the defense of oneself or the state of Indiana; 2) Is of good character and reputation; 3) Is a citizen of the United States, or not a citizen of the United States but allowed to carry a firearm under federal law; and 4) Is a “proper person” to be licensed. A “proper person” is defined as someone who: 1) Does not have a conviction for resisting law enforcement within five years of his or her application; 2) Does not have a conviction for a crime for which he or she could have been sentenced for more than one year; 3) Does not have a conviction for a crime of domestic violence (as defined in § 35-41-1-6.3), unless a court has restored that person’s “right to possess a firearm” under section 35-47-4-7; 4) Is not prohibited by a court order from possessing a handgun; 5) Does not have a record of being an alcohol or drug abuser as defined in Chapter 35-47-1; 6) Does not have documented evidence which would give rise to a reasonable belief that he or she has a propensity for violent or emotionally unstable conduct; 7) Does not make a false statement of material fact on his or her application; 8) Does not have a conviction for any crime involving an inability to safely handle a handgun; 9) Does not have a conviction for violation of the provisions of Title 35, Article 47 within five years of his or her application; 10) Does not have an adjudication as a delinquent child for an act that would be a felony if committed by an adult, if the person applying for a license or permit is less than 23 years of age; 11) Has not been involuntarily committed, other than a temporary commitment for observation or evaluation, to a mental institution by a court, board, commission, or other lawful authority; 12) Has not been adjudicated mentally ill and dangerous or gravely disabled and committed for a ninety day commitment or a regular commitment to a mental health facility; Has not been found by a court to be mentally incompetent, including not guilty by reason of insanity; guilty but mentally ill; or incompetent to stand trial. Furthermore, a person is not a “proper person” if he or she: 1) Has a history of minor criminal activity which would give rise to a reasonable belief that he or she has a propensity for violent or emotionally unstable conduct; 2) Is found, upon a standard of reasonable belief, not to be emotionally stable; or 3) Makes a false statement of material fact on his or her application. A license to carry a handgun may not be issued to any person who: 1) Has been convicted of a felony; 2) Has had a license to carry a handgun suspended, unless the person’s license has been reinstated; 3) Is under 18 years of age; 4) Is under 23 years of age if the person has been adjudicated a delinquent child for an act that would be a felony if committed by an adult; 5) Has been arrested for a Class A or Class B felony, or any other felony that was committed while armed with a deadly weapon or that involved the use of violence, if a court has found probable cause to believe that the person committed the offense charged; or 6) Is prohibited by federal law from possessing or receiving firearms. An investigation to determine whether possession of a firearm by an applicant would be a violation of state or federal law must include the consulting of available local, state, and federal criminal history data banks, including the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).10 Licenses to carry handguns are either “qualified” or “unlimited.”11 A qualified license will be issued for hunting and target practice only. An unlimited license is issued for the purpose of the protection of life and property. The Superintendent must include information concerning handgun safety rules with every issued license, that: 1) Neither opposes nor supports an individual’s right to bear arms; 2) Is recommended by a nonprofit educational organization that is dedicated to providing education on safe handling and use of firearms; 3) Is prepared by the ISP; and 4) Is approved by the Superintendent. Firearms Safety Training Indiana does not require applicants for a license to carry a handgun to undergo training or testing in firearms safety. Duration & Renewal A license to carry a handgun is valid for a period of five years from the date of issue in the case of a “five (5) year license,” but for the lifetime of the individual in the case of a “lifetime license.” The licenses of police officers, sheriffs or their deputies, and law enforcement officers of the United States government who have been honorably retired by a lawfully created pension board or its equivalent after 20 or more years of service are lifetime licenses. However, lifetime licenses are automatically revoked if the license holder does not remain a “proper person” to carry a handgun. Disclosure or Use of Information The following information is confidential, may not be published, and is not open to public inspection: 1) Information submitted by a person to obtain or renew a license to carry a handgun; 2) Information obtained by a federal, state, or local government entity in the course of an investigation concerning a person who applies to obtain or renew a license to carry a handgun; and 3) The name, address, and any other information that may be used to identify a person who holds a license to carry a handgun issued under this chapter. However, information may be released to a government entity for law enforcement purposes or to determine the validity of a license. In addition, general information that does not disclose the identity of a person who holds a license to carry a handgun may be released for purposes of journalistic or academic research. Reciprocity Licenses to carry handguns, issued by other states or foreign countries, will be recognized according to the terms in the license and of the issuing state or country, but only while the holders are not residents of Indiana. Also, if the applicant is a resident of another state and has a regular place of business or employment in Indiana, he or she must apply for an Indiana license to carry a handgun to the sheriff of the county in which the applicant has a regular place of business or employment. Indiana Firearm Permits are honored by more than 30 other U.S. States. Although ISP does not track this specific information, organizations such as the NRA, and websites such as http://www.handgunlaw.us/ do attempt to track reciprocity. Any time you are in doubt, always contact the agency of authority in the specific state to which, or through which, you will be traveling.

Did you know that there is a town ordinance regarding the use of golf carts in town? If you didn't, you do now. It is not illegal to use a golf cart in town as long as you are doing it legally. To be considered legal, here are some of the rules within the ordinance: 1) Only a licensed driver cn operate a golf cart. 2) Golf carts must obey all traffic laws. 3) Riders must all be seated, that means no standing on rear deck or anywhere on the cart. 4) If driving after dark, the golf cart must be equipped with lights and proper turn signals. SAFETY TIPS ON GOLF CARTING 1) Always drive responsibly; arm’s and legs should always remain in the vehicle and, if your cart is equipped with them, seat belts should always be fastened. 2) Only carry passengers that you have seats for. Do not try to squeeze in extra passengers. 3) Never drive recklessly or joy ride. Be courteous to other drivers and obey vehicle traffic laws and the rules of the road. 4) Never drive intoxicated or under the influence of any drug or narcotic. 5) Avoid distractions while operating your golf cart. No matter the size of the vehicle, it’s still an automobile. Remain attentive and avoid talking, texting, or reading while driving, reaching for objects, applying makeup or eating. 6) Never allow anyone to stand in the vehicle or on the platform located in the back of the vehicle and never put the vehicle in motion until all passengers are safely inside the vehicle and buckled in. 7) Always use hand signals to indicate upcoming turns as well as your turn signals. Turn signals may be small or go unnoticed by vehicles behind you so it’s always a good idea to use hand signals as well. 8) Always check blind spots before turning. When making a left hand turn, yield to the through traffic lane and merge into that lane before turning left. 9) Use caution while tuning and look behind your golf cart before backing up. 10) Avoid excessive speeds, sudden starts and stops, and avoid sharp turns at fast speeds. 11) Reduce speed depending on the driving conditions and driving environment. Reduce speed on hills and inclines or declines, blind corners, and yield to pedestrians. 12) Do not leave keys in golf cart while unattended and always make sure to set the parking brake. 13) Always yield to pedestrians. 14) Use extreme caution in inclement weather. Golf carts may be prone to lightning strikes. Avoid driving in inclement weather if you can. 15) The operator of a golf cart should be a licensed driver.

Many burglars will spend no more than 60 seconds attempting to break into a home. Make sure every external door has sturdy, well-installed deadbolt locks. Sliding glass doors offer easy access if not properly secured. You can secure them by installing commercially available locks or putting a broomstick or wooden dowel in the inside track to jam the door. Never hide house keys under the door mat or a rock that is near your door. Most burglars know that trick. Instead give an extra key to a trusted neighbor. When you move to a new house or apartment, have a competent locksmith rekey the locks. All outside doors to your home should be metal or solid wood. Install a peephole in all entry doors so you can see who is outside without opening the door. Don't use door chains; they break easily and don't keep intruders out. Prune back shrubbery and trees so that they don't obscure windows or doors. Install outdoor floodlights or motion-sensor lights to eliminate any areas where someone might hide. When you go out of town, give your house that " lived-in look " by putting a few of your light on timers. Also, stop your mail and newspaper delivery or have a trusted neighbor pick it up for you. Don't leave anything, such as ladders or tools, lying around that can be used to break into your home. If you are a female and you live alone, don't advertise it by putting " Miss Jane Doe " on your doorbell or mailbox. Just put the initial of your first name and your last name, " J. Doe. " Mark all of your valuables with your license number. Consider installing metal grills on windows, but make sure they are easily removed from the inside in case of fire or other emergency. Ask a trusted neighbor to watch your home while you are away. Write down and report to the police license numbers on vehicles used by suspicious persons in your neighborhood. Join a Neighborhood Watch Group. If one doesn't exist, start one with the help of your local law enforcement agency.

Everyone should safeguard all their account numbers so they won’t be a victim of identity theft. Identity theft happens when someone pretends to be you by using your personal information when applying for loans, credit cards, or leases. In some cases people may impersonate you when receiving traffic violations or other legal contact. The thief takes advantage of your good history or credit record, leaving behind bad credit or misdeeds in your name. Losses to consumer and institutions due to identity theft total $845 million in 1997, according to the U.S. Secret Service. HOW THE THIEF GETS YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION Stealing your SSN in your wallet, pilfering information such as bank statements and pre-approved credit card from your mailbox, posing as your employer, officer, or landlord to get your credit reports, going through the trash for credit card carbons, receipts, loan applications or watching at automated teller machines to capture your PIN. HOW TO MINIMIZE THE RISK Never carry your SSN in your wallet or diary or printed on checks. Guard your SSN closely, giving it out only to official authorities or businesses you trust. Some firms will accept another identifier if you ask. Be careful how you dispose of documents. Ideally, shred them. Exercise your right to stop your credit header being sold, which will also stop pre-approved offers of credit. Call the credit bureaus’ special toll free line (888) 567-8688. Don’t post personal information on the internet for example, on genealogical, college reunion, Face book, etc. Should you become a victim, see below for where to go for help. HERE ARE SOME TIPS: Obtain a copy of the fraudulent contract or application. This is the key document that proves the person who signed it isn’t you. Finding the company that issued it and the right person to talk to isn’t always easy. Try to get past the gatekeepers to someone in charge. Contact the credit bureaus that hold your credit report. Ask them to log the theft and remove the bad accounts from your report, giving as much proof as possible. You may meet difficulties, but by law, the bureau must correct any wrong information. Have a “fraud alert” put on your credit report. This should alert credit grantors to check a new application. Keep meticulous dated records of your attempts to clean the record letters, phone calls, and what were said. Never agree to pay any portion of the debt just to get debt collectors off your back. The balance will stay on your record. WHERE TO GO FOR HELP To report identify theft and get help on how to restore your credit: Contact the Federal Trade Commission, Consumer Response Center, 600 Pennsylvania AVE N.W., Washington, D.C. 20580, or call, toll free, and (877) 382-4357. www.consumer.gov/idtheft for on-line information. To report ID theft, get your credit record (free for fraud victims) and to have it corrected, contact all of these: Trans Union, Fraud Victim Assistance Department P.O. Box 6790 Fullerton, California 92384 (800) 680-7289 Equifax P.O. Box 740241 Atlanta, GA 30374-0241 (800) 525-6285 Experian P.O. Box 1017 Allen, TX 75013 (800) 301-7195 If you have been the victim of identity theft, contact your local Law Enforcement office. The information in this section is intended to provide resources for the community on matters pertaining to Internet or computer crimes. We encourage you to visit these sites for on-line reporting, general reporting, general information, or crime prevention.

Many people may be living next door to a meth lab and not know it. Some of the signs that there is a meth lab in operation are obvious and easy to spot. In fact, you may have noticed them and not realized it. Here are some of the things to watch for: 1) Unusual strong odors (like cat urine, ether, ammonia, acetone or other chemicals). 2) Residences with windows blacked out. 3) Renters who pay their landlords in cash (most drug dealers deal exclusively in cash). 4) Large amounts of traffic - people coming and going at unusual hours. There may be little traffic during the day and large amounts at night. 5) Excessive trash, including large quantities of: antifreeze containers, lantern fuel cans, red chemically stained coffee filters, drain cleaner containers and duct tape. 6) Unusual quantities of clear glass containers being brought into the home. 7) Presence of the following items could also indicate the presence of a meth lab: Alcohol, Ether, Benzene, Toluene/Paint Thinner, Freon, Acetone, Chloroform, Camp Stove/Coleman Fuel, Starting Fluid, Anhydrous Ammonia, "Heet", White Gasoline, Phenyl-2-Propane, Phenylacetone, Phenylpropanolamine, Iodine Crystals, Red Phosphorus, Black Iodine, Lye (Red Devil Type), Drano, Muriatic/Hydrochloric Acid, Battery/Sulphuric Acid, Epsom Salts, Lithium Batteries, Sodium Metal, Wooden Matches, Propane Cylinders, Hot Plates, Ephedrine (over the counter), Cold Tablets, Bronchodialators, Energy Boosters, Rock Salt and Diet Aids. Obviously the presence of any of these items is not an automatic indicator of the presence of a meth lab. However, combinations of these items or large quantities of these items may be a sign. If you suspect a meth lab in your neighborhood, call your local County Sheriff's Office or Police Agency.

While driving, lock your doors and roll up your windows. Park in a well-lit area and keep all valuables out of sight and in the trunk. While walking, avoid isolated areas. Walk confidently and with another person if possible. Don't carry a lot of cash and avoid wearing anything that would attract unwanted attention like furs or jewelry. When answering the door, never let in a stranger for any reason. Always ask service people for identification before letting them in your house. You may want to contact the company to verify their identity. Never, ever pick up hitchhikers. Beware of a stranger who approaches you with a " great " business opportunity. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Never leave your keys in your car, for any reason. Never leave your car doors unlocked. If possible, choose a parking lot with an attendant. Remove any identification from your personal key ring. Be aware of your surroundings - know who's out there and what's going on. Trust your instincts. If a situation or place makes your feel uncomfortable or uneasy, leave.

A tornado is a narrow, violently rotating column of air that extends from the base of a thunderstorm to the ground. Because wind is invisible, it is hard to see a tornado unless it forms a condensation funnel made up of water droplets, dust and debris. Tornadoes are the most violent of all atmospheric storms. If a warning is issued: 1) In a home or building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such as a basement. 2) If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture. 3) Stay away from WINDOWS 4) Get out of automobiles 5) Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead, leave it immediately. 6) Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes and should be abandoned. Sometimes tornadoes develop so rapidly, there is little advance warning. Be alert to signs of an approaching tornado such as loud roar and blowing debris. Who is most at risk? 1) People in automobiles 2) The elderly, very young children, physically and mentally impaired After a tornado passes 1) Watch out for fallen power lines and stay out of damaged areas 2) Listen to the radio for information and instructions 3) Use a flashlight to inspect for damage in your home 4) Do not use candles at any time because of possible gas leaks Tornado Myths MYTH: Areas near rivers, lakes and mountains are safe from tornadoes FACT: No place is safe from tornadoes. In the late 1980's, a tornado swept Yellowstone National Park leaving a path of destruction up and down a 10,000-ft. mountain. MYTH: The low pressure with a tornado causes buildings to "explode" as the tornado passes overhead. FACT: Violent winds and debris slamming into buildings cause most structural damage. MYTH: Windows should be opened before tornado approaches to equalize pressure and minimize damage. FACT: Opening windows allows damaging winds to enter the structure. Leave the windows alone; instead, immediately go to a safe place. A Tornado WATCH is issued by the NOAA Storm Prediction Center meteorologists who watch the weather 24/7 across the entire U.S. for weather conditions that are favorable for tornadoes. A watch can cover parts of a state or several states. Watch and prepare for severe weather and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio to know when warnings are issued. A Tornado WARNING is issued by your local NOAA National Weather Service Forecast Office meteorologists who watch the weather 24/7 over a designated area. This means a tornado has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar and there is a serious threat to life and property to those in the path of the tornado. ACT now to find safe shelter! A warning can cover parts of counties or several counties in the path of danger.

Timely preparation, including structural and non-structural mitigation measures to avoid the impacts of severe winter weather, can avert heavy personal, business and government expenditures. Experts agree that the following measures can be effective in dealing with the challenges of severe weather. BEFORE SEVERE WEATHER ARRIVES 1) Store drinking water, first aid kit, canned/no-cook food, non-electric can opener, radio, flashlight and extra batteries where you can get them easily, even in the dark. 2) Keep cars and other vehicles fueled and in good repair, with a winter emergency kit in each. 3) Get a NOAA Weather Radio to monitor severe weather. 4) Know how the public is warned (siren, radio, TV, etc.) and the warning terms for each kind of disaster in your community; e.g. 5) “winter storm watch” --- Be alert, a storm is likely 6) “winter storm warning” --- Take action, the storm is in or entering the area 7) “blizzard warning” --- Snow and strong winds combined will produce blinding snow, near zero visibility, deep drifts, and life-threatening wind chill --- seek refuge immediately! 8) “winter weather advisory” --- Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous, especially to motorists 9) “frost/freeze warning” --- Below freezing temperatures are expected and may cause damage to plants, crops, or fruit trees 10) “flash flood or flood watch” --- Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment’s notice 11) “flash flood warning” --- A flash flood is imminent – act quickly to save yourself because you may have only seconds 12) “flood warning” --- Flooding has been reported or is imminent – take necessary precautions at once 13) Know safe routes from home, work and school to high ground. 14) Know how to contact other household members through a common out-of-state contact in the event you have to evacuate and become separated. 15) Know how to turn off gas, electric and water before evacuating. 16) Know ahead of time what you should do to help elderly or disabled, friends, neighbors or employees 17) Keep plywood, plastic sheeting, lumber, sandbags, and hand tools on hand and accessible. 18) Winterize your house, barn, shed, and any other structure that may provide shelter for you and your family, neighbors, livestock or equipment. Install storm shutters, doors, windows; clear rain gutters; repair roof leaks; and check the structural ability of the roof to sustain unusually heavy weight from the accumulation of snow – or water, if drains on flat roofs do not work. 19) If you think you might want to volunteer in case of a disaster, now is the time to let voluntary organizations or the emergency services office know --- beforehand. DURING ANY STORM OR EMERGENCY 1) Monitor you NOAA Weather Radio or keep a local radio and/or TV station on for information and emergency instructions. 2) Have your emergency survival kit ready to if told to evacuate. 3) If you go outside for any reason, dress for the season and expected conditions: 4) For cold weather, wear several layers of loose-fitting, light-weight; warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water-repellent. Mittens are warmer than gloves. Were a hat and cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs from extremely cold air. Wear sturdy, waterproof boots in snow or flooding conditions. 5) If advised to evacuate, tell others where you are going, turn off utilities if told to, then leave immediately, following routes designated by local officials. DURING A FLOOD 1) Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding. 2) Do not try to walk across running water more than 6 inches deep; even 6 inches of rapidly running water can sweep you off your feet. 3) Do not drive into flooded areas. If your car stalls, abandon it immediately – if you can – and seek higher ground. DURING A WINTER STORM 1) Conserve fuel, if necessary, by keeping your house cooler than normal. Temporarily shut off heat to less-used rooms. 2) If using kerosene heaters, maintain ventilation to avoid build-up of toxic fumes. Keep heaters at least three feet from flammable objects. Refuel kerosene heaters outside. 3) Avoid travel if possible. If you must ravel, do so during daylight. Don’t travel alone. Stay on main roads, and keep others informed of your schedule. IF A BLIZZARD TRAPS YOU IN YOUR CAR 1) Pull off the road, set hazard lights to flashing, and hang a distress flag from the radio aerial or window. Remain in your vehicle; rescuers are most likely to find you there. 2) Conserve fuel, but run the engine and heater about ten minutes each hour to keep warm, cracking a downward window slightly to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Exercise to maintain body heat but don’t overexert. Huddle with other passengers and use your coat for a blanket. 3) In extreme cold use roadmaps, seat covers, floor mats, newspapers or extra clothing for covering—anything to provide addition insulation and warmth. 4) Turn on the inside dome light so rescue teams can see you at night, but be careful 5) not to run the battery down. In remote areas spread a large cloth over the snow to attract the attention of rescue planes. 6) Do not set out on foot unless you see a building close by where you know you can take shelter. 7) Once the blizzard is over, you may need to leave the car and proceed on foot. Follow the road if possible. If you need to walk across open country, use distance points as landmarks to help maintain your sense of direction. AFTER THE STORM 1) Report downed power lines and broken gas lines immediately. 2) After blizzards, heavy snow or extreme cold, check to see that no physical damage has occurred and that water pipes are functioning. If there are no other problems, wait for streets and roads to be opened before you attempt to drive anywhere. 3) Check on neighbors, especially any who might need help. 4) Beware of overexertion and exhaustion. Shoveling snow in extreme cold causes many heart attacks. Set your priorities and pace yourself after any disaster that leaves you with a mess to clean up. The natural tendency is to do too much too soon. RETURNING TO YOUR HOME AFTER A FLOOD 1) Do not turn electricity back on if you smell gas or if the electric system has been flooded. 2) Wear sturdy work boots and gloves. 3) Do not handle electric equipment in wet areas. 4) Use flashlights, not lanterns, candles, or matches, to check buildings containing natural gas, propane, or gasoline. 5) Follow directions from local officials regarding the safety of drinking water. 6) Clean and disinfect everything that was touched by flood waters and throw out any such foodstuffs. 7) If you want to help other victims, give cash donations to the appropriate relief agencies to buy what the victims need. Donated goods such as used clothing, unlabeled and unsorted by size, is usually more of a logistical problem than a help. If particular items are needed. If particular items are needed, there will be public announcements and instructions concerning these. 8) Don’t go to the disaster scene on your own to volunteer. If you are already a volunteer, you will know where you are to report. If additional volunteers are needed for labor-intensive work like sandbagging, public announcements will be made. The leading causes of death during winter storms are transportation accidents. Preparing your vehicle for the winter season and knowing how to react if stranded or lost on the road are keys to safe winter driving. BEFORE, have a mechanic check the following items on your car. 1) Battery 2) Antifreeze 3) Wipers and windshield washer fluid 4) Ignition system 5) Thermostat 6) Lights 7) Flashing hazard lights 8) Exhaust system 9) Heater 10) Brakes 11) Defroster 12) Oil level (if necessary, replacing existing oil with a winter grade oil or SAE 10w/30 weight variety) INSTALL GOOD WINTER TIRES Make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. Keep a windshield scraper and small broom for ice and snow removal. Maintain at least a half a tank of gas during the winter season. Plan long trips carefully. Listen to the radio or call the State Police for the latest report of road and weather conditions. Always travel during daylight and, if possible, take at least one other person. If you must go out during a winter storm, use public transportation. Dress warmly. Wear layers of loose-fitting clothing, layered, lightweight clothing. Carry food and water. Store a supply of high energy “munchies” and several bottles of water. Contact your local emergency management office or American Red Cross chapter for more information on winter driving.