Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information and uses it without your permission.

 Thieves might:

• Go through your trash can or dumpster, stealing bills with sensitive information.
• Work for businesses and steal information on the job.
• Misuse the name of a legitimate business and try to trick you into revealing information, either by phone or by email.
• Pretend to offer you a job, or rent an apartment and ask you for information to “qualify.”
• Steal your wallet, purse, backpack or mail in order to get credit cards or other items that show personal information.

 Signs of Identity Theft:

• Mistakes on your bank or credit card statements.
• Mistakes on the explanation of medical benefits from your health plan.
• Bills for items you did not purchase
• Calls from debt collectors
• An IRS notice that someone has used your Social Security Number
• Unwarranted collection notices on your credit report
• Being turned down for a loan or a job

 Protect Yourself by:

• Order all 3 credit reports once per year and read them carefully. To order, go to annualcreditreport.com or call 877-322-8228
• Read all the bank, credit card statements or health benefit explanations you receive – if there is a mistake contact the the business right away
• Shred all documents that show personal information before you throw them away.
• Do not use the same computer password for more than one account
• Use antivirus and firewall protection software on your computer
• If you shop online, make sure the website uses encryption – https at the beginning of a web address (“s” is for secure).

The A B C s of Heart Health – Part 1

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) nearly 600,000 people die each year from heart disease in the USA.  That is 1 in 4, making it the leading cause of death.

That is why it is important to know the symptoms of a heart attack, and how you can help prevent having one.  Some people show few or no symptoms of a heart attack.

1.  Chest discomfort – occurs in the center of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, and can come and go.  The feeling is like a fullness, squeezing, uncomfortable pressure or pain.

2.  Discomfort in other areas of the upper body – Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in the arms, neck, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

3.  Shortness of breath

4. Breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.

Save Money Everyday – At the Grocery Store

 It is always tough to stay on a budget at the grocery story – there are so many choices.  Here are some tips that may help you as you navigate the food aisles:

•  Make a list and buy ONLY the items you have written down.
• Buy only enough perishables that you and your family can eat in a reasonable amount of time.  When you throw out food, you throw out money.
• Stock up whenever possible.  Buy bulk on frequently used non-perishable items such as canned goods and paper products – especially when they are on sale.
• Look high and low.  Stores often put the most expensive items at eye level.
• Beware of the ends. Advertised items are often found at the ends of the aisles; however, they are placed alongside non-sale items.
• Use coupons with care.  Do not use coupons for items you would ordinarily never buy.  Also, ask if the store will double a coupon or accept competitor’s coupons – you may be pleasantly surprised at the answer.
• Check for sale prices.  Look at the store entrance for sale flyers.  Also, flyers come in the local newspaper, and you can find coupons online.

Your Home Security Audit  – Part 1 – the Exterior

 Most burglaries occur when no one is home.  The ultimate goal is to deter a burglar from targeting your home.  If someone does try to enter, then you deny entry or at least delay entry.  Delaying entry gives neighbors or police a change to detect the burglar.  The majority of burglars are caught because a neighbor noticed suspicious activity and called 911.

 Ask yourself these YES or NO questions to see if your home security is lacking:

 Exterior

• Do trees or shrubbery obscure your doors and windows?
• Does shrubbery obscure a place where an intruder could hide?
• Does your home’s appearance give the impression that no on is at home?
• Are storage sheds unlocked?
• Is the garage unlocked or open?
• Are there basement doors or windows that are easily unlocked or opened?
• Do you have a privacy fence?
• Are there any ground floor windows that are unlocked or have a broken pane of glass?
• Are there any unlocked second floor windows?
• Are there openings in your homes such as skylights?
• Are there entrances to your home unlit at night?
• Are there any other areas around your home that could provide concealment for an intruder?
• Are there cars or vehicles left outside unlocked or with keys in the ignition?
• Are vehicles parked in poorly lighted areas?

 Next time – the structure, interior, and contents…