Place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine. Do both sides of each license, credit card, etc., so you will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call to cancel. Keep the photocopy in a safe place. We've all heard horror stories about fraud that's committed using your name, address, SS#, credit, etc. To limit the damage in case this happens to you or someone you know. As everyone always advises, cancel your credit cards immediately, but the key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Keep those where you can find them easily. File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where it was stolen, this proves to credit providers you were diligent, and is a first step toward an investigation (if there ever is one). But here's what is perhaps most important: (I never ever thought to do this) - Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and SS#. The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit.

The numbers are:
Social Security Administration (fraud line): 1-800-269-0271
Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-3742
Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289

It is best to open our doors and permit our fears to enter so that they can be destroyed, otherwise, they will always remain outside placing us under siege.

One of the best ways of protecting yourself from attack is to avoid things that may provoke it. Stay out of unfamiliar areas, dress appropriately, avoid walking in unlit areas, and don't display valuables. Sometimes this however is unavoidable. Here are some steps that may be taken:

1. Take a self-defense class be it a paid one or free one offered by law enforcement.

2. Understand self defense equipment and its use. Pepper spray and stun guns are good products if used correctly. Although a set of keys or a kubaton may be a better choice both are hard to get away from you by your assailant. The kubaton is pointy object that won't pierce the skin but is small and handheld. It will inflict a lot of pain and deter an attack.

3. Another good choice is a personal alarm that you carry and can be set off. It produces a loud alarm to scare an attacker and alert others of your trouble. There also are models for you and your child that will alert you when your child gets out of range from you. These are usually adjustable for a 6 to 30 foot area. Especially helpful in store and mall settings.

4. Remember most cell phones have a speed dial setting for 911.

A lock on a flimsy door is about as effective as locking your car door but leaving the window down.
· All outside doors should be metal or solid wood.
· If your doors don't fit tightly in their frames, install weather stripping around them.
· Install a peephole or wide angle viewer in all entry doors so you can see who is outside without opening the door. Door chains break easily and don't keep out intruders.