I am a keeper of lists.
Some of the lists I have include:

• A daily to do list
• A bucket list of things I want to do before I die
• A grocery list
• A wish list of things I would like to buy, but can't right now
• A business goal list
• A packing list of things I need when we go out of town

I have several more lists, but one of the most important ones I keep is a safety list.
This list helps me reduce the risk of becoming a victim.
If you don't have your own safety checklist, here are some items you should consider: Your Home:

• Make sure the emergency contact list is updated and kept next to the home phone.
  This includes the number of the local law enforcement department.
  
• Are all the doors locked?
• Are all the windows locked?
• If you have home alarms, have they been properly set?
• Are your bushes and shrubbery regularly trimmed? This will make it hard for an invader to hide behind them.
  
• Is there a trusted person, preferably a neighbor, with a copy of the housekey (instead of leaving a key above the door or under a flowerpot)

Your Vehicles

• Have you checked the tire pressure? How about the fluid levels, including windshield wiper fluid?
• Do you lock your doors while driving and anytime you exit the car? This is important to do, even when you will only be away from the car for a few minutes.
  
• Are your car keys and house keys kept on separate key rings?
• Do you take precautions when parking, such as looking for well lit areas and paying attention to where you have parked?
• Do you check in and around your car before you get in?

Personal Safety

• Do you remain aware of your surroundings?
• Do you walk with purpose?
• Have you taken any type of self defense class?
• Do you keep some type of self defense device available and ready to use?If so, do you know how to use it and have you practiced with it?
• Do you avoid going out by yourself, especially at night?
• Do you let someone else know where you are going and when you can be expected back home?

Most of use make lists every day, even if they are not on paper.
Keeping a safety checklist may be one of the most important lists you make.
Staying safe and alive is what will allow you to be able to check off the items on all your other lists.
Stay Safe!