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Understanding Identity Theft: How Scammers Target Different Age Groups
Identity theft continues to be one of the fastest-growing crimes in the United States, affecting millions of people each year. The local banks, law enforcement, and the Safe Communities Coalition of Fort Dodge and Webster County are raising awareness about how scammers gain access to personal information—and how those tactics can vary depending on your age group.

According to the FTC Consumer Sentinel Network, fraudsters use a range of contact methods to deceive victims, including phone calls, emails, text messages, and even social media. A closer look at the data shows clear differences between younger and older adults in how they are targeted:

Younger adults (ages 18–59) are most often contacted through social media (31%), followed by websites or apps (30%) and phone calls (10%).

Older adults (ages 60+) are more likely to be targeted through phone calls (24%), websites or apps (21%), and emails (11%).

These statistics highlight an important truth—scammers adapt their tactics based on who they’re targeting. Younger adults, who spend more time online, face higher risks through digital platforms and ads. Meanwhile, older adults tend to be more vulnerable to traditional methods such as phone calls or mailed correspondence.

How to Protect Yourself
To steal your identity, scammers first need access to your personal information. Staying informed and cautious is your best defense. Be skeptical of unsolicited calls, messages, or online requests for personal or financial details. Always verify the legitimacy of a company or agency before sharing sensitive information.

If you’re part of a community group or organization that would like to learn more about how to avoid identity theft, we are offering free education and resources. You can contact us at 515-573-3178 to schedule a presentation or training.

Building a Safer, Stronger Community
The Safe Communities Coalition is dedicated to improving safety awareness and promoting positive engagement between law enforcement and the community. By staying informed and learning how to recognize scams, we can protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our community.

Together, we can stop identity theft before it starts. ... See MoreSee Less

Protecting Our Community from Identity Theft
Identity theft can happen to anyone, and it takes many forms. Local banks, law-enforcement agencies and community partners have teamed up to shine a light on this important issue, providing the tools and resources our community needs to stay safe.

According to IDStrong.com, the most common types of fraud include:

Credit Card Fraud (30%)

Bank Fraud (20%)

Other Identity Theft (19%)

Employment or Tax-Related Fraud (10%)

Loan or Lease Fraud (8%)

Phone or Utilities Fraud (8%)

Government Documents or Benefits Fraud (5%)

These numbers show just how widespread the problem really is—and why education and prevention are critical.

What You Need to Know
Cybercrime and identity theft is a problem that can impact anyone. The goal is simple: to empower residents with the knowledge they need to protect themselves and their families.

If your organization, workplace, or community group would like to learn more about this topic, you can contact the Safe Communities Coalition at 515-573-3178.

Building a Safer, Stronger Community
The Safe Communities Coalition is dedicated to improving safety awareness and encouraging positive, productive engagement between law enforcement and the community. By learning how to protect ourselves against fraud, we can build a safer, stronger Webster County—together. ... See MoreSee Less

September is Suicide Prevention Month: 988 Saves Lives
Each September, Suicide Prevention Month reminds us of the importance of awareness, compassion, and action. One of the most powerful tools available in the fight against suicide is the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline—a simple, three-digit number that can connect someone in crisis with immediate help and support.

Why 988 Matters
Despite its life-saving potential, research shows that 3 in 4 Americans don’t know what the 988 hotline is. This lack of awareness is concerning, especially when we look at how effective the hotline has been:

988 receives nearly 600,000 contacts per month.

98% of callers in crisis reported that their situation was de-escalated during the call.

88% of callers said the call prevented them from harming themselves.

These numbers are more than statistics—they represent lives saved, families supported, and communities strengthened.

What 988 Provides
When someone calls or texts 988, they are connected with trained crisis counselors who can:

Listen with compassion and without judgment.

Provide immediate support and coping strategies.

Connect callers to local mental health services and resources.

Local Support is Here
For Iowa residents, additional support is available through Your Life Iowa:

Call: 855-581-8111

Text: 855-895-8398

This local resource works hand-in-hand with national hotlines to ensure that no one has to face a mental health crisis alone.

How You Can Help
Awareness saves lives. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:

Learn the number. Program 988 into your phone.

Share it. Make sure your friends, family, and coworkers know about it.

Talk openly. Breaking the stigma around suicide and mental health is one of the most powerful forms of prevention.

Remember
If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. Help is only three digits away: 988. Together, we can spread the word, increase awareness, and save lives. ... See MoreSee Less

September is Suicide Prevention Month: What to do if you See the Warning Signs
Every September, communities across the nation observe Suicide Prevention Month—a time to shed light on a topic that is often kept in the shadows. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, yet it is also one of the most preventable. By learning the warning signs and how to respond, we can each play an important role in saving lives.

Why Suicide Prevention Matters
According to the CDC, nearly 50,000 people die by suicide each year in the U.S.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10–34.

In Iowa, more than 500 lives are lost to suicide annually, and countless more are impacted by attempts or thoughts of suicide.

These numbers remind us that suicide affects families, schools, workplaces, and entire communities. But prevention is possible, and you don’t need to be a professional to help.

Recognizing the Warning Signs
Suicide rarely happens without warning. Some of the common signs include:

Talking about wanting to die or feeling hopeless.

Withdrawing from family, friends, or usual activities.

Sudden mood swings, rage, or increased use of alcohol or drugs.

Giving away possessions or saying goodbye.

If you notice these changes in someone you care about, don’t ignore them—take action.

The Five Action Steps Everyone Should Know
The Safe Communities Coalition highlights five steps anyone can take when they’re worried about someone:

Ask
Start with a simple, direct question: “Are you thinking about suicide?” Research shows that asking doesn’t put the idea in someone’s head—it opens the door to honesty and hope. Never promise to keep their thoughts a secret. Encourage them to tell family members and seek help from the people closest to them.

Be There
Offer your time and attention. Listen without judgment, and remind them they are not alone.

Help Keep Them Safe
If someone is in crisis, help them avoid access to dangerous means (such as firearms or medications) until they are in a safer place.

Help Them Connect
Encourage professional support, whether that’s a counselor, doctor, or crisis hotline. Knowing where to turn can make the path to recovery less overwhelming.

Follow Up
A call, text, or visit after the crisis can show ongoing care and reduce feelings of isolation.

Resources for Immediate Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please know that help is available 24/7:

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988

Your Life Iowa: Call 855-581-8111 or Text 855-895-8398

Together, We Can Save Lives
Suicide prevention begins with awareness, compassion, and connection. By learning the warning signs and practicing these five steps, you may be the lifeline someone desperately needs. This September—and every month—let’s commit to having the tough conversations, reaching out to one another, and building communities where no one feels alone in their struggle. ... See MoreSee Less

September is Suicide Prevention Month: Knowledge Can Save Lives
Every September, communities across the nation come together to recognize Suicide Prevention Month—a time dedicated to raising awareness, breaking the stigma, and sharing life-saving resources.

Sadly, suicide impacts far too many families. Studies show that nearly half of the American adult population has been affected by suicide in some way—whether through personal struggles with severe depression and suicidal thoughts, or by knowing someone who has tragically died by suicide.

The Local Picture: Webster County
In Webster County, the impact is especially concerning. Over the past five years, deaths by suicide have steadily increased. Local data shows that more families are being touched by this heartbreaking issue more than ever before.

However, there is hope. In 2023, the nationwide Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988) was launched, making it easier for people in crisis to reach out for immediate help. Since its implementation, suicide rates across Iowa have started to decline—a sign that accessible resources truly save lives.

How You Can Help
Knowledge is one of the most powerful tools we have. By knowing the warning signs, talking openly about mental health, and sharing resources, each of us can play a role in preventing suicide.

If you or someone you love is struggling, please know that you are not alone and help is available:

Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7, free, and confidential).

Your Life Iowa: Call 855-581-8111 or Text 855-895-8398 for additional local support.

Working Together for Safer Communities
The Safe Communities Coalition of Fort Dodge & Webster County is committed to education, prevention, and support. By spreading awareness and connecting families with resources, we can build a stronger, safer community—one where no one has to suffer in silence.

This September, let’s remember: suicide prevention starts with knowledge, compassion, and the courage to reach out. ... See MoreSee Less

Back-to-School Essentials: Understanding the Difference Between Healthy Stress and Distress

As the school year kicks off, families are picking up pencils, notebooks, and backpacks—but don't forget the mental and emotional tools kids need to thrive. Stress isn't inherently negative—the trick is striking the right balance between healthy stress and overwhelming distress.

Understanding the Stress Curve

Your graphic illustrates how performance varies with stress:

Too little stress (underload)—leads to boredom, inactivity, and disengagement.

Optimal stress—energizes focus, motivation, and productivity.

Too much stress (overload)—can cause fatigue, anxiety, breakdowns, and burnout.

Stress by the Numbers: What the Data Shows
Daily Stress Among Students

45% of high school students say they feel stressed almost every day. Cross River Therapy

50% of middle school students and 75% of high school students report constant academic stress. Cross River Therapy

Among teens aged 13–17, 61% feel pressure to earn good grades. Cross River Therapy

Academic and Achievement Pressure

82% of teenagers experience stress tied to academic success. Gitnux

79% report stress related to standardized testing. Gitnux

74% feel pressure about college admissions, and 53% stress over maintaining a high GPA. Gitnux

Why These Figures Matter

With so many students living under constant strain—be it from grades, testing, college prep, or day-to-day demands—the graphic’s promotion of healthy stress is especially timely. Although a manageable level of stress can sharpen focus and drive, these statistics reveal just how quickly that balance can tip. However, with practice and the right coping skills, we're able to strengthen our emotional resiliency and tackle life's challenges head on, rather than giving in to our breaking point.

Helping Your Child Navigate Stress

Parents & Caregivers Can Help by:

Talking openly about stress. Let your child express worries about grades, friendships, or belonging.

Teaching coping strategies, like deep breathing, journaling, physical activity, or creative outlets.

Rebuilding routines before school starts, especially sleep and screen habits. New York Post

Monitoring screen time, aiming for under two hours a day outside of schoolwork. New York Post

Modeling balanced stress management—your own calm state helps them feel steady.

Beyond School Supplies

Back-to-school isn't just about gear—it’s about helping students build resilience, awareness, and the tools to manage stress effectively. By adding this mental toolkit to their backpack, we're setting children up not just for academic success but for lifelong well-being. ... See MoreSee Less

The 4th of July is synonymous with fireworks. Whether you are the kind of person who is packing up the family for a late night display of pyrotechnics and pretty colors or the person who would rather hunker down in your home and hope that your neighbor hasn’t bought out the nearest seasonal pop-up tent, there is no question that this part of the holiday celebration isn’t going away anytime soon. Unfortunately, neither are the injuries caused by them.

Since 2008, the number of emergency room visits due to firework related injuries has increased every year. Between 2023 and 2024 alone there was a 52% increase in injuries. This isn’t surprising considering how much the laws have changed, making it legal to use and sell fireworks in more places and giving access to more consumers. While most of the severe injuries are caused by the larger airborne options, do not underestimate the risks posed even by the seemingly innocent classics. Sparkler injuries account for nearly 15% of firework related trips to the emergency room. Of that number, nearly all of those patients were under the age of 6. Burning at 2,000 degrees, sparklers can cause severe burns, chemical burns and hot foreign objects to the eye.

If you would rather enjoy the holiday festivities instead of spending the evening in the emergency room, here are some ideas to help keep you at the BBQ:

~Do not let young children handle fireworks
~Youth should be closely supervised when using fireworks: What young boy isn’t itching to get his hands on a bottle rocket? When allowing kids to use fireworks keep eyes on them at all times to ensure they are following the directions and being safe. Even the most responsible kids make mistakes or get caught up in the moment.
~Never re-light a dud: Just because it doesn’t do what it was supposed to doesn’t make it harmless, in fact quite the opposite, it makes it unpredictable.
~Keep a supply of water close to the fireworks: Especially with the kids of fireworks that move erratically, you never know what it could catch on fire. We also use a bucket of water to cool our used sparklers.
~Follow the instructions on the packaging: If it tells you place it on the ground, believe that that’s the safest place for it! If they tell you to stay back a certain distance, it’s because they know what it can do!
~Do not hold lit fireworks in your hand: Respect the fact that these are explosives. Many of the injuries are not only burns, but missing fingers.
~Keep pets indoors: Fireworks and pets can both be unpredictable at times, it’s best not to mix the two.
~Drink responsibly if using fireworks: Some things make great combinations, ketchup and hotdogs, chips and dip, sun and fun; excessive alcohol and pyrotechnics is not one of them.
~Never point or throw a firework towards people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials: Most of the injuries seen in the emergency room happen to bystanders. It’s so important to ensure the area around where the fireworks are lit is clear.

We want to wish you all a very happy, fun-filled, and safe 4th of July holiday from all of us that the Safe Communities Coalition! ... See MoreSee Less