There were a variety of preventive measures, all aimed at keeping a corpse from rising in its grave. Some of these were done using folk remedies, other Christian remedies and finally people used common sense.

They were used alone, and in conjunction with other methods. Like vampire characteristics, the methods of choice depended on the people, region and dominant religion.

Remedy for attacks against children (Italy):

1. Gospel read over the child's head while his head rests on a priest's robe.
2. Cross of wax, blessed on Ascension Day (40th day after Easter), hung over the doorway of the house.
3. A linen bag containing a pinch of salt hung around the child's neck.
4. Child's hair is cut and a lock is thrown into the fire.
5. Hinges in the house are sprinkled with holy water.
6. Credo recited aloud 3 times.
7. Husband/ father watches for 7 nights for the witch/ vampire.