During the summer months would-be thieves are on the look-out for items which can be easily taken in moments. Unlocked doors, open windows, and open garage doors all provide a temptation to steal valuables — bikes, packages, cell phones, purses — left in plain view. Blooming trees and overgrown shrubs can provide would-be burglars with places to hide.
Here are a few tips to make your summer a safe one:
Home Safety Tips
- Install lighting, such as motion lights or dusk to dawn detector lights, on your home’s exterior.
- Trim shrubbery around your home to eliminate hiding places.
- Your address should be clearly visible from the street for emergency and identification
purposes. - Close and lock your garage door when you are not nearby. Place valuables stored in the
garage in a locking device not visible from the street when the garage door is open. - Do not leave bikes unattended. Lock your bikes, even if you are going to be away for only a few moments.
- If you sleep on the second floor of your home, keep all first-floor doors and windows closed and locked.
Vehicle Safety Tips
- Always lock your doors and roll up your windows when you leave your car. Make sure to take your keys with you.
- Do not leave valuables in the car. If you must leave possessions in your vehicle keep them out of sight or hidden in the trunk.
- Before you get into your car, check the backseat and around the car. Lock your doors once inside the car.
Vacation Tips
- If you are going out of town, you can notify the Police Department and set up a vacation house watch.
- Make sure your home is locked up and secure.
- Stop your mail or have family/friends retrieve it for you. Stop the paper if you have it delivered.
- Don’t order any packages that will be delivered while you are away.
- Set a light on a timer inside of your home to create the appearance of activity inside.
- Exterior motion sensor lighting can aide in deterring crime.
- Keep valuables away from public view through a window etc.
- Do not discuss vacation plans in public or on social media.