Tips
- Paying attention to your environment and taking precautions can help to reduce the opportunity for crime to occur:
- Keep all doors and windows locked, even if you are just going out “for a minute”
- If a window is left open a few inches for ventilation, it should be locked to prevent someone from opening it more
- Don’t leave keys in mailboxes or under doormats
- Know who is at your door before opening it
- Never let a stranger enter your home
- Be suspicious of people loitering
- Check photo identification for any service personnel
- Deter others from knowing your electronic purchases by breaking the original packaging in flat cardboard – never leave the empty box curbside
- Close curtains/blinds to shield items from view
- Don’t discuss your finances or possessions with strangers
- Keep property free of trash, litter, weeds, leaves, hazards and other things that indicate neglect in caring for your property
- Make sure repairs are completed in a timely manner
- Remove loose rocks and other objects that could be used to vandalize your property.
- If you return home and suspect someone has broken into your home, go to a safe location and call the police
- Purchase renter’s insurance to safeguard your possessions
- Make sure the house number is visible from the street so police and fire departments can see it in case of emergencies
- If you have a vehicle, check on it regularly and do not leave any items in plain view