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Here are some easy ways to prevent thefts and other crimes to yourself
and your property...
Lock
Your Door!!!
Locking your door is the single best deterrent to the
would-be thief in your residence or business. Doors left unlocked
for just one minute are a great risk. It takes about eight
seconds to remove valuables from an unlocked home. Many rip-offs
occur while the occupant is on the same floor of an apartment building,
having left for one minute to visit a bathroom or neighbor. Many
of these crimes could have been prevented by locking doors. It is
also a good idea to lock valuables in a cabinet, closet or drawer with
a good security lock.
Keep
Your Keys!!!
Keys are an important way of keeping yourself and your
property safe. Here are a few tips about keeping your keys safe:
- Do not loan your keys to anyone; their carelessness
may lead to your loss.
- Do not ID a key-ring with your address; duplicates
can be used at a later date.
- Do not label keys indicating which door or lock they
fit. If necessary, color code the key with a sticker to remind
yourself what it goes to.
- Do not leave keys lying around or in unused clothing;
duplicates can be made.
- Keep keys immediately ready in hand when arriving at
car or residence.
- If your keys become lost or stolen, notify the Police
or issuing agent immediately.
Burglary
Prevention Tips:
- Be aware of the "wrong number" gimmick; it
is used to see if you are home.
- If you notice strangers anywhere, call the police to
check on them.
- Make your neighbor aware of your absence and don't
leave a note on your door announcing that you're not there.
- DEMAND ID from strangers before allowing them inside.
- Maintain an inventory of all valuables using serial
number, model and description.
- DO NOT ENTER a room or apartment if you think you have
been burglarized (open doors and windows that were not when you left
should be considered potential burglaries). Call the police IMMEDIATELY
from a safe place!!!
Other
Helpful Hints:
- When you report suspicious persons or incidents:
- Supply address of the incident.
- Give number of individuals who are involved.
- Describe what is happening.
- Obtain a description of suspects (approximate age,
height, weight, complexion, clothing)
- Notice if any weapons are involved.
- Stay on the phone while it is safe or until told
otherwise.
- When you park:
- Lock ignition and remove keys.
- Close and lock windows and doors.
- Keep all valuables out of sight; use the trunk
whenever possible.
- Choose a well-lit area to park at night.
- When returning to your vehicle, have your keys
ready and check interior before entering.
- When you drive:
- Do not pick up hitchhikers
- Keep doors locked; be alert at traffic stops.
- Do not lower windows for strangers; demand credentials.
- If stalled, ask for aid through a cracked window;
remain in your vehicle.
- Travel well-lit streets.
- When you walk:
- NEVER WALK ALONE, especially at night.
- Do not take shortcuts; travel well-lit busy routes.
- If you feel like you're being followed, change
directions and head for an area with lights and people.
- If you're in trouble, SCREAM!!! It's you're
number one defense.
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