How to Prevent Thefts

Are thefts from cars or homes increasing in your neighborhood or city? Have you noticed an increase in car vandalism or petty thefts? Incidents of petty theft and vandalism is on the rise in my local area, and it is always a concern when times are tough. Just follow these few precautions to insure your safety.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
   Car Theft

   LOCK YOUR CAR. If you are leaving your car for even a few moments, be sure to lock it. Do not leave valuables where they can be easily seen. Hide or lock up purses, packages, GPS, CD holders or mounds of change. This can be too tempting to someone walking by. Do not leave valuables in an open truck.

2. KEEP GARAGE DOOR CLOSED. Practice always closing the garage door when you enter the house. Only keep it open if you are working in it. Do not leave the garage door wide open for anyone.

3. LOOK AT YOUR FRONT AND BACK DOORS FROM A THEIVES' POINT OF VIEW. Are the locks sturdy. Do you have a dead bolt. Can one easily break a window to get in?

4. TRIM BUSHES, TREES AND ANY OTHER OBSTRUCTIONS TO GROUND LEVEL WINDOWS. Bushes and trees should not cover windows and doors. This is a fire and safety issue also. This way the thief has less space to hide.

5. IF YOU ARE GONE FOR ANY LENGTH OF TIME, LET A FRIEND OR RELATIVE PICK UP MAIL AND PAPERS. Paper and mail build up is an invitation for burglary. Think about getting a timer to have lights come on at night inside the house.

Tips & Warnings

• Commonsense ideas go a long way to deter theft and vandalism.
• Be cautious and aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Contact police if you see anything suspicious.