Parked, occupied vehicles containing one or...

Parked, occupied vehicles containing one or more people are

especially significant if observed at an unusual hour. They could be

possible lookouts for a burglary in progress, even if the occupants

appear to be lovers.

Any vehicle moving slowly and without lights or following a

course that appears aimless or repetitive is suspicious. Occupants

may be casing for places to rob or burglarize.

Apparent business transactions conducted from a vehicle,

especially around schools or parks and if juveniles are involved,

could mean possible drug sales.

People being forced into vehicles -- especially if they are

juveniles or females -- may mean a possible kidnapping. Record the

license plates and call police.

An abandoned vehicle

parked on your block may be stolen. Contact parking control with a

license plate number.

Place gravel outside

windows where you’re concerned about prowlers. The noise of

someone stepping on it will serve to alert you.

Seemingly innocent

activities may be crimes in progress. Be a good neighbor, be

observant and watch for unusual activity.

A home window with a small break in it may mean a burglary has

occurred. Call police immediately.

A stranger entering your neighbor’s house when it is unoccupied

may be a burglar.

A scream heard anywhere may mean robbery or rape. Be observant and

notify police.

Anyone removing

accessories, license plates or gasoline from a car should be

reported.

Anyone peering into parked cars may be looking for a car to steal

or for valuables left displayed in the car.

People entering or leaving a business place after hours could be

burglars. Safely try to note any vehicles involved and call police.

The sound of breaking glass or other loud explosive noises could

mean an accident, housebreaking or vandalizing.

Persons loitering around schools, parks, secluded areas or in the

neighborhood could be sex offenders.

Nearly half of the burglaries committed are without force, that

is, through unlocked doors and windows.

Always lock your doors and windows even when leaving for ‘just a

minute’ or when working in your own back yard.

Whenever you move to a new home, have the locks changed.

If strangers telephone or come to your door, don’t admit you are

alone.

Don’t let any stranger into your home -- no matter what the reason

or how dire the emergency is

supposed to be. Make the emergency phone call while they wait

outside.

If you live in an apartment, avoid being in the laundry room or

garage by yourself, especially at night.

Install a peephole viewer in your door. Never open your door

without knowing who is on the other side. Also consider calling the

visitor’s business office to confirm the appointment.

Whenever possible, travel with a friend. Keep your car in good

working order,

especially before long trips, and the gas tank at least half full.

Stay in well-lighted areas as much as possible when walking at

night. Avoid walking alone or with your hands full.

Walk confidently, directly and at a steady pace on the side of the

street facing traffic. Criminals look for someone who appears

vulnerable.

Walk close to the curb. Avoid doorways, bushes and alleys where

attackers can hide.

If a car appears to be following you, turn and walk in the

opposite direction or walk on the other side of the street.