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
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 places to rob or burglarize.
Apparent business transactions conducted from a vehicle,
especially around schools or parks and if juveniles are involved,
could mean drug sales.
People being forced into vehicles -- especially if they are
juveniles or females -- may mean a kidnapping. Record the license
plates and call police.
A stranger entering your neighbor’s house when it is unoccupied
may be a burglar.
Seemingly innocent
activities may be crimes in progress. Be a good neighbor, be
observant, and watch for unusual activity.
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.
A home window with a
small break in it may mean a burglary has occurred. Call police
immediately.
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 in plain view 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.
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