The police are trying to prevent as much as they possibly can but they cannot do it alone. It’s much easier and more economical to prevent a crime than it is to investigate and solve a crime.

•    If you are a year-round resident going on vacation, notify your local police department and they will do random checks during every shift.

•    Lock the doors and windows.

•    Keep the blinds closed.

•    Make the house look occupied with a radio and lights set on timers.

•    Park your car in the driveway if you’re out of town, or ask neighbors to park their cars on your driveway.

•    Trim bushes and avoid creating dark spots where the criminals can hide.

•    Put motion-sensor lights outside.

•    Take pictures of all valuable items, especially electronics, including model and serial numbers; email them to yourself.

•    Install a security alarm system. If you can’t afford a full alarm system, consider a partial security alarm with motion sensors. It will not notify the police, but it will scare the thieves away.

•    Consider placing signs in your yard stating, “Property under Camera Surveillance” or “Secured by ___ (security company name).”

•    Motion-sensor trail cameras are highly recommended for construction sites but they work for other locations. (Make sure there is enough memory space and charged batteries.)

•    Put up a “Beware of dog” sign whether you have a dog or not. (This works best for residential areas.)

•    Move TVs into locked closets if you will be away for an extended period of time.

•    Notify your rental company who is allowed to go in.

•    Talk to trusted neighbors and ask them to keep an eye on the house.

If, unfortunately, you return home to find you’ve been a victim of a burglary, “Secure the area; don’t touch anything and stay in a safe area,” advised Capt. Evans.

Author: CoastalLife