Police Tips

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.

Persons being forced into vehicles -- especially if they are juveniles or

females -- may mean a possible kidnapping. Record the license plates and

call police.

Place gravel outside windows where you’re concerned about prowlers. The

noise of someone stepping on it will serve to alert you.

A residential 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 peering into parked cars may be looking for a car to steal or for

valuables left displayed in the car.

The sound of breaking glass or other loud explosive noises could mean an

accident, housebreaking or vandalizing.

Nearly half of the burglaries committed are without force, that is,

through

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

or when working in your own back yard.

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

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

yourself, especially at night.

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

order,

Stay in well-lit areas as much as possible when walking at night. Avoid

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

facing traffic. Criminals look for someone who appears vulnerable.

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

direction or walk on the other side of the street.

Always lock car doors after entering or leaving your car. Don’t leave

valuables in plain view.

If you think you are being followed, drive to a public place or to a

police or sheriff’s station.

safety may depend upon your ability to stay cool and calm.

The No. 1 killer of teenagers, before they go to college, is

alcohol-related highway accidents.

Pay attention to your intuition and instinct. If something just ‘feels

wrong,’ it usually is.

Discuss safety plans with family, friends, neighbors, children and

baby-sitters.

Park away from vans or cars with someone ‘waiting around.’

If someone signals that something is wrong with your car, drive to the

nearest service station to check it. Do not stop and get out of your car.

Have a light on in the room where you are and have a light on in a room

where you are not. It gives the impression of more than one person being

at home.

Give your home a lived in look by arranging for pick up of papers and

mail in your absence.

Teach your children to answer with a simple ‘hello.’ Do not answer by

saying the name of the family.