Criminals work while you play

Don’t be victimized while you enjoy the weather

Nice weather presents an opportunities for criminals…

Don’t make yourself an easy target. With a little planning and attention to detail, your time won’t be ruined. Here are some tips.

• Hire a responsible house sitter or use a trustworthy neighbor. And stay in touch with them frequently.
• While packing up your car for your road trip: Don’t leave your luggage or other car unattended. Try to be inconspicuous.
• Don’t use social media to broadcast that you’re leaving town.
• Install an alarm. Get one that is centrally monitored and/or lets you monitor and change settings from your smartphone.
• Install cameras that monitor the perimeter of your home.
• Put decals on windows to alert thieves that your property is monitored.
• Put your lights on a variable or random timer.
• Lock all doors and windows. Including the door from the garage into your home.
• Close your blinds.
• Stop mail and newspaper delivery.
• Have a neighbor watch for packages and hand bills left at your front door.
• Arrange to have someone mow your lawn if you’ll be gone for more than a week.
• Don’t leave trash cans at the curb on non-pickup days.

Working in the yard?

• Don’t leave your garage door open (or any door) while you’re in the back yard.
• Don’t rely on storm doors alone to keep intruders out.
• Don’t leave bikes, toys, or tools in the front yard when you’re in the back.
• Keep a very close eye on your children.
• Don’t get distracted when socializing with neighbors or while doing chores.