Crime Prevention Tips

Stop thefts from Vehicles

Don't be a victim of theft from your vehicle! Annually, there are 1.2 million thefts of contents and almost 1.3 million thefts of accessories from vehicles nationwide.

DON'T MAKE IT EASY FOR SOMEONE TO STEAL FROM YOU CAR.

Follow these simple tips:

· Try to park in well-lighted and busy areas. Avoid leaving your vehicle in unattended parking lots for long periods of time.

· Keep everything of value that you can in the trunk. If you must leave packages, clothing, or other articles in the car, make sure that they are out of sight.

· Lock you vehicle up, make sure that the windows are closed tight and the trunk locked.

· Mark all accessories such as radios, radar detectors and speakers with an identification number that is unique to you.

The Bethlehem Police Department recommends that you use an Operation ID number. We will loan you an engraver to mark these items. Serial numbers of all accessories should be recorded.

Discourage Burglars

When you're at home...

· Keep exterior doors locked.

· Never admit strangers under any pretext.

· Install a door viewer and have visitors identify themselves.

· Report any solicitor or salesman without proper credentials to the police.

· Keep valuables out of sight when not in use.

When you're out...The home with a "lived in" or "at home look is a deterrent to burglars. Follow these simple rules to keel) up appearances, even when you're leaving the house for just a short time.

· Lock all outside windows and doors, don't forget the bulkhead.

· At night, leave one or more lights on in locations not visible from windows.

· For extended absences, there are inexpensive plug-in timers that will turn lights on and off at times that imitate your living patterns.

· Leave a radio playing, preferably tuned to a talk show with the volume low.

· This will create the impression of conversation.

· Do not leave notes indicating your absence.

· Shut and lock the garage door.

· Do not leave extra keys outside, some burglars will look for them.

When you're on vacation... Other than a little planning ahead, vacation safety rules for home protection arc basically the same as everyday precautions. Add the following and enjoy a worry free trip.

· Have newspaper and other delivery services discontinued during your absence or have these items picked up by a trusted neighbor.

· Arrange for lawn care or snow removal.

· Have the Post Office hold or forward your mail or have it picked up daily by a trusted neighbor.

· Have someone check your home periodically to be sure that the light timer is working and to vary the lights and position of the drapes.

· Have a neighbor park their car in your yard don't publicize vacations ahead of time. Many thieves watch local papers for accounts of vacationers.