CRIME PREVENTION TIPS
Here are some
tips you can use to reduce the chance that your
home or your neighbor’s home will be targeted by burglars:
.
Lock all doors
and windows at night and every time you leave home -
even if it’s
just for a few minutes.
. All doors need
a sturdy keyed entry lock and a deadbolt lock. Make
sure the frame
and strike plate are secured with screws at least 3
inches in length
. Check your
window locks to make sure they are working properly.
.
Check your
windows and screens regularly from the outside to make
sure they are
intact and have not been tampered with.
.
Give spare keys
to a trusted neighbor. Do not put them under a
doormat or
planter, or in the mailbox.
.
Use
outside lighting. This lighting is now available with
inexpensive
motion
detectors, which save electricity. Outside lighting should
illuminate entrances, windows and out buildings.
.
Don’t forget
interior lighting. Simply leaving a light on when you are
are out can be
effective. Use lights in different parts of your home to
avoid predictability.
.
Leaving a radio
or TV on when no one is home can also help.
.
Reinforce the
locks on sliding doors and windows by placing a bar
securely into
the track. These are available at home centers and are
often referred to as Charlie bars.
.
Trim any bushes
or shrubs that are near windows or doors. These can
allow hiding
places for criminals trying to break into your home.
. Lock or
securely store ladders or anything else that could be used
to
climb into a window or onto your roof.
.
Keep garage
doors closed and locked.
.
Have a trusted
neighbor watch your house when you’re gone for an
extended period. Ask the neighbor to take in your mail and
newspaper
daily, or stop
delivery on them.
.
Keep all sheds
secured with a strong lock.
.
Call 911 if you
see a suspicious person or vehicle in your
neighborhood.
.
Call the
Franklin police station community outreach office at
410- 887-6985
to set up an appointment for a free residential security
survey.