Staying Safe at Home and in Your Neighborhood

Take a moment to refresh yourself on these tips to keep you and your loved ones safe in and around your home. If you have questions or want more information, reach out to us through one of our social media channels, by sending us a message, or calling our Community Preservation Unit at (209)831-6550.

Get To Know Your Neighbors

One of the best ways to prevent crime in your neighborhood is to get to know your neighbors. When you know the people who live around you, it’s easier to spot when something seems out of place.

Knowing your neighbors can create a sense of community and look out for each other. If you or your neighbors see something suspicious, you can alert your neighbors or call the police.

Keep Your Property Well Lit

Criminals are more likely to target homes that are dark or not well-lit. They can spend more time looking for easy ways into a home without being noticed. Ensure all of your property’s exterior lights are in working order.

Use Motion-Sensor Lights

Motion-sensor lights are a great way to deter criminals, as they will be immediately alerted if they try approaching your home. These lights can also help you see if someone is lurking outside and act as a warning signal to be on the lookout.

Keep Your Trees and Shrubs Trimmed

Overgrown shrubs and trees can provide criminals with hiding places. Keeping your landscaping trimmed and tidy can eliminate potential hiding spots and easy concealment for criminals.

Lock Your Doors and Windows

Even if you’re stepping out for a quick errand, it’s important to lock all doors and windows when you leave your home. Most burglaries are crimes of opportunity, so don’t allow criminals an easy option to break into your home.

Install a Security System

Installing a security system is an excellent way to deter criminals. Burglars are less likely to target homes that have security systems.

Security systems can also help to protect your home in the event of a fire or other emergency.

Many doorbell cameras and security systems now come with features like remote access and smartphone alerts, so you can always stay aware of what’s happening at your property even when you’re not there.

Keep Valuables Out of Sight

If you have valuables in your home, keeping them out of sight can eliminate the easy temptation for burglars to break in. If you have significant amounts of cash or expensive jewelry, consider storing them in a safe bolted to the floor or wall.

You should also put items such as bicycles, lawn equipment, and other valuables commonly left outside in a garage or storage building. Keeping these items out of sight could mean someone walking or driving by won’t be tempted to pick them up.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

You should always be mindful of your surroundings when you’re out and about in your neighborhood. Pay attention to people who seem out of place, loitering, or acting suspiciously. If you see something suspicious, don’t hesitate to call us so we can send an officer to the area.

Don’t Advertise When You’re Gone

If you’re going on vacation, don’t advertise it on social media or in any other way that would let criminals know that your home will be empty for an extended time.

Instead, please have a friend or neighbor collect your mail and take care of any other responsibilities while you’re away so that it doesn’t look like your home is unoccupied.

Having lights inside your home on a timer can also create the appearance of someone being home, even while you’re away.

Join or Start a Neighborhood Watch Program

Neighborhood watch programs are organized groups of citizens working with law enforcement to prevent crime in their communities. These programs typically involve regular meetings, patrols, and communication among members.