ALD 7 Theft Prevention Tips

Monday December 7, 2015, 4:54 PM
LASD - Altadena Station, Los Angeles County Sheriff
Jim McDonnell, Sheriff



Community: Theft prevention tips to stop crimes of opportunity.


Theft Prevention
Burglary is a crime of opportunity that can be reduced through awareness and prevention. Whether you’re at home, in a car or walking, taking a few precautions will lower your risk of becoming a victim.
General Tips
• The majority of burglars are serial criminals who will continue their actions until arrested. If you see someone or something suspicious, contact Altadena Sheriff's Station immediately.
• Keep expensive items out of sight. Avoid showing your wallet or wearing expensive jewelry when you know you’ll be out walking. Don’t leave your phone or purse on the seat of your car.
At Home
• Lock your doors and windows, even when you’re at home.
• If you notice someone loitering outside your residence and it seems suspicious, report them to Altadena Sheriff's Station immediately.
• Buy renter’s insurance. If you’re living in an apartment, you should insure your property. Renters insurance is affordable and much less expensive than paying to replace your property out of pocket.
In Your Car
• Don’t leave anything valuable in your car. Take everything with you, even if you’re just leaving your car for a few minutes. If you must leave something of value in your vehicle, lock it in the trunk (and make sure no one’s watching as you do so!).
• Keep your car organized and free of clutter. You may know that duffel bag just contains gym clothes, but a robber only sees an overstuffed bag sitting on your back seat. The messier your car is, the more tempting it looks.
• When ever possible, park in secure lots, or in your garage. If you must park on the street, park in a well lit, high traffic area.
On Foot
• Find a buddy. Whenever possible, don’t walk alone. The larger the group, the less chance you’ll be targeted.
• When walking alone, skip using headphones or taking phone calls. Robbers often target people they notice are distracted or unaware of their surroundings.
• Stay aware of your surroundings. Take note of where you are and who’s around. Look behind you. Trust your instincts–if your route seems unsafe, don’t take it.
• Avoid unlit or deserted areas. They make you uncomfortable for a reason. Even if that alley is your favorite shortcut in daylight, at night opt for the long way home where there are streetlights and other people.
Bikes
• Always lock your bike to a secure rack. Bike racks are designed to prevent bicycle theft. Telephone poles are not. If there’s no room at a bike rack, find another one nearby.
• Invest in a U-bolt lock. Bicycles secured with chain or cable locks are easier targets.
• Don’t leave your bike in isolated areas. The more people around, the less likely you’re bike will be stolen. Keep in mind that an busy area during the day may not be at night. If you plan to leave your bike overnight, make sure you pick a secure and highly visible location.

For full details, view this message on the web.






Sent by LASD - Altadena Station, Los Angeles County Sheriff
780 East Altadena Drive, Altadena, CA 91001
To manage your email settings, click here. To update your account settings, login here.
If you prefer not to receive future emails, unsubscribe here.

Powered by . © 2015 Nixle, LLC. All rights reserved.