Crime prevention is a vital ingredient for any safe community. We cannot stop anyone from having the desire to commit a crime but we can take the opportunity away. The use of our instincts, knowledge, common sense, and awareness can make us and our homes a tough target. The following are guidelines to follow when you're out, in your car or at home. Please take a moment to read and think about ways you can work to prevent crime.

While You're Out -

• Stay alert. Keep your mind on your surroundings and who is coming into it.
• Walk purposefully. Stand tall and make eye contact with people around you.
• Trust your instincts! If you feel uncomfortable in a situation, LEAVE!!
• Carry your purse very close to you. Don't dangle it from your arms. Never leave your purse in a shopping cart.
• Don't carry any more cash than is necessary. Most stores now accept debit cards instead of cash.
• Avoid walking alone at night. Try to have a friend accompany you, even during the daytime.

In Your Car -

• Keep your gas tank full and your vehicle properly maintained to avoid breakdowns.
• Always lock your car doors, even when you're inside and keep your windows rolled up.
• Have your car key out and ready to use when you approach your car.
• Lock packages and other valuables in the trunk. Do not leave them on the back seat or on the floor of the car where potential thieves can see them.
• When you return to your car, always check the front and back seat before you get in.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
• Pay attention to who is around at stoplights and stop signs.
• Try to shop during the day. If you have to go at night, park in well-lit areas and as close to the door as possible. Use a valet service if available.
• If your car breaks down, pull over to the right as far as possible, raise the hood, and wait INSIDE the car for help. Move over to the passenger side, which makes it look like you are not alone. Do not get out of the car or unroll the window until the police arrive.

At Home -

• Always keep your doors and windows locked.
• Install steel doors, with steel frames, and deadbolts.
• Keep your home well lit at night, inside and out. Keep your curtains drawn at night. Always keep at least one light on an automatic timer.
• Install a peephole in your front door so you can see callers without opening the door.
• Ask for proper identification from delivery persons or utility workers. Don't be afraid of asking. If they are legitimate they won't mind.
• If a stranger asks to use your telephone, offer to place the call for them yourself. Never let a stranger into your home.
• Do not leave notes on your door when you are gone, and do not hide your keys under the mat or in other conspicuous places.
• Never give out information over the phone indicating you are alone or that you won't be home at a certain time.
• When you are gone for more than a day, make sure your home looks and sounds occupied. Use an automatic timer to turn on a radio or TV.

If You Are A Victim At Home -

• If you arrive at home and suspect a stranger may be inside, DON'T GO IN. Leave quietly and call 9-1-1.
• If you have been swindled or conned, report the crime to the police immediately. Con artists count on their victim's reluctance to admit they've been duped, but if you delay you help them get away. Remember, if you never report the crime, they are free to cheat others again and again and you have no chance of ever getting your money back.