Full Notification

With the holidays closely approaching, property thefts become a concern. We all have to be on the alert and committed to keeping our communities safe.  Below are some helpful tips to prevent you from becoming an easy target.　

Report Suspicious Activity
Be a good neighbor. If you see something out of place or see someone who looks suspicious or engaged in criminal activity, call the Sheriff’s Station immediately and report your observations.　Package thieves and burglars will try to blend into the neighborhood looking for opportunities to commit their crimes. Intel from crime reports have shown a common method of operation for knock-knock burglars exists.　 Males and females suspects pose as solicitors and/or repair and maintenance workers. When confronted they will tell residents they are looking for a friend. Pay attention to any unfamiliar vehicles parked with the engine running. Lookouts will often be standing or sitting with no purpose for being in the area. Many will be talking with other suspects they are working with on cell phones. If you see something, say something.  Report this activity immediately.

Secure Your Home Outside
Take measures to harden your homes and vehicles.  Use the proper security devices to secure your doors and windows both upstairs and downstairs. Avoid posting on social media that you will be away from home for an extended period of time.  Keep windows and doors locked as well as fences, gates, and garage doors. Keep bushes and shrubs trimmed down to eliminate hiding spots.　

Create the Illusion of Someone Being Home
Thieves are looking for easy targets; and what is easier than an unoccupied home. Install smart-video doorbells to speak with persons at doors to give the illusion you are home. Have a timer on your lights to create the illusion of someone being home at night. You can also leave a television or radio on to create noise as if someone is home. Keep a car parked in your driveway. If you have large amounts of cash or high valuable property in your homes, secure valuables in a safe and ensure the safe is bolted to the floor.  Take steps to secure these items where they cannot be found in your home.

Make Your Presence Known
If you hear a knock on the door, make your presence known.  Keep your phone nearby and ready to call the police if need be.  If you come in contact with an intruders do not confront them. Call the police immediately by dialing 911.  State your location immediately. Iphones and Android cell phones have a SOS system that will call 911 with a press of a button.  You can learn about this feature at the following link:　

https://www.click2houston.com/news/how-to-use-powerful-emergency-features-on-your-smartphone

https://support.apple.com/en-au/HT208076

Have a plan and stay prepared. Join or start a neighborhood watch group in your community.