Full Notification

Thankfully the number of reportable property crimes (burglaries, car break-ins, etc…) has been low as of late. Unfortunately as the weather gets nicer and more people get out to enjoy the great outdoors, more would be thieves also start to appear as well. For that reason the Department of Public Safety would like to take a moment and remind everyone to take caution when leaving your residence or vehicle unattended. A wise person once said, "It's better to be safe than sorry." When it comes to your safety and peace of mind, truer words were never spoken.

Let’s talk about your vehicle for just a moment. The same person who said it's better to be safe than sorry probably also coined the phrase "You can never be too careful." That said, you should keep your doors locked at all times. Whether you’re stopping off at one of the city’s parks for a quick jog, or “just running in” to one of the local stores in town, locking your doors is the first step to car safety. The majority of thieves will pass over a locked vehicle in favor of one that is not. The risk to payoff ratio is usually too great to be breaking windows in broad daylight, especially when the vehicle appears to have nothing inside of it. However leaving your Smartphone, iPod, GPS, or purse in plain view on the car seat is like taping a "steal me" sign to it. This will most definitely change that ratio to favor the thief. So if you must leave your valuables in your car, conceal them in the glove compartment, center console or trunk.

“The most important work you and I will ever do will be within the walls of our own homes.” (Harold B. Lee) For this reason protecting our homes is paramount. Making sure that your residence is secured before leaving or turning in for the night is the easiest way to lessen the chance of becoming a victim. This should always include making sure that your garage door is also closed. With spring well on its way many will opt for leaving their windows open. Most of the newer windows are constructed with ventilation latches. This is a safety feature that allows the window to only be opened a few inches for ventilation. This device should always be used when practical. The final step in removing opportunity from thieves is making sure any vehicle that is parked outside of your residence is properly secured. An unlocked vehicle with a garage door opener in it, can be equated to leaving a key out for the “bad guy”.

These are all examples of ways that you can lessen the chances of becoming the next victim. Studies have shown that each and every crime has the same three parts to them (ability, desire, and opportunity). And though we may not be able to change the ability or desire of the criminals, by taking a few simple steps we can certainly reduce the opportunity they would normally be afforded.