As temperatures increase over the summer and you spend more time outdoors and on vacation, opportunities for criminal activity in neighborhoods also increase.
Summer means a break from school and a chance to take a vacation - unfortunately, summer also provides opportunities for criminal activity in your neighborhoods. You can decrease the chance of becoming a victim this summer by following these tips:
-Install lighting, such as motion lights or dusk to dawn detector lights, on your home's exterior
-Trim shrubbery around your home to eliminate hiding places
-Do not leave bikes unattended. Lock your bikes, even if you are going to be away for only a few moments
-Be aware of your surroundings and those around you when you walk, jog, or bike
-Install a locking mailbox or ask a neighbor to pick up your mail when on vacation
-Get to know your neighbors! Let a trusted neighbor know if you are planning to travel this summer. Neighbors who know each other look out for each other.
Before you go on your next summer adventure, consider these tips:
*Do a Final Walk Through – Make sure all doors and windows are locked, disconnect appliances and turn off any unnecessary utilities and breakers.
*Set Your Security Alarm – If you alarm is monitored, update the monitoring company with a contact who can be reached in your absence in case of emergency.
*Simulate a Normal Routine – Put the lights on a timer; adjust the window shades. The less obvious your absence is, the better.
*Disconnect the Internet – Minimize the likelihood of someone hacking your identity through unmonitored computers and Wi-Fi. Be mindful though that some security systems and cameras require an internet connection so check before you disconnect.
*Don't Announce Your Absence – It's tempting to share all those fun-filled photos on social media immediately. Save the vacation pictures for when you return.
If your home has a security camera system installed, consider registering it with the Milpitas Police Department's Camera Registration program.
https://forms.ci.milpitas.ca.gov/cameraregistry/
By registering your cameras, we can quickly assess whether any cameras are near the vicinity of where crimes have occurred. Officers may then request to view resident's footage to identify suspects or additional leads. We will NOT have remote access to your system. Footage is provided to us solely at the camera owner's discretion.
And lastly, if you are going to be away for an extended period of time this summer consider using our Vacation House Check Program. The Vacation House Check Program does not guarantee that a burglary or other crime will not occur at the residence, and it is only intended to be a request for the officer to check the home periodically, based upon the availability of the officer or citizen volunteer.
Click here for additional information:
http://www.ci.milpitas.ca.gov/vacation-home-check-request/
Stay Safe and Have A Great Summer!
