SAFEGUARDING YOUR IPODS, CELL PHONES AND YOURSELF

The new school year has opened and here are just a few tips regarding the ongoing problem we have seen regarding the theft and robberies of I- Pods and cell phones. This crime has been on the rise and is becoming a growing concern.
Here are a few safety tips in safeguarding your property and more importantly yourself:
· When walking try not to have your earphones in. This is a hazard walking across the street since car horns and sirens cannot be heard. This is also an obvious sign that you are in possession of an electronic device. This makes you more vulnerable as a target since you cannot hear someone approaching.
· While talking or texting on your cell phone in public, try to keep conversations short, for this again shows you’re in possession of one and again makes you vulnerable as a target to anyone approaching. Most cell phones are priced well over 100 dollars and can easily be converted for someone else’s use making them untraceable.
· Most of these crimes are done by large groups and not one on one. So be aware of large groups. Put your I Pod or cell phone away when being approached or walking by large groups because you are advertising.
· If you are a victim please notify 911, state your location and pertinent information i.e. race, age, what they were wearing, their direction of travel, type of phone stolen.
· If physical force is used this is considered a robbery which is a felony. Please do not put yourself in a bad position, be alert, be vigilante and try to get whatever description you can.

If you would like a representative from the 5th Precinct Police Department to speak to your group or organization please call us at 573- 6570 and any POP officer would be able to assist you.

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Safety Tips for Safeguarding Your Home

1 Install and maintain the timers on lights
2 Make sure all exterior lights are functioning properly
3 No mail or flyers left out
4 Let a neighbor you trust know your away and where you are in case they need to contact you
5 Safeguard all jewelry and cash
6 Make sure all first floor window air conditioners are secured because this allows easy access for burglars to get into your home
7 Make sure all house alarms are functioning properly
8 Make sure all windows and doors are secure
9 Trim all bushes and hedges around windows and doors because these make easy hiding spots for burglars
10 Be careful of routines.

Anything suspicious call 911 and not your local precinct so their response can be faster! When in doubt do not be afraid to call 911!!
Speak clearly and slowly so the proper information gets out. Don’t rush the phone call because all information is important.
Try to get any information possible i.e. vehicle plate numbers, physical descriptions such as clothing, height, race, weight, gender, direction of travel, what they might have in their possession i.e. backpack, gym bag.
You are the eyes and ears of the community. So please call regarding anything suspicious or unusual. This is our community so please be vigilante and again do not be afraid to call 911 for suspicious and unusual activity.