Our summer weather continues. Despite our desire to keep our doors and windows open, we need to stay safe. Here are some reminders for preventing residential burglary, compliments of the Kent Police Department:
- Keep doors in your home closed and locked including your garage doors. An open door = invitation.
- Even if going around to the back of the house, close your garage door. It only takes a few minutes for someone to break in and take something.
- Use double locking devices on windows and sliding glass doors.
- Be a good neighbor and alert police to any unusual activity in your neighborhood. Call 9-1-1 immediately.
- Plan for vacation by having your mail and newspapers stopped or having a neighbor pick them up. It’s easy! Go online to https://holdmail.usps.com/holdmail/ or call 1-800-ASK-USPS® (1-800-275-8777).
- If you’re going on vacation, don’t post vacation pix to your social media accounts until after you return home. Vacant homes are an invitation to break in!
- When you’re away for the evening or on vacation, leave inside lights on timers to create the impression that your house is occupied. Be sure to set your alarm system. Have a lawn service or neighbor mow your lawn.
- Avoid home improvement scams and deception burglaries by taking a proactive approach. Be particularly alert to anyone in your neighborhood looking to perform home repair and asking to gain entry into your home. Ask for identification and let them know you are going to call and get verification from their company before allowing them inside. If they are legitimate, they won’t mind the wait.
- Also, be sure to roll up all car windows, lock doors and remove all valuables – especially if going to a park, lake etc. And please don’t leave your kids or pets in the car, even for a few minutes. The summer heat is brutal, especially inside a locked, closed car.
