Tips for Homeowners

• Keep doors in your home closed and locked including your garage doors. An open door is an invitation. 
• Be a good neighbor and alert police to any unusual activity in your neighborhood.
• Plan for vacation by having your mail and newspapers stopped or having a neighbor pick them up. 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 to see 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.

Tips for Drivers

• Do not leave valuables or cash in your car. If you must leave items in the car, lock them in the trunk. If you have folding rear seats, make sure those are locked, too.
• Be alert for children playing in neighborhoods and residential areas. Young children may be more concerned about catching a ball that rolls into the street than watching for vehicles coming toward them.
• Drive safely and slowly around parks and playgrounds. More children are out playing during the summer.

Tips for Parents

• Provide a list of phone numbers of neighbors, family and friends that your child can call in an emergency. Make sure your child knows how to dial 911 and when it is appropriate to do so. 
• Know the route your child will take to and from a given location. Remind your child never to take a shortcut or deviate from the agreed-upon route.
• Establish rules for using the Internet. Children should have adult supervision when online. Make sure your child knows to never give out personal information on the Internet.
• Require your child to check in with a parent before leaving the house and when returning home. Teach your child that there is safety in numbers and that it is best to be with a group of friends when going places without an adult. 
• Provide a bike helmet and require your child to wear it, as well as brightly colored or reflective clothing.