Protecting Property: You work hard for your possessions; make sure they’re protected from possible robbers by following these tips. The first line of defense for your home is going to be your locks. Remember to lock all exterior doors and windows, and don’t hide spare keys in obvious places. Don’t advertise your items, keep them out of sight, meaning away from windows, or even storing them in a secure location like a safe. Further reduce chances of home burglaries by keeping entry points well illuminated. Avoid leaving packages at your front door by scheduling the delivery. These same tips are applicable for businesses. When out in public, never leave your items unattended, carry bags close to your body, and if you’re carrying a wallet on your person, try using your front pockets.

Community Safety: Neighbors helping neighbors makes our communities a more enjoyable and safe place to live. We recommend getting to know your neighbors, if possible, and helping elderly ones when you can. A good way to stay connected is by participating in community events. Maintaining these relationships can also be beneficial when you leave for vacation. Before you depart, ask a trusted neighbor to take out your trash bins and bring in your newspaper to give the appearance you are still home. Keeping your neighborhood clean can reduce your area’s chances of being targeted by criminals. Check communal areas, such as mailboxes to make sure they are secure and there is proper lighting. The biggest step we all can follow to fight crime is reporting anything unusual to law enforcement. We recommend programming the non-emergency number into your phone contact list for easy accessibility.

Digital Safety: We’re living in a digital world, where you’re more likely to use your wallet app than your actual wallet. While the way we complete transactions and communicate may look different, it’s important to remain vigilant. Use secure Wi-Fi, especially for banking or shopping. Keep your phone hidden and secure when not in use and avoid lending it to strangers. Set up protective barriers on all your devices, such as long, unique passcodes, multi-factor authentication, antivirus software, and firewalls. Additionally, never click on suspicious links or open attachments from unknown sources, as they may be phishing scams.

Crime prevention isn’t just for those who wear the badge. We all contribute to reducing crimes. Small habits can go towards making a big difference. PSO encourages you to review your safety practices and try implementing the tips above into your daily routine.