SUMMER SAFETY TIPS: DON'T BECOME A VICTIM OF SUMMERTIME CRIME

The National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) and Alert ID are working together to provide important safety tips to make your summer safe and enjoyable.

“Summer is the perfect time for a family break, but criminals don’t take a summer break,” said NCPC CEO Ann M. Harkins, “You can avoid becoming a victim to lurking property predators by staying alert and following a few basic prevention measures.”

Household property crimes exhibit a pattern of seasonal fluctuations during summer months than any other seasons.

Home Safety Tips

· Be aware of what is happening in the neighborhood and make sure you talk to neighbors and participate in neighborhood groups to stay informed.

· Lock your doors, including the garage door. Unlocked doors are open invitations to intruders.

· Ask a trusted family member or neighbor to monitor mail or have it stopped at the post office.

· Put light on timers to give the impression that someone is in the home.

· Do not post on social media that you are leaving town.

Vacation Tips

· Lock your hotel room and do not give your room number to strangers.

· Plan your route, stay within well-traveled routes and walk in groups.

· Keep belongings secure. When dining in restaurants, do not hang your purse or backpack on the back of your chair.

Tips for Parents

· Be proactive. Make a schedule of time for meeting up when separating from the large groups.

· Check in often with teens or children who are left home alone for a period of time.

· Monitor internet and social media activities and establish relative guidelines for such use in the home as well as away from the home.

Car Safety Tips

· Always lock doors and roll up windows when you leave your car.

· Put your junk in the trunk rather leaving packages on seats to attract wandering eyes.

· Before you get into your car, check the backseat and around the car. Lock the doors once you are safely in the car.

Workplaces must accommodate safety for all employees including sanitation and social distancing. Many employees cannot work from home; therefore, employers should ensure safety in the workplace. Many businesses and organizations take a lead to downsize employees, make changes in company policies, space layout and any areas which contribute toward change int the overall cultural work values.

Since the entire world is in this era of pandemic caution, we should make necessary adjustments and still work within those changes to safely enjoy summer vacations.