Home Security and Safety

Everyone wants to feel a sense of security where they live. By implementing crime prevention strategies, getting to know your neighbors, being vigilant, and reporting problems as they occur, you can make a significant contribution.

Basics

  • Use physical protection measures on your home by installing deadbolts on all doors, locking devices on windows, and a fence in the yard.
  • Install an alarm system.
  • Change locks if previous renter/owner lived there before you.
  • Follow strict security procedures in your home such as always locking your doors and windows when leaving even if it's just for a short time.
  • Recognize who belongs in your neighborhood and report suspicious activity to the police.
  • Consider getting a dog as a pet; they can be a great alarm when someone approaches the house and can even scare away strangers.
  • Provide visibility around the house such as leaving lights on outside after dark or having motion detector lights around your home.
  • ALWAYS lock your doors, even if you are home.
  • Do not tell people or post information on social media when you are away from your home.
  • Never hide a spare key under your doormat or on top of your door frame or mailbox.
  • Use your peep hole to identify visitors before opening door.
  • Don't leave valuables in plain view of windows.
  • Keep an inventory of your valuables. Especially write down serial numbers if any. If possible, take pictures of items in case they are ever stolen.

How To Make Your Home Appear Occupied

Burglars do not want to be caught so they tend to break into homes that are unoccupied when residents are out during the day or on vacation.

  • Have a trusted neighbor or family member get your mail and packages daily. Also, bring up garbage cans if out while you are gone.
  • Leave your TV or radio playing.
  • Use timers to turn on/off lights, radios, and/or TVs.

Get To Know Your Neighbors

  • Tell a trusted neighbor how long you will be gone for and how to get a hold of you in case of an emergency. Return the favor when needed.
  • Form a neighborhood watch which essentially is a program where neighbors look out for neighbors. Your neighbors know your schedules, cars you drive, etc. so they are the best set of eyes who will notice suspicious activity.
    • Call MLPD's Police Specialist Olivia Martinez to help get you started! 509-764-3914
    • or visit our Neighborhood Watch page for more information.