Historical December 1985 report or notice. Original dates, prices and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
(Editor’s Note: The following column was written by Sgt. Charlie Metzner for the Operation SafeStreet newsletter.
It is information which cannot be repeated enough.) The holiday season is in full swing and with it comes an increase in crime.
There are precautions you can take to avoid becoming a victim during this active time of year.
When you are out shopping for presents, remember that if you leave packages in your car, lock them in your trunk. Do not leave them where they can be seen.
It is best to place them in your trunk before you get to your next destination so anyone watching will not see you place them there.
Most shopping areas are well patrolled during this season.
However, it makes for a happier season if we make it harder for a crime to occur. Do not make it easy for a thief to “rip you off.” Remember also to always lock your doors and windows at home, even if you are only going to be gone for a few minutes. Do not be easy on burglars; the harder they have to work to get into your home, the less they will try.
If you are preparing for a seasonal vacation, heed the following precautions to make your return as pleasant as the time away. —Tell a close neighbor of your plans and leave a key with that person. Ask the neighbor to remove handbills and literature left at your door and to alter window appearances and lighting arrangements from time to time. Let a neighbor know where you can be reached. Do not hide a key outside. —Stop deliveries of mail, newspaper, milk, etc. —Tell police about your departure and anticipated return. Let them know when you return. —Do not discuss your plans publicly or in a newspaper. Talk about your good time after you return. —Remove valuable articles from places where they can easily be seen through windows. —Use a clock-timer or similar device to turn lights on and off, giving a lived-in look to your home. —If a burglary is discovered while you are away, ask a neighbor to get in touch with you. —Give your home a security survey before you leave. Find weak areas and strengthen their security. Project Home Security is still available from Operation SafeStreet. Call the Skinker DeBaliviere Community Council at 862-5122 for more information and for forms.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, December 1985.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times1985_12.pdf, printed page(s) 4; PDF page(s) 4.
