Crime Prevention Tips

CRIME PREVENTION TIPS

BURGLARY

Lock doors and windows - especially ground level access (day or night)
Keep garage doors closed and secure (day or night)
Lock your interior door to your home from the garage
Lighting - both exterior and interior (motion lights, timers)
Egress windows - keep locked and covered
Sliding glass doors - keep locked, but also use a patio bolt and/or a dowel rod or metal locking device in the track
Consider an alarm system - security company or window alarms that are available at hardware stores or home improvement stores (such as Lowe's, Home Depot or Menard's)
Replace any exterior hollow core doors with solid core doors
Consider double cylinder deadbolt locks on all exterior doors
Landscaping - should not be more than 2-3 ft high; trees, should not be any less than 7 ft off the ground - (think concealment)
Communicate with neighbors when out of town or away for a day or evening
If away for a weekend or extended length of time, request a "Vacation House Check" through the police department. (See options on right side of web page)
Organize a "Community Crime Eye" group in your area (neighborhood watch)
Do not keep personal valuables in your vehicle, such as your purse, wallet, iPod, laptop, money or cell phone
If your vehicle(s) are outside, keep them locked - consider access to your garage door opener
Contact the police department immediately to report any suspicious person(s), vehicle(s) or activity. YOU know your neighborhood better than anyone else.
DO NOT take matters into your own hands.
DO NOT open the door for strangers or invite strangers into your home.

Contact Officer Randy Peterson at 515-331-6804 or email for information or interest in organizing Community Crime Eye in your neighborhood.

HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS

When shopping:

Place purchases in the trunk
Do not carry too many packages
Use caution when setting packages down
Keep your purse closed / Do not leave in the cart
Make sure debit/credit cards are always returned to you
Watch statements for unauthorized purchases
Do not carry large amounts of cash

Door to Door:

Be conscious of those who may take advantage of your generosity
Do not let any stranger into your home
Inquire about organization, if unsure notify law enforcement

Holiday parties:

Carpool
Have a designated driver
Consider road conditions
Consider other drivers
If hosting, provide designated driver
If children are present, make sure do not have access to alcohol

Tips for your home:

Do not place presents/packages where they can be seen
Put away ladders and tools
Timer for lights, inside and out
Consider alarm and lighting
Do not advertise new "toys" by placing boxes outside
Let neighbors know when you are going to be away AND call your local police department for a "Vacation House Check"

Fire and Health Hazards:

Make sure your tree is well-watered
Do not leave cooking unattended
Look over your outside and inside holiday lights for damage
Do not leave lit candles unattended
Have your fireplaces, gas or natural, cleaned or serviced
Do not overload circuits/electrical cords
Be aware of children and pets - certain plants, mistletoe, holly berries are health risks

ON BEHALF OF THE URBANDALE POLICE DEPARTMENT, PLEASE HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON.