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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.
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