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Crime Prevention |
The Walpole Police Department enlists the help of two Crime Prevention Officers, who's goal is to help the community develop partnerships that will increase public awareness and help prevent crime, striving to build a safer, stronger community, through community programs.
Many crimes that occur in a small community, are ones that can be easily avoided by using smart, and simple crime prevention tricks. Officers Chris Mackenzie and Tom Connor have several tips for residents on how even the smallest crime prevention technique can be the difference in stopping crime in your neighborhood.
- Almost 50% of burglars enter homes or property through unlocked door or windows.
- Make sure your outside locks are of high quality, and use deadbolts.
- Locks on doors should be at least 40 inches away from windows and glass panels to prevent breaking a window and unlocking from the inside.
- Don't hide your key under your door mat, on a ledge, in the flower pot ect. Leave your key with a trusted neighbor.
- You should always keep ground floor windows locked when out, and preferably with strong keyed window locks. As well as security bars for your sliding glass doors.
- Over 80% of crimes involving vehicles, the car was either unlocked, had the keys inside, or both.
- Lock up even when you are in your driveway.
- Don't forget your windows and sunroofs.
- Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk or out of sight.
- Park in well lit areas.
- Lights are one of the biggest deterrents to a burglar. You should have lights inside and out on a timer.
- Have your mail, papers and deliveries either put on hold or have a trusted friend pick them up. Having them pile up is only announcing you are away.
- Don't announce it on your answering machine that you are away for 2 weeks. You're only asking for trouble.
- If you are away for an extended period. Have a trusted friend shovel, mow your lawn, and keep the house from becoming over-grown.
- Above all, just have someone stop by the house a few times a week to check on it.
- Teach them the dangers of fire and how to recognize a dangerous situation. Don't play with matches.
- Kids should be able to recite their phone number and address in case they are lost.
- Please teach your children that police officers are their friends, this is very important. Teach your children at an early age how to spot a police officer, and that it is OK to ask them for help whenever they need it. Please refrain from using a police officer as a method to enforce punishment for bad behavior. Singling out a police officer and telling your child "there's a policeman, you'd better be good", will only encourage them not to seek their help when in trouble. All Walpole Police Officers would be happy to speak with your children to help them understand that they are there to help...anytime.
- Teach your children about strangers. Teach them about, "No, Go, Yell, Tell", when they think they are in a dangerous situation.
- Teach your children it is OK to say no to drugs and alcohol.
- Children should learn that they should never give any personal information through the internet, no matter who they "think" they are talking to.
- Teach all your children, no matter what age, that guns can hurt you, and you should never touch a gun no matter who says it's OK.
- Ask for photo identification from service or delivery people before letting them in your home.
- Be sure your street address number is large and clear of obstruction, as well as, well lit and easily seen so emergency personnel can find your home quickly.
- Never give any personal numbers over the phone including, credit card, social security or bank account numbers. It is illegal for telemarketers to ask for this information over the phone to verify prizes.
- Never commit to any sale, prize, gift or any offer over the telephone, by mail, or by solicitors without first consulting a trusted friend or relative.
- You should always have a list of family or friends who can be contacted in case of an emergency. The list, including phone numbers, should be easily accessible at all times. Taped to the refrigerator is always a good place.
Officers Chris Mackenzie and Tom Connor are the Crime Prevention Officers for the Walpole Police Department. They are available, free of charge, to come to your home or business to help you spot danger areas that may be putting you at an unnecessary risk. The simple crime prevention pointers that they offer can improve the safety of your property.
If you are interested, please contact the police station at (508)668-1095, to make an appointment.
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| • Walpole Police Department • Community Committed • |
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