Burglary is a major crime and impacts homeowners in single and multi-family dwellings across the country. Leg. Judy Jacobs points out that it is up to homeowners to be aware of what can be done in addition to installing a burglar alarm, which is a very effective deterrent. It is important to note that during this time of year it gets dark early and homes are at a higher risk of burglary.
The following is a set of logical items the Nassau County Police Department believes all homeowners should be aware of:
• The outside of the house should always be secured. • Windows and doors should always be locked when leaving the house. This should include all rear gates as well.
• Do not post anything on the Internet that would indicate you and your family are away from the house.
• Make sure all alarm stickers are visible on doors and windows, and easily seen from the street or the sidewalk.
• If at all possible, keep a car in the driveway.
• Do not leave packages, mail or newspapers outside for extended periods of time. The same can be said for garbage cans on the curb.
To secure points of entry into your home it is suggested that:
• You install outside motion detection lights at the corners of your house (make sure they are high enough so a burglar cannot unscrew the bulb).
• Make sure your doors are solid and avoid large glass panels that make it easy for an intruder to break.
• Use dead bolt locks.
• Ensure that sliding doors have metal pins or a metal bar installed.
• Leave lights on a timer to go on as soon as it is getting dark.
• Cut down any large shrubs or trees, which block entrances to your house.
The Nassau County Police Department is asking that all residents ‘target harden’ their houses by walking around, following the listed suggestions, doing a thorough security inspection, and taking care of any problems you note.
“This is not difficult to do, and so important for our piece of mind,” said Jacobs. The NCPD also wants you to be alert when entering or leaving your home. If you notice someone or something suspicious, call 911 immediately.
