Crime Prevention Basics
Why Crime Happens
Crime happens because of three elements:
- Motivation: Need for money, drug/alcohol, peer pressure, gang initiation
- Risk Assessment: Criminal looks at the risk of getting caught and getting away
- Victim: Easy target that provides the opportunity
Vehicle
- Check the vehicle before entering.
- Don’t carry too many things in your arms going to and from the vehicle.
- Don’t leave any valuables inside the vehicle--including cell phone, GPS.
- Don’t linger in your car (reading, eating, napping, etc).
- Have keys, pepper spray, flash light ready when walking to destination.
- Immediately lock your car when entering and exiting.
- Keep the windows rolled up more than half way.
- Look around for suspicious persons or vehicles near your car.
- Park in a safe place, making sure there is adequate lighting and that your car is in public view.
Home
- Consider a dog or other security devices as a deterrent.
- Do not hide keys outside the residence. Leave extra keys with trusted neighbor.
- Don’t open the door to strangers, talk through closed doors.
- Have adequate exterior and interior lighting.
- If you return home and notice signs of entry, do not go inside, call 911.
- Join a Neighborhood Crime Watch.
- Lock doors and windows at all times. Use a peephole at front door.
- Set TV, lights, radios on timers.
Work
- At night, have a co-worker watch or walk you to your car.
- Be aware of persons loitering near the business or parking lot.
- Do not allow visitors, clients or strangers to move about unescorted.
- If you must work late by yourself, let someone know and call them when you leave.
- Lock purse/wallet in your desk.
When on foot
- Be aware of who and what is around you.
- Carry a dummy wallet and/or purse.
- Carry purse/bag close to your body but not around your neck.
- Do not use alleys or shortcuts or cross vacant fields.
- Limit the amount of personal valuables you carry.
- Walk confidently with your head up, looking from side to side.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
- Whenever possible, go with a friend.
Remember – if you ‘See Something, Say Something’.
Contact Us
Report all suspicious activity to the Police Department non-emergency number, (510) 790-6800, option 3.
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