Home Security

a Burglary involves someone unlawfully entering a building or residence and committing a crime, most often theft. Burglarizing a home can lead to a 5, 10 or even a 20 year prison sentence. Burglars often commit crimes to support an illegal drug habit, so their motivation may be more than monetary gain. If burglars need to make money to support a drug habit (possibly as high as $100 to $150 per day), they are going to find someone to victimize. The question is, "will that victim be you?"

Burglars choose their target the same way as other criminals do, they look for the easiest target. One question every home owner should ask is "what type of target does my home present to a would-be burglar?"

Most burglaries occur when people are away from their home, often during the day or working hours. The physical security of your home, therefore, is essential when trying to avoid becoming a victim of a property crime. There are a few steps you can take in making your home a "hard target" for a burglar or any other thief.

First, make it a habit of checking doors and windows to see if they are secure or locked. The best lock that money can buy will only work if it is activated or locked. Sadly, many crimes in the community occur simply because someone failed to turn a lock that was already installed.

Second, consider the structural integrity of the locks. Are they still able to do what they are intended to do? A sliding glass or patio door lock may need additional security (door stop or jam that is clearly visible). A single lock may need an additional deadbolt. Check the screws in the window locks as they tend to come loose if you frequently lock and unlock the windows. Furthermore, do not assume that because a window is on the second floor or higher, it will not be targeted. Although windows and doors on the ground are clearly an easier target, a determined burglar may gamble with a little extra effort to see if you have left elevated doors and windows unlocked. It will be up to you to determine if that gamble pays off.

WARNING: Never secure a door or lock to the point that you cannot readily open it to escape in case of a fire or other emergency.

Third, consider the exterior environment around your home. Sufficient lighting for the "night-time" criminals is an excellent deterrent. If you have inadequate lighting on the interior and exterior of your home, that could serve as a calling card to burglars and thieves that your home may be an easy target.

Interior Lighting

When you are away from your home, you should leave lights on. However, if you are away from home for an extended time that too could serve as a tell-tale sign that no one is home. Utilize a timer for your lights so that they turn off and on intermittently as if someone was actually at home. This can create just enough uncertainty to make a would-be burglar move on to an easier target (someone who has chosen not to take steps to protect his/her home and property).

Lights on a timer should be visible from the street to serve as an effective deterrent, as well as enabling you to come home to a house that has sufficient lighting. They are easy to operate and will save you money.

Exterior Lighting

Only you know what type of lighting is best for your home. However, if you know you have inadequate lighting you should take steps as soon as possible to repair or replace them. Sensor lights are especially good because they ideally operate on low wattage until someone activates the sensor. The lights then switch to full power illuminating a broad area. When would-be thieves are caught in the middle of a high beam light, they simply do not know if they have been compromised. Standard lighting creates shadows and areas of opportunity to work in the dark (behind a vehicle, tree or shrub), but sensor lights catch people out in the open. It illuminates them for everyone to see (neighbors or the police on routine patrol).

Also, consider the plants and trees around your home. If you cannot see your doors and windows, then no one can see a burglar breaking into your home through those same doors and windows. Excessive plants or greenery provides excellent concealment that is a perfect environment for a would-be burglar to gain entry to your house with any number of tools at his disposal. Furthermore, excessive shubbery eliminates the need for a rapid entry as the burglar does not have to worry about being seen by others.


Finally, get involved in a neighborhood watch or, at least, watch out for each other. Find someone that you know and trust on your street to help look out for your home and property and vice versa. Crime prevention is a community effort. The Louisville Metro Police Department is committed to involving citizens in our crime prevention strategies. We need your help to make our community a safe, more secure place in which to live.

If you are a victim of a crime, there is one more step you can take to help bring those responsible to justice. In the past, it has been called "Operation Identification", but it is simply creating a written inventory (item, make, model and serial number) of all your valuables. If someone steals something from you and you have the serial number to provide to the police officer, it will be recorded into the National Crime Information Center database. If the item is found, across the street or across the country, officers will be able to collect your property and charge the person who has it with receiving stolen property. Police having documentation of stolen property can be the difference between a suspect still walking the streets or being behind bars where they belong.

AUTO THEFT

Several crimes in our community involve thefts from automobiles. Automobiles involve target opportunities for criminals as vehicles are relatively easy to get into by even the most inexperienced criminal.

You will have to make a conscious decision that you are going to do everything in your power to stop your vehicle from being broken into. As demonstrated by the photograph, simply locking your vehicle is not enough. A glass window is not going to keep a criminal, desperate for cash, away from your GPS, cell phone or other valuables left in plain view inside your vehicle.

First Step - Locking your vehicle is essential. If a criminal has to choose between a door that is locked and one that is unlocked, he/she is going to go the the unlocked vehicular door. Unfortunately, people who routinely commit thefts from automobiles typically do not have to look very long. Approximately half of reported thefts from automobiles in your community involve a vehicle that was left unlocked. Leaving unlocked vehicles at service stations is another bad example of making yourself a target for a crime, especially if the vehicle is left running.

Second Step - Leaving a vehicle running at your home, or even for a quick stop, is not only a bad idea, as experienced criminals typically profile this type of activity, but it is also against the law. It is not uncommon for teams of would-be car thieves to patrol through neighborhoods or stake out convenient stores, looking for running, unlocked or unattended vehicles. Your vehicle is ready to be driven away with your personal affects, even your identity, which could costs you thousands of dollars in the future.


Step Three - You can minimize your chances of being a victim of a theft from your automobile by taking your valuables, or any sign of valuables, inside or locking them in the trunk. In addition to removing your GPS system or cell phone, you should also take, or at least conceal, chargers and mounts which serve as tell-tale signs that these items are sometimes in your vehicle. Someone could break into your vehicle on the chance that items that go with the mounts or chargers are simply out of view. They could also keep an eye on your vehicle and try to target you at a later date when the items are left in the vehicle. Again, a locked door and a glass window will not keep someone from getting to your valuables.

 

Removing electronics or other valuables every time you leave your vehicle is an inconvenience, but you will have to take extra steps to be extra safe. Practicing diligence is a sure way to begin making your home and personal property safer. When you look into your vehicle, you may see a GPS system, Blackberry, personal computer or any number of today's gadgets designed to make your life easier. A criminal sees only one thing - MONEY. On that note, leaving any amount of money in your vehicle eliminates one more thing a criminal has to do to get the money he/she needs (i.e. selling your stuff) to someone for about a quarter of its actual value. Even in a crowded area, a thief can be in and out of your vehicle before anyone realizes what has happened, that is until you come back to your vehicle and realize you have been the victim of a crime.

 

Lastly, leaving a garage door opener inside your car is an invitation for a criminal to gain access to your garage and even your home. Police have responded to burglaries that originated by the burglar gaining access to a locked home via the garage door opener left in the unlocked vehicle. It may take some time to get into the habit of not making your car a target, but your property and, more importantly your safety, may depend on it.

Personal Safety

Being a victim of a crime can be a traumatic experience. This is why the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) is committed to reducing crime, preventing crime and enhancing the quality of life for those in our community. Protecting your home and your property is essential, but there are also steps that you should be aware of when it comes to personal safety. Crimes against persons are serious and the laws in Kentucky, as well as the policies of the LMPD, reflect this. If you are a victim of a crime, the LMPD is going to do everything in its ability to solve the crime. It is our goal to provide you with the information to help you make informed decisions to help us in our mission of making Louisville and your neighborhood a better place to live.

As with all crime prevention, personal safety involves being aware of your surroundings and not presenting yourself as a target for a robbery, theft or assault. Although anyone can be a victim of a crime at any location, there are some habits you can develop that will decrease the likelihood of becoming a victim of a violent crime.

Street Robberies are serious crimes that involve either force or the threat of force in the commission of the crime. It does carry serious consequences. Furthermore, violent crimes not only have typically long prison sentences, but recent legislation prevents violent offenders from being eligible for parole until they have served almost 90% of their original sentence. It is hard to believe that someone would risk going to prison for several years for a small sum of money, but these types of crimes happen every day in America.

Many street robberies happen in the evening or low-light hours. Robbery victims are typically chosen by a chance encounter on the street or through a brief observation in a specific area (ATM, bar, store, etc.).

If you are walking down a street and observe a group of suspicious people walking toward you, confidently and briskly walk to the other side of the street. Make it appear as if you are going to a specific address, but do not appear as though you are unfamiliar with the area. When you do walk down a street, walk facing on-coming traffic to prevent a vehicle from approaching you from behind.

When you are making purchases or withdrawing money from an ATM, avoid letting your cash be seen as much as possible. Flashing cash is almost certainly going to draw attention to you. Finally, avoid travelling alone or drinking excessively, either one of these activities can make you can easy target for a street robbery.

More tips on personal safety:

 

At home

Always leave your headlights on when arriving home after dark until you have unlocked the garage door.

When arriving home by private auto or taxi, ask the driver to wait until you are safely inside.

Have the door key in your hand so you can open the door immediately when you return home.

If you are a woman alone, list only your first initial and last name on the mailbox, or in the telephone directory.

When moving into a new apartment or residence, ALWAYS have the locks re-keyed, or changed.

Know who is at your door before opening it.

Wide angle door viewers (180 degrees or 190 degrees) enable you to identify the visitor. You can see the person, that person can't see you.

Never rely on chain locks. They are a privacy lock, but not a security lock.

Never dress in front of windows, always close your drapes.

Never let anyone into your home without proper identification.

Don't be afraid to ask for identification.

Never let strangers into your home to use the telephone. Make the call for them while they wait outside.

Always leave outside lights on after dark, or use motion lights.

If you receive a wrong number phone call, don't give out your name or phone number.

If you receive an obscene phone call, hang up and call police.

In an apartment building, NEVER be alone in the laundry room.

If you suspect that someone is in your house, do not go in. Go to a neighbor and call the police.

If you see or hear anything suspicious, call the police.


At Places of Business

Opening the business: Have two employees together meet and unlock the business. One should stay outside, while the other checks the interior. After clearing, both may enter.

Closing the Business: Employees should accompany each other to their vehicles-- especially at night. If this is not possible, perhaps a security guard for the shopping center can escort the last employee to his/her car.

Bank Deposits: Making bank deposits alone can be dangerous. Employees making deposits should always go in pairs. If you are alone, vary deposit times and carry the deposit inside a purse or a plain bag. Do not use a bank bag or a bag with a name on it. NEVER make deposits after closing, as this is obvious and could result in a hold-up.

Taking out the trash: Doing this in pairs is much safer, both for the employees and the business.

Panic buttons: Install panic buttons at the front counter. Make sure there are phones near both front and rear entrances.

Controlling Access: This enhances personal security. Keep secondary exits locked. Limit access to secondary exits by non-employees by having doors alarmed and labeled "EMERGENCY EXIT ONLY" or limit access to the area around the door.

Keep Restrooms Locked: Be in control of access to restrooms, storage areas, etc. This prevents assailants from hiding in waiting and "breakouts."

ID Badges for Access Control: They are only as good as the enforcement of the policy.

Visibility: This increases safety. Keep parking and walking areas well lit, and keep the area around the building clear of debris. Stacks of boxes and pallets can be hiding places for assailants. Install mirrors or Closed Circuit TV in rooms with blind corners and in enclosed parking facilities.


While You Are Out

Try NOT to go out alone at night. Avoid unfamiliar areas, if possible.

Don't take shortcuts: don't walk in or near alleys, and don't walk on deserted streets.

Use caution in parking lots, and don't walk in poorly lighted areas, or dark doorways, or near shrubbery.

Don't accept rides from strangers, and don't respond to comments from strangers on the street.

Don't get into an empty elevator with a stranger. If you do ride with another person, stand near the control panel and if attacked, press an many of the control buttons as possible.

Don't hitchhike, and if someone suspicious is following you, cross the street and walk into an open business.

Watch your surroundings and be alert for suspicious persons, especially around banks, stores, street, and your car or home.

If you are alone at work after business hours, keep the door locked. If you work late, ask the security guard or a co-worker to walk you to your car.

When meeting a new friend, exchange phone numbers only, not addresses.

On a first date, let family and friends know where you are going. Consider a daytime meeting rather than a night meeting, for a first date, and meet in a public place.

It is never a good idea to go to a nightclub alone, and if you do, provide your own transportation.

Keep your space - Intimate space - 0 to 1.5 feet Personal space - 1.5 to 4 feet Social space - 4 to 12 feet Public space - 12 feet or more.

Don't allow alcohol or drugs to impair your judgment. If you haven't already set a few social standards, do so and stick to them.
Don't allow an overly aggressive pursuer to change your mind. 


In Your Automobile

Never pickup hitchhikers.

Don't park in the dark.

Never leave your keys in the car.

Never allow another vehicle to follow you home.
Have your keys in hand so you can open the car door without delay.

Always keep your car in gear when stopped at a traffic signal or stop sign, so if threatened in any way, you can quickly drive away.

Always check the back seat of your car before getting in.

If you stop to aid others, do not get out of the car. Ask what the problem is, and go to the nearest phone and call the police.

Always lock your doors while driving.

Always prearrange meeting with anyone so you do not have to wait alone.


What To Do If You Are Attacked

Use common sense. Try to talk your way out of it.

Stall for time.

Be verbally assertive.

Distract or divert the assailant, then flee.

Run toward an open business or a group of people.

Hide if you get the opportunity.

Scream loudly, and keep it up to attract attention and help from people near by.

If the attacker threatens you with a deadly weapon, and you come out of it alive, you took the proper course of action. During an armed attack, you must decide the proper course of action. There is no hard and fast rule as to self defense. You must consider your physical capabilities, your location, and your perceived chances of success. If you cannot escape, bide your time and look for another opportunity, a half-hearted attempt could be worse than no attempt at all.

Notify the police immediately, when you get the opportunity, and if there are witnesses, ask them to stay until police arrive.

And finally, if a crime occurs, report it. When you report a crime and all the facts about it, it helps the police to assign officers in the places where crimes are occurring or where they are most likely to occur. If you don't report a crime, this allows the criminal to operate without interference. Tell the police what you know. No fact is too trivial.


Robbery Prevention Tips

Avoid poorly lit areas. If you must walk through such areas, walk purposefully and with an air of confidence.

When walking to your vehicle, have your car keys in hand, before walking across the parking lot.

When you enter your vehicle, immediately lock your doors.

When driving, keep your doors locked at all times and your car windows rolled up to the point that an arm can't be stuck into your vehicle.

When possible, don't walk alone or on dark streets, or take short cuts through deserted area.

Avoid displaying large amounts of cash, and keep tempting targets, such as jewelry, as hidden as much as possible.

Before you use a bank's automated teller machine, be observant. Look around the area for people loitering. If you see a suspicious person or persons, do not use that machine at that time.

Whenever possible, park your car in a well-lit area and as close to an open business as possible.

 

If you see someone that is acting suspicious or if you see a crime being committed don't hesitate to call the Harlan County Sheriff's Office at 606-573-1313. If it's a emergency call 911