While most of us know the basics of home safety, it was pleasant and informative to hear Sheriff Representative Heather Turco remind us of them. And we learned some new things as well. The Residential Safety–How to Deter Thieves presentation took place on Tuesday, October 15 at the clubhouse. Approximately 35 residents attended. The presentation focused on our homes, valuables, vehicles, and neighborhood contacts. Among the tips were:
• Keep doors and windows always locked.
• Keep your garage door closed.
• Use alarms and/or cameras and keep blinds/drapes closed at night and open during the day.
• Never hide keys outside.
• Do not mention travel plans on social media.
• Keep shrubs and trees trimmed (so no one can hide in or behind them).
• Shred important documents.
• Store valuables in a safe place other than the master bedroom (this is where thieves look first).
• Keep an inventory of valuables–either a list, video, or photographs (including serial/model numbers).
• Attach trackers on bicycles, golf carts, even wallets.
• Always lock your car and remove valuables.
• Know your neighbors and communicate with them.
• Report suspicious people, behavior, and vehicles (239-477-1000).
• Report a crime in progress or an emergency by calling 911.
• If you spot someone/something suspicious, focus on identifying a person from the top down (hair, clothing,shoes) or for a car, focus on color, dents, decals, and other identifying elements.
Criminals hate lights and noise or attention– they do not want to risk being caught. They dislike dogs, nosy neighbors and they look like an “average person.”
Thanks to Raphael for scheduling this presentation and to Heather Turco and the Sheriff’s Department for bringing it to us.
Stay safe everyone.
