Police Chiefs of Homewood and Flossmoor spoke at the November meeting of the Homewood-Flossmoor Area League of Women Voters held at the Homewood Library. Flossmoor Chief of Police Michael Pulec and Homewood Police Chief Larry Burnson shared many tips with the audience on how to keep themselves and their communities safe. They advised residents to avoid car burglaries by always locking their cars and leaving nothing of value inside. They recommended leaving lights on outside all night (a well-lit house is better than a dark one, especially in the spring and summer when leafy trees block views), use timers inside and changing the times when the lights go on and off so burglars will be less likely to figure out when you are home or gone. Home alarm systems give an extra level of security, they said, and they recommend that everyone has one.
Knowing your neighbors is helpful, too; if you know their habits and they know yours, you will be more likely to notice something suspicious at one another's homes. When in doubt, the chiefs say to always call 911. If asked, the police will do a "security check" of your home, pointing out possible vulnerable areas that can be made more secure.
Avoid "ruse burglaries." Men -- often working in teams -- prey on the elderly who are the most vulnerable to suggestions that they need home repairs, to come outside to look at a problem in the backyard, etc. Unless you are expecting someone and he has legitimate identification, never open the door to allow a repairman or salesperson into your home. Instead, call the police to inquire if the company the person supposedly represents is a legitimate one.
The chiefs reminded the audience that crimes usually get more publicity than arrests do. All too often those who publish a list of crimes in the villages do not follow up with the arrests that have been made -- and there are many arrests which unfortunately are not reported.
Following their presentation, Chiefs Pulec and Burnson answered many questions from the audience who expressed appreciation for their fine presentation.
