Operation Heat Wave: Crime Prevention Tips for Warm Weather

Louise Rogers-Feher

Baltimore County Police Department

Summer is one of our favorite times of year to kick back and relax, but remember — criminals are always on the move. Warm weather may bring more foot traffic to neighborhoods and business districts, but it also brings more criminals looking to commit their next offense.

Don’t get the “summertime blues” — use these common sense measures to help prevent crime at your home or business.

Warm Weather Crime Prevention Tips

• Beware of Deception Burglaries and Home Improvement Scams
  Be proactive: protect your property.
• Lock All Doors and Windows
  Lock windows and doors when you’re away. If you’re going to be in the back yard, lock the front door.
• Burglars Shun Good Locks and Lights
  Consider installing specialty locks, which often deter thieves.
• Neighborhood Awareness: The Key to Crime Prevention
  Be alert and aware; always notify police of unusual activity in your community.
• Windows Open and Convertible Tops Down - An Open Invitation to a Thief
  Avoid thefts from your vehicle with these simple tips.
• Got a Bike? Engrave It, Lock It or Lose It
  Have your bike engraved, and don’t forget to lock it.
• ATV Education and Enforcement
  Tips to help you keep it legal, ride safely and prevent theft.
• Fraud Often Follows Disasters
  Don’t fall victim to a scam after a bad storm. When disaster strikes, people are sometimes vulnerable and become good targets for identity theft or scam artists.
• Stay Alert
  Witnesses can be a valuable deterrent to a burglary.

• Spring Cleaning
  Businesses should get rid of clutter and evaluate (or create) their safety and security plan.
• Hiring Summer Help
  Business managers —fill that position with a qualified new employee.