Springtime Safety tips from NRA Refuse To Be A Victim: Unfortunately, as the weather gets warmer we see an increase in deception burglaries and home improvement scams. These criminals are generally on the move and heading north during the warmer months. Be mindful of deception schemes: A criminal may pose as a friend or relative of a neighbor, knock on your door, and ask for a pen to leave a note for the neighbor. While the homeowner is distracted, a second criminal will enter the residence and look for money and valuables. A criminal may pose as a repairman or home improvement worker and approach you working in your yard, offering a bargain price on a home repair or landscaping. Legitimate home improvement companies will rarely go door to door; rather, they will leave flyers or make phone calls. Request to see proper identification for anyone who knocks on your door, and never let them enter your house. A criminal posing as a repair person might offer a great deal but only if you pay up front or with cash. A reputable company will not expect full payment until the job is finished. These criminals often try to intimidate their prey. After a job is finished (often poorly), the customer is informed that they owe more money. Always get a written contract before the job is started! When you are out working or playing in your yard, dont assume your valuables are safe just because you are at home! Keep doors to your house, garage, and shed locked and the key with you. Criminals will look for open sheds in the back while the owner is in front and seize this easy opportunity. If youre leaving on vacation, be sure to take time to prepare your house for your absence. Have a trusted neighbor get your mail and newspapers; program light timers to turn on and off to mimic your normal schedule. Also, be mindful of what you post social media. When you post about your vacation it tells criminals that your house is unoccupied!
Posted on: Thu, 29 May 2014 12:38:48 +0000
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