June 2019: Summer is the Peak Season for Burglary

Due to Summer being the prime time for vacation, it is also the peak season for burglaries. The Winter Springs Police want to ensure your safety by providing you tips and reminders to reduce your vulnerability to theft.

Theft Prevention for Vehicles:

1. Lock the doors. Double check your windows and door locks to ensure they are operating correctly. Lock it, or lose it!

2. Do not leave valuable items inside of your vehicle, including firearms. If you are a concealed weapon permit holder or firearm owner, it is your responsibility to ensure the security of that firearm at all times. Remember, just because you put something under the seat or a towel does not mean it is hidden from a passerby.

3. Be conscious of where you park. Park in well-lit and visible areas.

Theft Prevention for Your Home:

1. Again, lock all the doors and windows. While at home, create a habit of keeping doors and windows locked.

2. Keep your garage door closed.

3. Report unusual occurrences and solicitors to the police.

4. Verify all contractors and service personnel with whom you are doing business.

Before You Leave on Vacation:

1. Fill out our House Check Form to request the Winter Springs Police Department to check on your house while you are out of town.

2. Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to check in on your home from time to time.

3. Do not post information regarding the duration that you will be gone on any social media. That includes all family members.

4. Schedule to have your mail and newspaper held at the post office or picked up by a friend.

Preparing for Your Trip:

1. Research your destination and familiarize yourself with it. Know what to do in case of emergency and what resources are available to you.

2. Do not carry large sums of cash. Carry multiple limited-balance, reloadable cards. They are like traveler’s checks and are guaranteed against loss or theft. They can be canceled and reissued. Bring one credit card with low or no balance for emergencies.

3. Do not leave valuables in the hotel room. If you must, use the safe in the room or ask at the front desk. Most hotels have a safe for just such occasions.

4. Beware of leaving valuables by the pool or on the beach.  A towel is a poor substitute for security.

By turning up your vigilance just a bit, you can significantly reduce the risk of being victimized by burglary. If you deny criminals the opportunity to commit a crime, you will have done everything you can do to prevent crime. You will have become part of the 360 shield which protects our community.