Summertime Security Tips

  • May 24, 2010

Often there is an increase in residential burglary and theft in the warm weather months. At times, we leave our windows open for ventilation when we are not home. In a vast number of summertime burglaries, the burglar gains entry through an opened or unlocked door or window. We also see an increase in theft of personal property, because there is a tendency to leave items, such as bicycles, unattended at parks. The Seattle Police Department offers summertime security tips.

Most of these thefts can be prevented just by giving things a second thought, rather than just "leaving them for a second."

Home Security
When you are away from home, close and lock your doors and windows. If you want to leave windows open enough for ventilation, but not wide enough for someone to gain entry, use a dowel for sliding glass windows cut to allow the window to open no more than 4”. For double hung windows, consider sash pins. Some windows have stops installed on the inside track, which will also prevent the window from being opened to far.

Yard Work
Don't make it easy for the burglar! Make sure even if you are just running for a quick trip or working outside that you don't leave your doors unlocked or visibly opened. When working in the yard in the back of the home, do not leave the front door open and/or unlocked. If you have a garage or storage unit that is out of your line of sight while you are working in the yard, be mindful of what are you showing in plain view to anyone who may be walking or driving by.

Gardening tools, lawnmowers, other yard tools, ladders… all tend to be stolen more in warm weather months. Make sure you lock them up in the garage, shed, etc.

Heat In Cars

Remember to NEVER leave pets unattended in a hot vehicle with the windows rolled up. If you leave a pet in a car, roll the windows down enough for ventilation and provide a dish of water. Better to leave the pet at home rather than in a sweltering car.

Children SHOULD NEVER BE LEFT UNATTENDED in cars, even for a short time.

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