Peoria police offer anti-burglary tips
Jan 3, 2014, 12:27 PM | Updated: 12:27 pm
PEORIA, Ariz. — Big televisions, computers, tablets, speakers and high-tech gadgets are all items we likely got around the holidays.
How easy would it be to get them back if they were stolen?
The Peoria Police Department has some tools residents can use to help prevent and investigate property crime.
“Crime Shield is a program that any of our residents can enroll in,” said Peoria Police Officer Amanda Jacinto. “It is a checklist you can download from our website with simple things they can do around their homes to make them less of a target for burglars.”
The checklist allows homeowners, businesses, as well as construction sites and adult care facilities to go around their property and itemize possessions.
In the case of a residence, the checklist allows for writing down serial numbers of electronics and appliances that can be hard to track if stolen.
“Especially after we just got some great Christmas presents,” said Jacinto, “If, for some reason, someone was to break in to your home, having the serial number is very important.”
Once the property is Crime Shield certified, the police department provides a sticker that is placed outside the property telling the criminal the home is protected.
Besides itemizing the items inside homes and businesses, the Crime Shield checklists also have tips on how to keep points of entry protected from criminals.
“Some simple ways to secure your home, your windows and your doggy door,” she said.
The checklist also recommends keeping the front yard well maintained to avoid making the home look vacant. Doors and windows should be clear of shrubs or décor that might keep you from looking out the window. Having enough lighting and making sure your address numbers are visible is also important.
For more information on the Peoria Police Department’s Crime Shield, click here.