Safety Tips
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Many burglars will spend no more than 60 seconds attempting to break into a home. Make sure every external door has a sturdy, wall installed deadbolt lock.
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Sliding glass doors offer easy access if not properly secured. You can secure them by installing commercially available locks or putting a broomstick or wooden dowel in the inside track to jam the door.
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Never hide house keys under the door mat or a rock that is near your door. Most burglars know that trick. Instead give an extra key to a trusted neighbor.
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When you move to a new house or apartment have a competent locksmith rekey the locks.
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All outside doors to your home should be metal or solid wood.
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Install a peephole in all entry doors so you can see who is outside without opening the door.
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Do not use door chains, they break easily and do not keep intruders out.
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- Prune back shrubbery and trees so they do not obscure windows or doors.
- Install outdoor floodlights or motion-sensor lights to eliminate any areas where someone might hide.
- When you go out of town, give your house that "lived-in look" by putting a few of your lights on timers. Also stop your mail and newspaper delivery or have a trusted neighbor pick it up for you.
- While driving, lock your doors and roll up your windows. Park in well-lit areas and keep all valuables out of sight and in the trunk.
- While walking, avoid isolated areas. Walk confidently and with another person if possible. Do not carry a lot of cash and avoid wearing anything that would attract unwanted attention like furs or jewelry.
- When answering the door, never let in a stranger for ANY reason.
- Always ask service people for identification before letting them into your home. You may want to contact their company to verify their identity and employment.
- Never pick up hitchhikers.
- Beware of a stranger who approaches you with a "great" business opportunity. If it sounds too good to be true, it almost always is.
- Do not leave anything such as ladders or tools lying around that can be used to break into your home.
- If you are female and live alone, do not advertise it by putting your "Miss Jane Doe" on the doorbell or mailbox. Just put the initial of your first name and your last name.
- Mark all of your valuables with your drivers license number. Engravers are available from the Jacksonville Police Department on a loan-out basis.
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- Never leave your keys in your car.
- Never leave your car doors unlocked.
- If possible, when in a city, choose a parking lot with an attendant.
- Write down and report to police the license numbers on vehicles you feel are suspicious in your neighborhood.
- Remove any identification from your personal key ring.
- Ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on your home while you are away, and you do the same for them.
- Be aware of your surroundings - know who is out there and what is going on.
- Trust your instincts. If a situation or place makes you feel uncomfortable or uneasy, leave.
- Join a neighborhood watch group or start one with the help from the Jacksonville Police Department.
- If for any reason you have an emergency, dial 911.
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