Each shift of the Police Department encounters situations particular to the time of day in which they work. Officers working on the midnight shift report several areas of concern which if corrected, could potentially reduce or eliminate future problems. The following suggestions may seem obvious, but are noted on a regular basis:

1.  Leave an exterior light on all night. Lights are a deterrent to potential criminals.

2.  Make sure that your house number is displayed prominently on the front of your home.  In an emergency, every second counts.

3.  Keep garage doors closed and locked overnight. An open door is an open invitation.

4.  Lock the doors on vehicles Housed outside over night. The Police Department encounters very few forced entries into vehicles.

5.  If you plan to be away from home for a period of time, ask a neighbor to clear snow off your drive and walk. If nothing else, have them drive in and out of your driveway a few times to give the appearance of activity at your home.

These are five low cost and quick ways to improve the security of your home, and to help us help you!

BURGLARY PREVENTION TIPS

While burglary is not a big problem in our community, it is a fact of life in today's society. The Elk Grove Village Police Department recommends the following simple, low cost or no-cost steps that can be taken to reduce your home's chance of being targeted:

• If you have an electric garage door opener, unplug it so it cannot be activated.
• Install timers on a few lights throughout your home to give the appearance that someone is home.
• Leave drapes and other window coverings open.
• If possible, leave a car in the driveway or have a friend or neighbor park their car there.
• Double check to ensure that all doors and windows are securely locked.
• Have a friend or trusted neighbor periodically check your home and pick up all deliveries, mail, and newspapers, If possible, supply them with a number where you can be reached in an emergency.
• Call the Crime Prevention Section of the Police Department for a security survey.   A specially trained officer can assess your home and advise you of any potential problems.