Notes from the July 2015 Crime Watch Meeting
by Mary Trombitas.
Thanks for coming out to the meeting
last week. I know that if we continue to have this level of support
we will accomplish our goal to increase safety and security in FS.
For those who could not attend the meeting, this is a synopsis of
the information we shared:
Deputy Jessica Hughes shared recent criminal statistics. Recently,
there have been 23 vehicles burglarized, 1 grand theft, and 1 house
burglary. There is no known pattern in the timing of the burglaries.
They occur across days and times. Report all non-emergency
suspicious behavior using the PCSO main number 727-582-6200.
Street Lights: If the street lights in your area are either not
working or not staying contact Duke Energy by phone or access their
website and report it. They will schedule a repair/replacement for
the light.
Vehicles: Remember to lock your doors. If criminals find the
majority of our car doors locked, they may begin to lose interest in
our neighborhood.
Garage doors: Keep garage doors closed. Newer garage doors may have
a lockout device function. Check with your garage door vendor. Tie
rap your garage door cord release as it can be accessed externally.
Newspapers: Pick up neighbor’s newspapers or solicitations if
accumulating.
Pet Sitters: Ask your pet sitter to remove their magnet from their
car while parked in your driveway.
Vacations: Call the sheriff’s department and request a “vacation
check.” Deputies will drive by your home intermittently while you’re
away. Let your neighbor know you’re on vacation and what vehicles
should be parked in your driveway.
Alarms: Use an internal security system. Alarm windows inside.
Alarms can be purchased from any hardware store. Security systems
may also decrease your homeowners insurance premium.
Outside your home: Keep all bushes and hedges trimmed to increase
visibility. Add motion flood lights. Mount cameras that are
operative or just a camera that is not operating as it can act as a
good deterrent.
Take a picture of suspicious cars and plates if comfortable. Call
the PCSO and provide details.
Finally, anything you do to add time to a criminal’s ability to
burglarize your property will help as it takes time to assess a home
and they are often more successful when a quick assessment and entry
is available. Be vigilant, aware, and report all suspicious
activities to the PCSO – 727-582-6200.
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