BICYCLE SAFETY TIPS FOR KIDS

• Always wear a properly fitting helmet.
• Stop and look in all directions for traffic.
• Obey traffic signs and signals.
• Ride on the right-hand side of the street (with traffic).
• Wear light or bright colored clothing.
• Avoid loose-fitting pants.
• Do not ride at night.

PERSONAL SAFETY

• Never let strangers into your home.
• Do not give out personal information over the phone.
• Look inside your vehicle before getting into it.
• Do not go home if being followed.  Drive to a police station or well-populated area and ask for help.
• Be alert and aware of your surroundings.
• Never put your purse or wallet on the counter or leave it in a shopping cart while examining merchandise.
• Always put your purse over your shoulder.  Never hold it just by the strap.
• Do not be conned.  If it sounds too good to be true, it most likely is.  Never send money for a chance to win something or obtain merchandise you did not order.

PROPERTY PROTECTION

• Entry doors should have deadbolt locks with at least a 1” throw.
• Basement windows should be permanently secured unless used as an emergency exit.
• Garage doors should always be closed and locked.
• Keep shrubbery trimmed away from windows and doors.  These allow for concealment of intruders.
• Record serial numbers for items in your home and garage when possible in case of theft. It is a good idea to make a video recording or take photographs of all items of value.
• Marking stereos, televisions, tools etc. with your driver’s license number helps identify property if it is stolen. ***
• Make sure you take the car keys with you when you exit your car.
• Never leave valuables in your car in plain view.  If you must leave items in your car, lock them in the trunk.
• Do not leave your vehicle running with keys in the ignition when you are away from the vehicle.
• Keep bikes locked when not using them.
• Make sure bikes are registered (the Police Department issues bike licenses).

***Engravers are available at the Police Department for resident’s use.

VACATION SECURITY PRACTICES

• Make your home look as normal as possible.
• Keep shades in daytime position (this allows police to see in).
• Put lights, both interior and exterior, on timers when possible.
• Have your mail and newspapers picked up.
• Keep grass cut/driveway shoveled.
• Put your home on the police vacation house checklist.  
• Unplug all unnecessary electrical items.
• Turn down volume on telephone and answering machine.

WALKING SAFETY TIPS

• Always walk on sidewalks when available or on the left-hand side of the road (facing traffic).
• Wear bright or light colored clothing.
• At night wear clothing with reflective stripes or patches.
• Always carry some form of identification in case of accident or emergency.
• Always walk or jog in pairs at night or after dark.
• Follow all traffic signals and safety rules. They are there for your protection.
• When walking or jogging with  headphones, always be aware of your surroundings.