| | Published January 5th, 2011
| Crime Prevention Advice
| | By Cathy Tyson, with Traci Reilly | | |
There's nothing like a home robbery to spoil anyone's good time. Traci Reilly, Chairperson of the Lafayette Crime Prevention Commission, offers suggestions to stay safe. "Get to know your neighbors. Be the eyes and ears of your neighborhood. Work with the Lafayette Police Department and report any suspicious activity immediately by calling (925) 284-5010," said Reilly. She emphasized that crime prevention is a neighborhood concern.
If you plan to be away overnight, the Crime Prevention Commission recommends following these simple suggestions:
Call and notify a nearby neighbor that you trust. Let them know when you will be gone.
Ask a neighbor to pick up your mail and newspapers. If you prefer, you can stop your mail by filling out a form at the Post Office, but we suggest that you don't stop your newspaper. While it is uncommon, we have experienced local burglaries that occurred due to newspaper vacation stops. Unbeknownst to the newspaper delivery person, the "do not deliver list" could get into the wrong person's hands. It's best to have a trusted friend or neighbor collect the newspapers for you.
Lock all doors and windows, and set your alarm if you have one.
Call the Lafayette Police Department ahead of time to request a "Vacation check." The police will periodically check on your home during your absence. They can be reached at (925) 283-3680 during business hours.
Residents should also be aware that Lafayette has a relatively new door to door soliciting ordinance, aimed at curbing solicitors with a criminal background. Anyone sixteen years or older who is selling items or services door-to-door must obtain a permit from the Lafayette Police Department. Reilly feels this is an important tool that will help prevent crimes in our neighborhoods.
Look for a permit, visible at all times, from legitimate solicitors who have passed a background check. They are required to avoid homes with a posted "No solicitors" sign.
"Crime prevention is a partnership, one between the residents and the Police Department. It is important that we all play an active role. We are the Police Department's eyes and ears," said Reilly.
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