×
X logo

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox.

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)

You may opt-out anytime by clicking "unsubscribe" from the newsletter or from your account.

Ohio County Sheriff’s Office Urges Making Security Checks Part of Nightly Routine

Photo by Heather Ziegler A set of keys, garage door opener, cellphone and loose change left in plain sight in a vehicle can be temptations for burglars.

The Ohio County Sheriff’s Office has kicked off its #9PMROUTINE campaign in hopes of raising awareness and promoting safer habits among residents to prevent thefts from vehicles, as well as homes.

To take part in the #9PMROUTINE, simply set an alarm on a smart phone, watch or other device as a reminder to do the following every night:

∫ Remove valuables (electronics, wallets, etc.) from a vehicle.

∫ Ensure that vehicle doors and trunks are locked.

∫ Check that all house and property exterior doors and garage doors are locked.

∫ Turn on exterior lights.

Also, Sheriff Tom Howard reminded the public that vacation time is an opportunity for burglars.

An empty house and a lack of preparation to properly secure a residence can make a home an easy target for thieves who recognize the clues of an absentee homeowner.

Howard suggests people follow the following home security to-do list before hitting the road, cruising the seas or racking up sky miles:

∫ Have the post office hold mail. Sign up for the USPS Hold Mail Service by visiting https://holdmail.usps.com/holdmail.

∫ Request a temporary stop of the newspaper. Nothing screams “no one is home” as do papers piled in a driveway or front porch.

∫ Place timers on lights and televisions to make it look like someone is home.

∫ Stay away from posting an absence online. Make an agreement with family members not to post vacation plans and locations on social media.

∫ Let a friend, neighbor or relative know before leaving and when returning.

∫ Lock it up. Make sure all doors and windows are locked and properly secured.

∫ Put away valuable jewelry, cash or anything that is easy for a burglar to quickly grab and stuff in clothes.

∫ Consider installing security cameras near vulnerable entrances to a home. There are many reasonably priced, easy-to-use systems on the market.

∫ Remember to set a home alarm before leaving.

∫ Make sure the alarm company has updated keyholder information on file.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

COMMENTS

Starting at $4.73/week.

Subscribe Today