Q: We’ve recently noticed suspicious activity in our neighborhood. How do we go about getting the police to patrol our neighborhood more?
Please call your local Dallas Police Division Station. The number for the Northeast Patrol Division is 214-670-4415. That number is answered 24 hours a day, and you can request an “Extra Patrol” sheet be completed for your location. This sheet is given to each patrol watch so that officers can check the location as workload permits.
Q: Approximately a year and a half ago, our house was burglarized. We suspect some workers hired by our contractor might have done it. What are some tips to prevent something like this from happening?
Always check with builder associations, the Better Business Bureau and references regarding anyone you hire to work in your home. You also need to check with the builder to see if he or she is bonded for any loss or injury that might occur while working in your home.
Always remember that if you come home and discover your home has been burglarized, get out of the home and call the police from a safe location. The suspect might still be in the house.
Residential burglary is a serious problem, and the police department cannot fight it alone. Anything you can do to make forced entry into your home more difficult is a step in the right direction. Good security will protect your family and possibly save a life.
Minimum security means the prevention of entry by a burglar through any door or window except by means of destructive force. Most burglars will not break a window to enter.
Additional security means the prevention of exit by an intruder through any door except by means of destructive force. This reduces the possibility of theft of large possessions after the intruder has gained entrance through a window and is expecting to exit through a door.
The first step to improve security for your home is to first perform a thorough inspection. The Dallas Police Department has officers who will perform an inspection free of charge. Contact your local ICP officer at 214-670-7768 for information.
The exterior environment of your home can make a big difference in your ability to prevent illegal activity. Below are some tips on appearance and maintenance:
· Trees and shrubs should never block the view from your doors or windows. An overgrown landscape can provide a hiding place for an intruder who is trying to gain entrance into your home. The recommended height for shrubs is no higher than three (3) feet and trees trimmed 6-7 feet from the ground. Consider utilizing uninviting plants such as cactus, yucca or sharp-pointed leaf shrubbery in front of ground-floor windows.
· Nameplates on doors and mailboxes should have only the last name. Do not indicate your marital status or gender.
· House numbers should be seen clearly from the street. This will enable the police or fire department to locate your home more quickly.
· Keep the exterior looking clean and fresh. A well-maintained appearance might further protect your home.
· Use lighting to its best advantage. Install lighting over all entrances, as criminals do not like to be seen. Install flood lighting at all external entrances as well as courtyards, walkways, driveways and any other area as dictated by the layout of your yard.
