Crime Prevention

Crime Prevention

Burglary & Theft Prevention
Home Security Surveys

A home security survey from Howard County police can provide you, your family and your valuables with an appropriate level of protection to reduce the odds of burglary and theft. The survey is simple, free and can be scheduled at your convenience. Officers perform a detailed security analysis of your home and provide you with a list of recommendations. An integral part of the survey is an assessment of your personal safety habits while in the home or in your yard. To take advantage of this free service, call 410-313-4795 and leave a message. For more information, call 410-313-3758.

Safety tips for everyone

WHEN YOU GO OUT:

  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
  • If possible, carry a cell phone. Make sure it is charged, and have a back-up battery or power source in case of an emergency.
  • Make every effort to keep your car in good working order. If your car breaks down, lock your doors. Use your cell phone to call for help. Keep a blanket, warm clothes, a pair of boots and a flashlight in your car for emergencies.
  • Keep your head up, stand straight up and be confident.
  • If you must carry a purse, hold it close to your body. Put your wallet in an inside pocket.
  • Make sure someone knows where you are going and when you expect to return.
  • Whenever possible, travel with friends.
  • Avoid darkened, deserted routes, even if they are the shortest.
  • When walking, don't overburden yourself with packages that obstruct your view and make it hard to react.
  • Consider taking the elevator instead of the stairs if you are alone, especially in a parking garage.
  • Have your car or house key in hand as you approach your vehicle or home.
  • When you drive, keep doors locked and windows up. Park in well lighted, busy areas.
  • When returning to your car, look around you, look into your car, look on the passenger side floor and look in the back seat. Look at the cars parked on either side of your vehicle. If something appears suspicious, walk away and call for help.

WHEN YOU ARE HOME:

  • Use dead bolt locks on all exterior doors.
  • Keep your doors locked at all times, even when you are inside or working outdoors.
  • Protect windows and sliding glass doors with locks and other security devices.
  • Make you home appear occupied when you go out by using a timer to turn on lights and a radio.
  • Never let strangers in your home without checking their identification.
  • Install and use a door peephole.
  • Be sure your house number is clearly visible from the street.
  • Engrave valuables with your driver’s license number.

IF YOU FIND YOURSELF IN A DANGEROUS SITUATION:

  • Stay as calm as possible. Try not to panic or show any signs of anger or confusion.
  • Consider your well being as the highest priority. Don’t escalate the incident into a violent confrontation in which someone may be injured or killed.
  • If an attacker demands your purse or other valuables, don’t resist. Your life and safety are worth more than your possessions. Make a conscious effort to get an accurate description of the suspect, and call 911 immediately.