Community Safety Information

QUICK TIPS ABOUT THEFT / BURLARY

FOR CITIZENS OF ALPHARETTA

Crime CANNOT always be prevented but ways to minimize the likelihood of becoming a victim of theft / burglary are listed below:

For residential entering autos:

  • Most vehicles are broken into overnight.
  • Usually unlocked vehicles are targeted.
  • Items taken are usually money or something of easy opportunity in plain sight.

For residential burglaries:

  • Most houses are broken into during daytime hours when it is less likely that someone is home.
  • Most burglars want to avoid contact with a homeowner.
  • Intentional home invasions are rare, but they have occurred.

What you can do to protect yourself:

  • There is NOT one single thing you can do to prevent crime so the more layers of protection you have the better.
  • If possible, park in your garage and keep your garage closed and locked.
  • If you can’t park in your garage, DO NOT leave anything in your car and keep it locked.
  • Have good exterior lighting.
  • Make sure you lock ALL of your doors and windows.
  • Consider investing in surveillance cameras/ systems and video doorbells.
  • Consider investing in an alarm system AND USE IT!
  • If you have a large amount of money or jewelry, get AND USE a safe.
    • Bolt it to wall studs so it cannot be stolen easily.
    • Keep all money, jewelry, valuables of any kind, important documents etc. inside- (especially for those whose culture incorporates a large amount of gold into their celebrations, please keep it secured when not wearing it, so it is protected against theft).
  • Prior to going out of town, put your mail on hold or coordinate with a trusted neighbor to have them take all mail, packages, newspaper to their house for you. They can also keep an eye on your house while you’re away.
  • Dogs are also a great deterrent.

 

Things to avoid doing:

  • Do not advertise that you are going on vacation on social media. Do not post pictures or live stream from vacation.  Instead, post your trip after you return home.
  • If you buy something expensive such as a TV or computer, do not put the box on the curb days before your trash service comes to pick it up. Rip the box into pieces and throw it into your trash can.

Our officers are always out patrolling, but these are just some suggested proactive measures that you can take to better protect yourself.

Please remain alert to your surroundings, and if you see anything that is suspicious trust your instincts.  Report it to us on 911 or our non-emergency number 678-297-6300 option #1. 

From:  Officer Vinny Sarrantonio #339
           Alpharetta Police Department