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Tips for making the most of Crime Prevention Month

There's nothing worse than the feeling of being ripped off -- and if you live long enough in these United States, it's unfortunately not a matter of if, but when. Except perhaps, the after-the-fact feeling one has when one realizes the theft might have been prevented, if only . . .

With that in mind, Carlsbad police are marking Crime Prevention Month by issuing some tips about how you can significantly reduce "residential" crime.

First, make the best use of natural surveillance by creating the ability to see and be seen day and night.

Use lighting to your advantage to deter crooks inside and out of the home.  Use timers or light sensors.

Make sure all entries to your home are secured via locks and hardware.

Give your home that "lived in" appearance by doing your best to make it appear someone is home all the time.

Get involved with your neighbors by teaming up to prevent crime by collaborating in a "Neighborhood Watch" program.  Your local police department can assist if you don't have one in your part of town.

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The upcoming time change is a good time to double check home security, according to Jodee Sasway, Carlsbad's crime prevention specialist.

Sasway's unit works to reduce crime by developing  programs, public education efforts and research that help identify crime trends.

Additional  tips and services information  is available at the city's Crime Prevention Web site.
 

, San Diego Crime Examiner

Steve Perez has covered crime, courts and fire calls online, in print and for broadcast. A career journalist, his work has been recognized for honors by groups ranging from the Online News Association to the Radio-TV News Association. He owns Perez.com Productions, LLC.

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