Tips for Vacation / Trips

Thieves look for what police term "targets of opportunity." There are many things you can do to avoid becoming one of the victims, especially when you are going to be away from your home for an extended period of time.

• If you plan to be gone for a long period of time, have someone pick up your mail and newspaper, or have them stopped until you return.
• Double check second floor, garage and basement windows--areas that are often forgotten.
• Leave a car in the driveway. Have outside lights turned on and off with a timer.
• Arrange to have the yard cut and bushes trimmed.
• Have several timers attached to lights in various locations throughout the house.
• Ask neighbors to check your house regularly. Leave a number with them where you can be located. Ask them to use your garbage cans.
• Don’t tell everyone about your vacation plans.
• Don’t leave notes on your door for deliveries, friends, etc..
• If you return home and find a break-in, do not enter the house. Call police at once using a neighbor’s phone.
• Make an inventory of your property. Mark your valuables with an engraver. Use your driver’s license number (and State) as identification on your property.
• Make sure your doors and windows are locked with the deadbolt lock and auxiliary locks.

For more information about crime prevention call the Rockville City Police Department Community Services Officer 240-314-8922.