Crime Prevention Tips:

AUTO THEFT:

It happens so often that people rarely think much of it. It's as much a part of urban life as the sun coming up. Everybody knows someone who has had it happen to them, maybe it's happened to you. Each year, more than a million vehicles are stolen in the United States - about one vehicle every 30 seconds. Why? One reason is that cars are easy to steal. Even an inexperienced car thief can steal certain kinds of cars in about ten to thirty seconds. Some cars are easy to steal. Most of the time, when a juvenile commits their first felony crime, it is usually the theft of a car or truck. Lastly, and one of the biggest reasons, is that most victims make it easy for the auto thief to steal their car. For example, nationwide investigators find that:

• 31% of all vehicle owners don't lock their doors

• 80% of the vehicles that were stolen were left unlocked

• 11% of owners admit that they sometimes leave their keys in the ignition

• 40% of all car thefts actually had the keys left in the ignition

Facts About Auto Theft:

• The most frequent locations of auto theft are places where there are large numbers of cars parked, like apartments complexes and shopping centers.

• The most frequent times cars are reported stolen was from 10 pm to 7 am

• The most common stolen vehicle is General Motors manufactured vehicles.

What You Can Do:

No amount of prevention can guarantee that your car will not be stolen, but by taking a few simple precautions you can greatly reduce the opportunity for the possible offender, and of becoming another auto theft victim.

• Close your windows, lock your doors, conceal your valuables and take your keys

• Use a steering column locking device

• Engrave your vehicle identification number (VIN) on your windshield

• Use an alarm that shuts off your electrical or fuel systems when activated

• Park your car in well lighted, well traveled areas

• Put all packages out of sight (in trunk or compartments)

• Install a hidden ignition switch

• Park you car in your garage at home

• Do not store spare keys in or around your vehicle

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BICYCLE SAFETY:
Each year over 1000 bicyclists are fatally injured and over ½ million bicycle related injuries are treated in hospital emergency rooms. Males are five times more likely to be killed as bicyclists than females. More than half of all bicyclist deaths occur to school age youth (ages 5-17). Most bicyclist deaths result from bicycle-motor vehicle collisions. But injuries can happen anywhere - in parks, bike paths, and driveways and often do not involve motor vehicles. Head injuries are the most serious injury type and is the most common cause of deaths among bicyclists. The most severe injuries are those to the brain that cause permanent damage. Studies have proven that bicycle helmet use can significantly reduce head injuries.

Buy your child an approved bike helmet. Purchase one that has a sticker inside certifying the helmet meets standards of the Snell Memorial Foundation and/or the American National Standard Institute (ANSI Z90.4). Let your child help pick out the helmet color and design. They will be more apt to wear it willingly if they like how it looks and feels. If you are a rider, buy one for yourself too, and set a good example by wearing it. Also encourage your child's friends to wear helmets.

Make certain your child's bike is the correct size, safely maintained, and has reflectors. A general rule to follow if not to allow children under age nine to ride their bikes in the street. They are not able to identify and adjust to the many dangerous traffic situations.

Teach your child to always stop and look left-right-left before entering the road. This is a good pedestrian safety practice, too, for crossing the street.

If a bicyclist rides in the road, the cyclist must obey traffic laws that apply to motor vehicle operators. Instruct you child on the bicycle rules of the road. Driver licensing agencies and highway departments are good sources for booklets that explain bicycle safety rules. Enroll your child in a bike safety education program by contacting your neighborhood recreation center or the police department.

Never allow your child to ride at night or with audio headphones. Stress the need to ride alert since most driver so not see riders. Bicyclists should ride single file on the right side and signal their intentions to other road users.

How To Fit a Bike Helmet...

• Place helmet level on the head. It should be snug and cover the forehead

• Adjust the helmet straps so when buckled it cannot move from side to side or back and forth

• There should be about one finger width of space between the chin and chin strap

How To Fit A Bike...

• Lay your arm along the top bar with the elbow touching the seat. The fingertips should just reach the handlebars

• Straddle the bike. There should be about one inch between the top bar and your crotch

• Adjust the seat so you can sit on the seat and balance on you toes

Be Seen...
Equip your bike with reflectors, a white headlight and a bell or horn. Bright colored clothing and reflective material help bicyclists to be seen more easily. 

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HALLOWEEN SAFETY

• Trick-or-Treat when it is still light outside

• Plan your route with your family ahead of time

• Pick streets that are well-lighted

• Trick-or-treat with a parent, older brother or sister, or with a group of children if someone older can't go with you

• Carry a flashlight and use retro-reflective tape on your costume so you can see and be seen easily

• Wear a costume that makes it easy for you to walk

• A face mask will keep you from seeing well. Why not use make-up instead? If you must wear a mask, take it off before you cross the street

• Cross at corners and use marked crosswalks whenever possible. Do not cross the street between parked cars

• If there is no sidewalk, walk with the road on your right

• Wait until you get home to sort, check and eat your treats

• PARENTS, please check you children's treats before allowing them to eat it

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INTERNET SAFETY: A GUIDE FOR PARENTS:

While on-line computer exploration opens a world of possibilities for children, expanding their horizons and exposing them to different cultures and ways of life, they can be exposed to dangers as they hit the road exploring the information highway. There are individuals who attempt to sexually exploit children through the use of on-line services and the Internet.

Some of these individuals gradually seduce their targets through the use of attention, affection, kindness, and even gifts. These individuals are often willing to devote considerable amounts of time, money and energy in this process. They listen to and empathize with the problems of children. They will be aware of the latest music, hobbies, and interests of children.

These individuals attempt to gradually lower children's inhibitions by slowly introducing sexual context and content into their conversations. There are other individuals, however, who immediately engage in sexually explicit conversation with children.

Some offenders primarily collect and trade child-pornographic images, while others seek face-to-face meetings with children via on-line contacts. It is important for parents to understand that children can be indirectly victimized through conversation, i.e. "chat," as well as the transfer of sexually explicit information and material.

Computer-sex offenders may also be evaluating children they come in contact with on-line for future face-to-face contact and direct victimization. Parents and children should remember that a computer-sex offender can be any age or sex – the person does not have to fit the caricature of a dirty, unkempt, older man wearing a raincoat to be someone who could harm a child.

What Are Signs That Your Child Might Be At Risk On-line...

• Your child spends large amounts of time on-line, especially at night

• You find pornography on your child's computer

• Your child receives phone calls from people you don't know or is making calls, sometimes long distance, to numbers you don't recognize

• Your child receives mail, gifts, or packages from someone you don't know

• Your child turns the computer monitor off or quickly changes the screen on the monitor when you come into the room

• Your child becomes withdrawn from the family

• Your child is using an on-line account belonging to someone else

What Should You Do If You Suspect Your Child is Communicating With A Sexual Predator On-line...

• Consider talking openly with your child about your suspicions

• Review what is on your child's computer

• Use caller ID service to determine who is calling your child

• Devices can be purchased that show telephone numbers that have been dialed from your home

• Monitor your child's access to all types of live electronic communications (i.e., chat rooms, instant messages, Internet relay chat, etc.), and monitor your child's e-mail

• Should any of the following situations arise in your household, via the Internet or on-line service, you should immediately contact your local or state law enforcement agency, the FBI, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children:

• Your child or anyone in the household has received child pornography.

• Your child has been sexually solicited by someone who knows that your child is under 18 years of age

• Your child has received sexually explicit images from someone that knows your child is under the age of 18

What Can You Do To Minimize The Chances Of An On-line Exploiter Victimizing Your Child...

• Communicate, and talk to your child about sexual victimization and potential on-line danger

• Spend time with your children on-line. Have them teach you about their favorite on-line destinations

• Keep the computer in a common room in the house, NOT in your child's bedroom

• Utilize parental controls provided by your Internet service provider and/or blocking software

• Always maintain access to your child's on-line account and randomly check his/her e-mail

• Teach your child the responsible use of the resources on-line

• Find out what computer safeguards are utilized by your child's school, the public library, and at the homes of your child's friends

• Understand, even if your child was a willing participant in any form of sexual exploitations, that he/she is not at fault; he/she is the victim

• Instruct you children:

• To never arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone they met on-line

• To never upload (post) pictures of themselves onto the Internet or on-line service to people they do not personally know

• To never give out identifying information such as their name, home address, school name, or telephone number

• To never download pictures from an unknown source, as there is a good chance there could be sexually explicit images

• To never respond to messages or bulletin board postings that are suggestive, obscene, belligerent, or harassing

• That whatever they are told on-line may or may not be true

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How to avoid become the victim of an Assault:

IN YOUR CAR:

• If at all possible, carry a cell phone with you in the car

• When entering or exiting your car, always lock all doors

• Before entering your car, look inside and have your keys in your hand and ready to unlock the door

• Never pick up hitchhikers

• If a stranger offers help, do not get out of your car. Roll down the window far enough so you can ask the person to call for assistance

• Drive with all your doors locked

• Do not stop to help a stranded motorist. Go to the nearest phone booth and call for assistance

• If you suspect you're being followed, drive to the nearest gas station, police station, or fire station and blow your horn. Try to get the car's license plate number and description

• At night, always park in well lighted areas. Be alert and careful when using parking garages

• When your vehicle is parked, don't leave anything of value in plain sight. Remove these items by taking them in your house or putting them into the locked trunk. Purses, brief cases, money, packages, cell phones, etc, make it enticing for the person looking to break into a car.

ON THE STREET:

• Avoid walking, jogging, or biking alone at night unless absolutely necessary.

• Plan the safest route to your destination. Choose well lighted busy streets and avoid short cuts through parks, vacant lots or unlit areas.

• Vary your route and schedule.

• Always walk near the curb and away from alleyways and doorways.

• Walk facing traffic so you can see approaching vehicles.

• Consider not wearing headphones while out walking or jogging. You cannot hear what is going on around you.

• If you suspect you're being followed by someone on foot, cross the street and head for the nearest well lighted, populated area. Walk quickly or run to a house or store to call police.

• If you need to attract attention, scream "fire!"

• Do not use automated teller machines (ATM's) at night. Use them during the day. Have your card ready and scan the surrounding area before approaching the machine.

• Do not overburden yourself with packages or a bulky purse.

• Always remain alert to your surroundings and walk with purpose, making quick eye contact with everyone that you pass by.

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SEXUAL ASSAULT:
Sexual assault is a crime of violence, not sexual passion. It is meant to degrade, humiliate, and control. The attacker can be a stranger or someone known and trusted. It can happen to anyone, at any time, at any place. The trauma of being assaulted is a shock from which many victims never fully recover.

No matter which form it takes, sexual assault is as much a problem today as it has been throughout history. While those most at risk are people between the ages of 10 and 29, it can happen to anyone at any age.

There is not portrait of a "typical" rapist. These men, like their victims, are all ages and come from all racial and social backgrounds. They can be college students, married men, doctors, teachers, or unemployed transients. Most are not crazy or deranged men looking for sex. In fact the majority of offenders are highly intelligent, married men with families and have ready access to consensual sex; but they rape to control, dominate, and humiliate the victim.

The information listed below provides suggestions on how to possibly avoid dangerous situations, and ways to resist if threatened or attacked. They are not a guarantee that you will never be a victim of an sexual assault, attack, and as a result of this, and injury. They are intended to reduce opportunity for a crime to be committed.

MYTH: Sexual assault is a crime of passion and lust...Sexual assault is a crime of violence. Assailants seek to dominate, humiliate and punish their victims.

MYTH: You cannot be assaulted against your will...Assailants overpower their victim with the threat of violence or with actual violence. In cases of acquaintance rape or incest, an assailant often uses the victim's trust of the assailant to isolate the victim.

MYTH: A person who has really been assaulted will be hysterical...Survivors exhibit a spectrum of emotional responses to the assault: calm, hysteria, laughter, guilt, apathy, shock. Each survivor copes with the trauma of the assault in a different way.

MYTH: Sexual assault is an impulsive act...Seventy-five (75%) percent of all assaults are planned in advance. When three or more assailants are involved, 90% are planned. If two assailants are involved, 83%. With one assailant, 58% are planned.

MYTH: Assailants are usually crazed psychopaths who do not know their victims...As many as 80% of all assaults involve either a known acquaintance, or someone the victim has had contact with, but does not know personally.

MYTH: Gang rape is rare...In 43% of all reported cases, more than one assailant was involved.

MYTH: Many women claim they have been sexually assaulted because they want revenge upon the man they accuse... Only 4% - 6% of sexual assault cases are based on false accusations. This percentage of unsubstantiated cases is the same as with many other reported crimes.

MYTH: Persons who dress or act in a sexy way are asking to be sexually assaulted...Many convicted sexual assault assailants are unable to remember what their victims looked like or were wearing.

MYTH: All women secretly want to be raped... While women and men may fantasize about being overpowered during sexual relations, it is usually with a person of their choosing, who they trust. They are in control of the fantasy. No one wants the physical and emotional pain caused by a sexual assault.

MYTH: Only young, pretty women are assaulted...There is no such thing as a "typical victim." Both men and women are assaulted by both male and female assailants. Victims have ranged in age from newborns to 100 years old.

MYTH: It is impossible to sexually assault a man...Men fall victim for the same reasons as women; they are overwhelmed by threats or acts of physical and emotional violence. Also, most sexual assaults that involve a male victim are gang assaults, by other males.

MYTH: If you do not struggle or use physical force to resist you have not been sexually assaulted... If you are forced to have sex without your consent, you have been assaulted whether or not a struggle was involved.

How To Reduce Your Risk of Becoming A Sexual Assault Victim:
While statistics say that most sexual assaults are premeditated, in some instances it is a "crime of opportunity," such as a date rape. The victim and offender, for whatever reason, are at the same place at the same time. Whether the assault is one of opportunity or premeditation, there are simple precautions a person can follow to reduce, avoid, and even eliminate their chances of becoming a victim.

While Driving:

• Carry a cellular phone with you

• Keep your car in good working order and the gas tank at least half full

• Park in well-lighted areas and lock the doors, even if you'll only be gone a short time

• Before returning to your car look around the parking lot for suspicious persons

• When you return to your car have your key ready and check the front and rear seats and floor before getting in

• Drive with all the doors locked

• Never pick up hitchhikers

• If your car breaks down, put the hood up, lock the doors, and put on the flashers. Use flares if you have them and tie a white cloth to the antenna. If someone stops to help, don't get out of the car, but roll down the window slightly and ask the person to call the police or a tow service for you

• If you see another motorist in trouble, don't stop. Help by going to a telephone and calling the police for assistance

• Exercise extra caution when using underground and enclosed parking garages. Try not to go alone

• If you are being followed, don't drive home. Go to the nearest police or fire station and honk your horn. Or drive to an open gas station or other business where you can safely call the police. Don't leave your car unless you are certain you can get inside the building safely. Try to obtain license plate number and description of the car following you.

While At Home:

• Make sure all windows and doors in your home can be locked securely, particularly sliding glass doors. Use the locks. Keep entrances well-lighted.

• Install a peephole in the door and always use it when someone knocks.

• Check the identification of an sales or service person before letting them in. If in any doubt, do not open door to them.

• Don't let any stranger into your home when you're alone - no matter what the reason or how dire the emergency is supposed to be. Offer to make an emergency phone call while they wait outside.

• Get to know your neighbors - someone you can turn to if you're worried.

• If you come home alone and find a door or window open or signs of forced entry, do not go in. Go to the nearest phone and call the police.

While Walking:

• Be alert to your surroundings and the people around you. Keep your head up and look alert.

• Stay in well-lighted areas.

• Walk confidently at a steady pace on the side of the street facing traffic.

• Walk close to the curb. Avoid doorways, bushes, and alleys.

• Wear clothes and shoes that give you freedom of movement. If you wear high heels at work, carry them with you and wear athletic shoes to work. You can change when you get there.

• Don't walk alone at night if possible. If you have to, stay alert.

• Be careful when people stop you for directions. Always reply from a distance, and never get too close to the car. If you are in trouble, attract help any way you can. Yell something other people will understand, "Help", "Police", "Fire!"

If You Are Attacked:

• Keep your head. Stay as calm as possible, think rationally and evaluate your resources and options.

• It may be more advisable to submit (this does not mean you consent) than resist and risk severe injury or death. Everyone has different strengths and abilities. You will have to make this decision based on the circumstances. But, don't resist if the attacker has a weapon.

• Keep assessing the situation as it is happening. If one strategy doesn't work, try another.

• Possible options in addition to nonresistance are negotiating, stalling for time, distracting the assailant and fleeing to a safe place, verbal assertiveness, screaming to attract attention and physical resistance.

• If you think fighting back/struggling may discourage the attack, remember you must hurt the attacker bad enough to create the time you need to escape. Consider scratching with your fingernails, biting, poking in the eyes, kicking in the knee or groin, hitting on the nose, or jabbing the eyes or throat.

• Weapons such as guns, knives, and chemical sprays can easily be turned against you unless you are trained to, and are not afraid to use them. You must be prepared to possibly injure or kill the attacker.

• If you are determined to carry some type of weapon, a chemical spray (such as pepper spray) is your best choice. It's non-lethal if used against you. Remember, you already have weapons with you, your keys, pens, pencils, etc. You also have your most important weapon, your brain.

• You may be able to turn the attacker off with bizarre behavior such as throwing up, urinating, or defecating.

• REMEMBER, THAT WHATEVER YOU DO, THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IS YOUR SURVIVAL.

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WHILE AWAY ON VACATION:

 The Post Falls Police Department provides a drive by service. If you are going on vacation or are going to be gone for an extended period of time contact the Police Department and we will drive by your home frequently during your absence and contact you if a problem arises. 

• Most important, make your house appear that someone is always home.

• Do not stop your mail and newspaper. Have a trusted neighbor pick them up each day.

• Have your blinds and curtains open during the day, and closed at night.

• On garbage pickup day, have a neighbor take out your trash containers.

• If you have a second car, leave it in the driveway. A car in the driveway tells the potential burglar that someone may be home.

• If you have a garage door with an electric opener, unplug it and also make sure that you lock it.

• Use timers on lights, radios, tv's, etc., and set them to go on and off at different times.

• Turn off the ringers on your phones. Most phones come with switches to either lower the volume of ringers or turn them off all together.

• If you're going to be gone for any length of time, make arrangements to have your lawn mowed.

HOME SECURITY:
Don't welcome a burglar into your home. Most residential burglars devote little if any time to the advance planning of any specific break-in. Their crimes are, for the most part, crime or opportunity. They pick what appears to be an easy mark. If their advance checking and closer examination reveal a greater risk than anticipated, they move onto a safer target. The more you can do to keep your home from looking like an easy target, the safer you are. There are also many steps that you can take to minimize your loss and improve your chances of recovery if a break-in occur.

The first step in improving overall security is to take a hard look at the security measures already in use in your home. Look at your house at night as well as in the daytime. Your home cannot be adequately protected until these weaknesses are corrected.

A few alterations to your landscaping can be enough to put off potential offenders. To avoid getting caught, intruders look for property they can get into and out of quickly. Their ideal target is a house surrounded by large hedges and shrubs, which hamper visibility from the street and neighbors houses.

LANDSCAPING AND YARD SECURITY:
Trim shrubbery and trees so doors and windows are visible to neighbors, and from the street. Trimmed landscaping should not provide concealment for criminals. If you have a second floor, prune trees so they can't help a thief climb in second floor windows. Place trellises where they can't be used as ladders to gain entry to the upper floors.

• Ground plants (shrubbery and bushes) within four (4) feet of any sidewalks, driveways, doors or gates, should be maintained at a height of not more than three (3) feet.

• Ground plants located between four (4) and eight (8) feet of any sidewalks, driveways, doors, or gates should be maintained at a height of not more than four (4) feet.

• Ground plants under windows should be maintained at a height that is below the window sill.

• Trees should be trimmed so that the lower branches are more than seven (7) feet off the ground.

Place large gauge gravel on the ground near windows. The noise caused by intruders walking on it can become a psychological deterrent. DO NOT place river rocks or other items near glass windows or doors. These can be used by the burglar to break glass.

Plant spiny (thorny) plants along fences and under windows. Such plants will discourage even the most nimble intruder. Protecting with spiny plants is as effective as the use of barbed wire, and a lot more attractive.

Street Numbers:
Street number should be easily visible from the street. Critical time can be saved by emergency responders when the street address for the house is visible from a distance.

On your house:

• Use numbers made of reflective materials, or make sure that color of numbers contrasts with background color. Numbers should be at least three (3) inches high. Try to avoid using numbers written in script. These are difficult to read from the street.

• Keep numbers new and clean and replace when necessary.

• The numbers should be placed under a light and near the front door or garage entrance.

Limited or Direct Access to Yards and Store Rooms:
Intruders look for no, or few obstacles blocking quick exits. Fences prevent burglars from carrying away large items if the gates are locked. Gate should be lock at all times, even when you are home.

Ladders and tools should be stored in a garage or storage shed, and these areas should be locked.

Landscaping should be also be designed to control access to your property. Proper barriers make the person with criminal intent feel uncomfortable as he or she approaches your home or business.

EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR LIGHTING:
It is know fact, that good lighting is a deterrent to crime. While any lighting will help reduce your risk of becoming a burglary victim, the proper lights, used correctly will be the most effective deterrent to criminal activity.

Exterior:
Exterior lights are important, especially near doors and in the rear of the house, where intruders do most of their work. All sides of your home should be protected be security lighting that is located high out of reach, and is vandal resistant.

Lighting in carports and garages is critical. For garages, an automatic garage opener is the best choice. Almost every garage door opener made today has a light that comes on when the opener is activated, lighting the garage interior. In carports, it is best to either leave a light on, have a light on a timer, or have a light connected to a motion sensor or hot electric cell.

A style of light that is used on the exterior is a motion detector type of fixture. The advantage to this type of light, especially in the back yard, is that the light warns the resident that someone is in their yard. While there is a concern that dogs, cats, or birds will trigger the sensor and cause the lights to come on, if the resident sets the sensitivity of the sensor correctly this will not be a problem. In the front yard, any type of lighting will be effective, as long the lighting pattern covers the entire front and sides of the house. Sensor lighting will be effective, but in more prone to "false alarms" caused by things like people walking down the sidewalk, or children playing.

Interior
When residents go out for an evening, they usually leave on their "burglar beacon". A burglar beacon is a small light that is left on so they don't walk into a dark house when they come home. These are lights like the one above the kitchen sink or stove, the hallway light, or a light in the corner of the living room. Unfortunately for the criminal, these lights are a signal that no one in home. If you go out for an evening leave several lights on, and radio. When you go on vacation put at least two lights, in different parts of the house, and a radio on timers. Regardless of whether you are on vacation, or just gone for the evening, from the outside your house should look as if someone is home.

HOUSE AND GARAGE DOORS:
Entry doors should be solid core wood (at least 1 3/4" inches thick) or metal wrapped. Your door should fit it's frame tightly, with no more than 1/8" inch clearance between the door and the frame. If the gap is too big, replace the door or bolt with a sturdy metal strip to the door edge. You will boost our protection, and save energy too.

Most hollow core doors can be easily broken through. If the door is flimsy or weak, or doesn't fit securely into the frame, it offers little protection, no matter what locks you use.

Doors with decorative glass panels or windows are easy marks. It takes only seconds to break the glass and unlock the door. If you do not want to replace such doors, install a break-resistant plastic panel, such as Lexan, or decorative grille over the glass. Attach the grill with special non-removable screws.

LOCKS, STRIKE PLATES, AND HINGES:

Locks/Deadbolts:
The "lock-in-knob" offers you privacy and convenience but it does not offer sufficient security from intruders. In fact many "lock-in-knob" locks can be opened by using a simple credit card. You may have privacy, but you don't have adequate security.

All exterior doors require the use of a deadbolt lock. When you turn the key the locking mechanism slides a strong metal bolt from the door into the door's frame.

When you buy a deadbolt lock, MAKE SURE:

• The bolt extends at least one (1") inch into the front edge of the door.

• The strike plate is attached through the trim to the door frame with screws at least three (3") inches long.

• It has a rotation case hardened shroud that prevents it from being twisted off with a pair of pliers or other tools.

The Two Most Common Types of Deadbolt Locks:
Single Cylinder Deadbolt Lock – Have a thumb turn on the interior side. They are convenient to use and may speed up the exit process in the event of fire. If used near a window they can be opened easily by breaking the window and reaching through. This type of deadbolt lock does not prevent the burglar, once inside, from taking your property out through the door.

Double Cylinder Deadbolt Lock – Utilizes keys on both sides of the lock. This type of lock should be considered if there is glass window within 40" inches (arms reach) of the lock. However, this type of lock does present a potential fire escape hazard. This type of deadbolt lock can delay a burglar that wants to use the door to remove your property from you home. If this lock is used, make sure the key is not left in the inside part of the lock. All members (adults and children) of the house need to know where the key is kept and also how to use it in order to get out of the house.

Keys Control:
As many as half of all burglaries take place without forced entry. Many times the burglar uses a key. Be sure your keys don't fall into the wrong hands.

• Never carry identification on your key ring or holder.

• Re-key all locks when you move into a new house or apartment.

• Know who has keys to your home. Do not give keys to maintenance or delivery people. If you must leave a key behind, leave it with a trusted neighbor. Make sure that each member of your family knows where his or her key is.

• Never hide a key outside. Burglars know all the hiding places.

• Do not hang keys on hooks within plain view inside your house.

Strike Plates
The strike plate is attached to the door frame with screws. The metal bolt of the deadbolt lock slides into the strike plate to secure the door soundly to the door frame.

A high security strike plate is required to keep the metal bolt from being kicked from the door frame when locked. A high security strike plate should have at least four (4) screws that are a minimum of three (3") inches long.

Hinges:
Hinges are often installed with the same 3/4" inch screws as the common strike plates. Replace these with three (3") inch fully threaded screws so the hinges are anchored to the sub frame.

In some cases the hinges are installed in such a manner that the hinge pins are exposed to the exterior and an intruder may attempt to remove the pins in an effort to gain entry.

Hinges can be pinned by installing a partially threaded screw into the frame side of the hinge. The unthreaded portion of the screw is left exposed and the head of the screw is cut off. A corresponding hole is drilled into the door and hinge on the opposite side, so when the door is closed the exposed portion of the screw fits in to the door. This will prevent the door from being lifted out.

ARCADIA DOORS AND SLIDING GLASS WINDOWS:
People often install sturdy locks on their front doors but leave arcadia (sliding glass) doors and sliding glass windows wide open to illegal entry. Burglars look for both of these because they are easy to open. Usually, arcadia doors and windows are more secluded than a front door, making a perfect place for burglars to hide and enter. The two factors to be protected against are:

Prying the lock:
Most arcadia doors and sliding windows come equipped with a lock that is easily pried open. A supplemental lock should be installed.

Broomsticks, charlie bars (both should fit snug), and finger operated locks provide some protection.

Key locking devices are much preferred because they can prevent the burglars from using the door or window to remove stolen property.

There are several types of supplemental locks available. Keyed lock may be keyed alike with other entry lock sets and deadbolt locks. Check with your locksmith or hardware store and select a sturdy type that most suits your home.

Lifting Out:
Many arcadia doors and sliding windows can be lifted out of their tracks from the outside. Two sheet metal screws placed in the track above the removable part of the door or window can prevent it from being removed. Adjust the screws so that the doors or windows will just clear underneath them as you slide the window.

Drill a hole and insert a nail through the inside frame and part way through the metal door frame. You can remove the nail but the burglar cannot. Be careful when you drill. If you drill too close to the glass, you could possibly break it.

Double Hung Windows
To secure a double hung window, drill a downward sloping hole into the top of the bottom window, and through that into the bottom of the top window. A pin can now be inserted, locking the window shut. Again, be careful when you drill. If you drill too close to the glass, you could possibly break it. If you pin your windows, make sure that pins can easily be removed and that all people (adults and children) living in the house can reach and remove them.

SECURITY SYSTEMS:
Do you keep extremely valuable or sentimental property/possessions in your house? Do you often leave your house unattended for more than a few hours everyday, or do you want more protection and peace of mind? These can be some reasons to invest in an alarm system.

The FBI has announced that over a ten year period, an average of one (1) of every four (4) residences throughout the United States will be burglarized.

Many quality alarm systems are available on the market. Before you purchase a security system, you should have in mind what kind of system you want. This will prevent buying more equipment than you actually need. Read as much about different brands and types of systems as you can. Talk to friends and neighbors that have alarm systems. We recommend that you speak to at least three security companies about their product and service prior to purchasing any alarm system.

Choosing Your System

• How do I know the right company to choose when considering the purchase of an alarm system?

• How much protection do I need?

• How much should I expect to pay?

• Have I done other security prevention things first that may make buying a alarm system unnecessary?

Tips to Help When Choosing an Alarm Company

• Ask about insurance...general liability, workman's compensation, and errors and omissions. You have every right to ask for certificates of insurance for these items. This protects you, because if the company is not properly protected, the claim or losses may fall on you.

• Ask for the company's city business license, which allows them to do business in your community.

• Ask for local referrals of other customers in your area that have had systems installed like the one being proposed to you.

• Check your contract! Review carefully what you sign, make sure everything is agreed upon in writing. Know what the warranty period is and what is included in the warranty.

• Remember, an adequate design should consider the structure, the lifestyle, the perceived needs and the budget of the occupant.

• Ask if the company has been established for three to five years.

• Ask if it is going to be monitored locally or outside of the state of Virginia.

• Be sure the company does the entire installation and does not subcontract work out.

The Post Falls Police Department does not prefer one alarm company over another nor do they recommend companies, brands, or types of security devices of any kind.

OTHER HOME SECURITY INFORMATION:

Home Inventory List:
Keep a "Personal Property Inventory List" in a safe place (fire proof safe, safe deposit). This may help you recover stolen property in the event of a theft of burglary. This helps to recover stolen in the event of a theft of burglary.

The more complete your inventory list the better. In case of a loss by causes other than theft it may help you establish your loss with your insurance company. As an example, if you have a fire in your residence and lose a couch, and end table, and a portion of your carpet in our front room, the accurate listing of when and how much you paid for the items will assist you in establishing your loss.

On the inventory list indicate the room the property was located in. Make the description of the item as complete as possible. Include the manufacturer model and serial numbers, size, color, and material the item is made of. This list might include damage marks, repairs, etc. Make sure to list the manufacture's serial number on the list. Do not confuse the model with the serial number.

If you mark your property with a personal number, use a special number or code that you will remember easily. It is not recommended that you use your social security number. Always start your personal number with the two letter abbreviation of the state that you reside in. For example, you may use, "ID123ABC". 

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Safety Tips at Home:

• If you are bothered by obscene or threatening phone calls, hang up immediately then call the police non-emergency number (773-3517) to report it.

• Always be observant of your surroundings. Would be offenders look for that unsuspecting victim.

• If you live alone don't use your marital status or first name on your telephone listing or on your mail box.

• Get to know your neighbors. They are your single best means of safety and security when it comes to looking out for your property.

• When returning home, or to your car, have your keys in your hand so that you can let yourself in without delay.

• If you think you're being followed, don't go home! Go to a police or fire station, or an open business. If you go to a business, call the police from there to advise them what is happening.

• Park your car in well lighted areas. Lock the doors and take the keys with you.

• If you think a prowler is outside, take no direct action yourself. Lock all doors and windows and call the police immediately by dialing 911.

Do's:

• Use the security devices you have, ie. lights, locks, etc.

• Leave lights on inside and out when you go out for the evening.

• Have all emergency (police, fire, medical, poison, work) phone numbers next to your phone.

• (Women) Carry only what is absolutely necessary in your purse. If you can avoid it at all, do not carry one. Carry money and credit cards in front pants pockets.

• Check with the manage before letting repair personnel into your apartment.

• Close your drapes/blinds in the evening hours.

• Be suspicious of people loitering around your house, apartment complex, or the parking lot. Trust you instincts.

• If it seems suspicious, strange, or peculiar call the police.

Don'ts:

• Don't keep large sums of money in your home. If you do, keep it in a locked fire proof safe.

• Don't carry large sums of money while you are out.

• Don't let strangers in to use your telephone. Have them wait outside and you make the call.

• Don't undress in front of open windows.

• Don't leave notes on your door.

• Don't hide a key outside near the door. Leave one with a trusted neighbor.

• Don't display expensive equipment (computers, stereo systems, etc.) or items in plain view through your window.

• Don't use your name or telephone number on your answering machine, and do not state that "We are not home now".

• Don't answer personal questions on telephone surveys.

• Don't admit service representatives from utilities unless you have an appointment or can verify their authenticity.

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Suspicious Persons:

• Going door to door in residential area – Especially suspicious if, after few houses are visited, one or more of the subjects goes into a back or side yard. More suspicious if another remains in the front when this occurs. Possible significance: "Casing" for a house to burglarize, burglary in progress, soliciting violation, or a trespass.

• Waiting in front of a house or business – Particularly suspicious if owners are absent, or, if it's a business, and the establishment is closed. Possible significance: Lookout for a burglary in progress inside.

• Forcing entrance to or tampering with a residence, vehicle, etc. – Suspicious under almost any circumstances. Possible significance: Burglary, theft, malicious mischief, or trespass in progress.

• Non-resident going into back or side yard of house – Suspicious under almost any circumstances. Possible significance: Possible burglary or trespass in progress.

• Person Running – Especially if something of value is being carried. Possible significance: Fleeing the scene of a crime.

• Exhibiting unusual mental or physical symptoms – Do not approach these people. Possible significance: Possibly injured, under the influence of drugs, or otherwise needing medical or psychiatric assistance.

• Carrying property – Suspicious depending upon the circumstances. For example, if at an unusual hour or in an unusual place, and if the property is not wrapped as if just purchased. Possible significance: Subject leaving the scene of a robbery, burglary, or theft.

• Excessive human traffic to and from a certain residence – Not suspicious unless it occurs on a daily or very regular basis, especially during late or unusual hours. Possible significance: Vice or narcotics activities, or a "fence" operation.

Suspicious Vehicles:

• Certain moving vehicles – Especially if slow moving and without lights, or if the course followed appears aimless or repetitive. This is suspicious in any location, but particularly in the area of schools, parks, or playgrounds. Possible significance: "Casing" for places to rob or burglarize. Possible drug pusher or sex offender.

• Certain parked, or occupied vehicles – May contain one or more persons, especially significant if observed at an unusual hour. Possible significance: Lookout for a burglary or robbery in progress. True even if occupants appear to be lovers.

• Vehicles being loaded with valuables – Suspicious if parked in front of a closed business or unattended residence, even if the vehicle is a legitimate looking commercial unit, possibly even bearing a sign identifying it as a repair vehicle, moving van, etc. Possible significance: Burglary or other theft in progress.

• Abandoned vehicle – Possible stolen car

• Vehicle containing weapons – Suspicious under almost any circumstances. Possible significance: Owner may engage in criminal activity.

• Other unusual activity involving vehicles – Persons attempting to forcibly enter a locked vehicle, especially at night or in a parking lot. Possible significance: Burglary, theft, or malicious mischief in progress.

• Persons detaching mechanical parts or accessories from a vehicle – Suspicious especially at night in the street or in a parking lot. Possible significance: Theft or malicious mischief in progress.

• Apparent business transactions conducted from a vehicle – Suspicious especially if around schools or parks, and if juveniles or females. Possible significance: Drug transactions, or kidnaping.

• Objects thrown from a vehicle – Suspicious especially while traveling at high rate of speed. Possible significance: Disposal of contraband, littering, throwing objects from a moving vehicle is a violation.

• Property in vehicles – Not suspicious unless the property is not normally found in vehicles, especially if observed at unusual hours or if TV sets, stereos, unmounted tape decks, or auto parts are involved. Possible significance: Stolen property.

Other Suspicious Situations:

• Property in homes, private garages, storage areas, etc. – Suspicious if accumulations are large or otherwise unusual (such as several TV sets in a garage) and if the items are in good condition, but are not in use. Possible significance: Stolen property.

• Property carried by persons on foot – Normally not suspicious unless at an unusual hour or in an unusual place. Especially questionable if the person is running. May be significant if the property is not wrapped as if just purchased. Possible significance: Stolen property.

• Property being removed from or being placed into vehicles or buildings – Not suspicious unless unusual hour or places are involved, for instance, from closed businesses or residences whose owners are known to be absent. Possible significance: Burglary or theft in progress.

• Open or broken doors or windows – At closed businesses or residences whose owners are temporarily absent. Possible significance: Burglary in progress or scene of completed burglary/crime.

• Unusual Noises, etc. – Gunshots, screaming, sounds of fighting/combat, abnormally barking dog, anything suggestive of foul play, danger, or illegal activity.

• Call the police immediately!

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Senior Citizen Personal Safety Awareness


The most rapidly growing segment of the American population is senior citizens. Although national surveys indicate that senior citizens are the least victimized segment of society, seniors exhibit the most fear of crime.

As people grow older, their chances of being victims of crime decrease dramatically. But a lifetime of experience coupled with the physical problems associated with aging, often make older Americans fearful. Though they're on the lookout constantly for physical attack and burglary, they're not as alert to frauds and con games - in reality the greatest crime threat to seniors' well-being and trust. Want to conquer fear and prevent crime? Take these common-sense precautions.   

Be Alert When Out And About 

• Go with friends or family, not alone.

• Carry your purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.

• Don't carry credit cards you don't need or large amounts of cash.

• Use direct deposit for Social Security and other regular checks.

• Whether you're a passenger or driver, keep car doors locked. Be particularly alert in parking lots and garages. Park near an entrance.

• Sit close to the driver or near the exit while riding the bus, train, or subway.

• If someone or something makes you uneasy, trust your instincts and leave.

Make Your Home Safe And Secure 

• Install good locks on doors and windows. Use them! Don't hide keys in mailboxes and planters or under doormats. Instead, leave an extra set of keys with a neighbor or friend.

• Ask for photo identification from service or delivery people before letting them in. If you are the least bit worried, call the company to verify.

• Be sure your street address is large, clear of obstruction, and well lighted so police and other emergency personnel can find your home quickly.

• Consider a home alarm system that provides emergency monitoring for burglary, fire, and medical emergencies.

Watch Out For Con Artists 

• Don't fall for anything that sounds too good to be true - a free vacation, sweepstakes prizes, cures for cancer and arthritis, a low risk, high yield investment scheme, free money.

• Never give your credit card, phone card, Social Security, or bank account number to anyone over the phone. It's illegal for telemarketers to ask for these numbers to verify a prize or gift.

• Don't let anyone rush you into signing anything - an insurance policy, a sales agreement, a contract. Read it carefully and have someone you trust check it over.

• Beware of individuals claiming to represent companies, consumer organizations, or government agencies that offer to recover lost money from fraudulent telemarketers for a fee.

• If you're suspicious, check it out with the police, the Better Business Bureau, or your local consumer protection office. Call the National Consumers League Fraud Information Center at 1-800-876-7060.

Get Involved In The Community 

• Report any crime or suspicious activities to law enforcement.

• Join a Neighborhood Watch to look out for each other and help the police.

• Work to change conditions that hurt your neighborhood. Volunteer as a citizen patroller, tutor for children, office aide in the police or fire department, mentor for teens, escort for individuals with disabilities.

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Neighborhood dispute

Neighborhood dispute is not unlimited warfare. There is no need for police or sharply worded legal documents in most instances. 

The following information has been assembled to give an overview of Post Falls Police Department neighborhood dispute resolution policies.  Learning the do's and don'ts of neighborhood disputes can avoid stress and economic losses! 

Dealing With Difficult Neighbors

Getting ready to mow his lawn in Post Falls, Chuck Brown finds the neighbor's children have once again left their toys and bicycles on his property. Instead of bringing the items to his neighbor’s  property, he throws the items into his garbage can. This sets off a neighborhood dispute.

Unfortunately, such situations are very common. This is especially true in neighborhoods where people are constantly moving in or out. People simply don't take the time and effort to get to know their neighbors. With greater pressures and time constraints of working families, conflicts in the neighborhoods are on the rise. 

By tracking problems about property lines, loud stereos, run down projects, loose garbage, undisciplined children pets, and late night noise, there is little doubt that some people in Post Falls need to be educated in getting along. 

How to Avoid Neighborhood Fights