KEEP YOUR CAR VISIBLE
Park in well-lit areas and avoid having your car concealed by larger vehicles, fences, or foliage; thieves like to work in private.
DON'T MAKE IT EASY
Keep windows and sunroofs closed and doors locked. Almost one-fourth of thefts from vehicles are from unlocked cars.
HIDE YOUR VALUABLES - OR DON'T LEAVE VALUABLES IN YOUR CAR
Many smash-and-grab thieves act on impulse, so keep your stuff out of sight - either with you or in a locked trunk. Don't count on the glove box; thieves know to look there, and they're easy to break into. If you have a wagon or SUV that leaves your cargo area open, get a retractable fitted cover to keep shopping bags or other belongings hidden.
DON'T HAND A THIEF YOUR KEYS
Take you keys with you. And if you think you have a great hiding place for a spare key, car break-in thieves know to look above the visor, in the center console, under the floor mat, in the trunk well, etc.
STOW YOUR STUFF BEFORE YOU ARRIVE
Experienced thieves often stake out parking lots to watch for people putting items in their trunk. Help prevent car break-ins by putting valuables like laptops, messenger bags, and electronic devices into your trunk before you get to the parking lot.
STASH THE EVIDENCE
Hide telltale evidence such as power plugs, MP3 adapters, and navigation system windshield suction-cup mounts. Thieves know what they're looking for, so hide the electronic accessories, too.
TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS
If you see suspicious activity, find another spot to park. If you're concerned, tell the attendant or report your suspicions to police. You may be helping keep another person from being a victim of a car break-in or worse.
SEE SOMETHING - SAY SOMETHING
Always alert police using
911
or, if not an imminent emergency call the police non-emergency number
which is
410-313-2200
REPORT ALL CRIMES
A message from the Oakland Mills Safety & Security Committee:
Please mark your calendar for the July 25th Oakland Mills Board Meeting at 7:00 p.m. at The Other Barn. We will introduce and have a discussion with the Oakland Mill Neighborhood Resource Supervisor, Sgt. James Zammillo, and our soon to be announced Community Police Officer.
Judy and Steve Gottsagen, OM Safety and Security Committee Co-Chairs