Home Safety and Security December 2001
I recently attended the Neighborhood Watch Kickoff Meeting, in addition to a special meeting held in Madison Hill, focusing on home safety and security. Officer Phelps, our community policing officer, was also in attendance at both meetings and provided information on both these occasions.
Since daylight savings time ended on October 27, it is much darker in the evenings when we return home from work. An automatic timer for indoor lamps provides needed lighting in a dark home. Keep the entrances to your homes well lit--both the front and the back.
We all need to be aware of suspicious activities or vehicles which may be present in our neighborhoods. Because we reside in the neighborhood, we are more cognizant of what may be out of the ordinary on our individual block than the officers on patrol. If you are concerned or uneasy with a particular activity, please call the Riverdale Park Police dispatcher at 301-927-4343, or 911 if it is an emergency.
There have been several attempted break-ins during the day while residents were at home. To protect yourself and your family, make sure all doors are locked, including your attached garages. If you have automatic garage door openers, make sure your vehicles are locked. If you have home security systems, keep them armed even if you are home.
The winter holidays are quickly approaching and many of us will be sharing this special season with family and friends. If you are planning on being away during the holidays for an extended period of time, the Riverdale Park Police Department will patrol around your neighborhood and home during your absence. Call them at the number listed above and provide the details requested by the dispatcher.
The next Neighborhood Watch Meeting will be held December 18, 2001.
Cynthia Blaschke is the Councilperson for Ward 2.
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