Auto Burglary
It takes four seconds or less for someone to break into your vehicle. While you can't stop every auto burglary, there are several things you can do to make your car a less attractive target for thieves.
- Keep your vehicle clean and limit what you keep inside it.
- Make sure you do not leave personal property, such as purses, wallets, electronic devices, sunglasses, computer or book bags, etc., inside your vehicle.
Always park in a populated, well-lit area and remember that thieves lie in wait in parking lot and watch as items are left in vehicles or put in trunks. Simply by securing items in your trunk will not safeguard them from auto burglary. Be aware of people who loiter, lift door handles, or are looking into vehicle windows. Report these persons to police by calling (305) 365-5555 or 911.
Business Security Tips
There are many steps you can take to make your business as secure as possible. Create policies and procedures regarding money handling, opening and closing of your business, and other various aspects of your business. Provide appropriate training for your employees and make them accountable.
Safeguard alarm codes, safe combinations, and key to the business. Distribution of these items should be limited to essential personnel and change them if an employee is terminated.
Document the make, model, and serial numbers of all equipment such as computers, televisions, tools, etc. Keep valuable items properly secured in locked drawers, cabinets, or rooms at all times.
Programs
There are several programs offered by the Village of Key Biscayne Police Department to assist owners with their business security:
- We Care Program: Encourages private property owners, or their authorized agents, to enter into a partnership with the Police Department by signing a We Care Program Form. This form authorizes the Village of Key Biscayne Police Department to enforce the trespass statutes on their property. The trespass signs state, No Trespassing by Order of the Village of Key Biscayne Police Department and are to be posted on their property.
- Open and Empty Program: Encourages business owners not to keep money accessible during closed business hours.
- Lock Auto Signs: Area business plazas, shopping centers, and hotels are encouraged to post signs in an effort to educate the public and prevent auto burglaries. The Village of Key Biscayne Police Department issues signs that read “Where is Your Key Fob? Help us combat auto theft! To report suspicious activity, please call 305-365-5555”.
Home Security Tips
A home burglary takes place in the U.S. about every 15 seconds. Criminals select their targets based on opportunity. You can reduce this opportunity by making your house less inviting to potential criminals.
Exterior
Keep foliage low around windows and doors:
- Make sure house numbers are visible from the street and are illuminated so emergency personnel can find your house
- Trim low hanging tree branches and keep bushes and shrubs to no more than 3 feet tall
- Vegetation should be trimmed to eliminate hiding spots
Lighting
Lighting is a valuable deterrent. Make sure the exterior of your home is equipped with photoelectric lights or lights with motion detectors, placed well out of reach so it is less likely to be disabled. Keep at least 1 interior light on whether you are at home or away. If you are away, arrange to have your mail and/or newspapers collected by a trusted neighbor or have the delivery stopped.
Doors & Windows
All exterior doors, including the interior garage door, should be solid core construction and equipped with quality deadbolt locks and reinforced strike plates. Install a peephole to observe visitors without opening the door and never open your door to someone you don't know. Use auxiliary locks and solid wood sticks in the tracks of all windows and sliding glass doors. Keep exterior doors and windows locked, even when you are at home.
Alarms
Choose a reputable alarm company. Ensure that all magnetic contacts, motion sensors, and glass break detectors are in proper working order. Have your alarm system tested annually by a certified technician.
If you see suspicious people or unusual occurrences in your neighborhood, call police immediately at (305) 365-5555 or in an emergency, 911.
