SAFETY All vehicles, including golf carts and bicycles, must obey all stop signs and the 20 mph speed limit throughout Lake Ashton. A person operating a golf cart on public roads or streets who is under 18 years must possess a valid learner’s permit or driver’s license. NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH (NW) CORNER By Fay Wood, NW Chief Don’t Become a Victim of Summertime Crime Summer is a wonderful time for vacations, family visits, and outdoor activities, but it is also a time when property crimes can increase. Criminals don’t take a summer break, so staying alert and taking a few simple precautions can help protect your home, vehicle, and personal belongings. According to the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC), household property crimes occur more frequently during the summer months than other seasons. Before heading out on vacation or enjoying time away from home, take steps to make your property less inviting to criminals. Home Safety Tips • Stay informed: The free McGruff Mobile app helps residents stay connected with their communities by providing safety information, alerts, and the ability to share information about suspicious activity. It can also help you stay informed about nearby home and vehicle burglaries while you are away. • Lock all doors and windows: Don’t forget garage doors and side entrances. An unlocked door can be an open invitation. • Ask for help while away: Have a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member check on your home, pick up packages, or hold your mail. • Create the appearance of someone being home: Use timers on lights and avoid leaving obvious signs that your home is vacant. • Be careful on social media: Avoid announcing travel plans before leaving. Wait until you return to share vacation photos. Vacation Safety Tips • Keep hotel rooms secure and avoid sharing your room number with strangers. • Stay aware of your surroundings and report suspicious behavior. • Plan ahead and use well-traveled routes when walking or driving. • Keep personal items secure. Close purses and backpacks, keep wallets in a front pocket, and avoid placing bags where they can easily be taken. Safety Tips for Grandparents • Have a plan in case family members become separated during outings. Choose a meeting location and time. • Encourage grandchildren and teens to check in when leaving and returning home. • Monitor internet and social media activity to help ensure safe online habits. Vehicle Safety Tips • Always lock your vehicle and close windows when leaving your car. • Never leave valuables visible inside your vehicle. If items must remain in the car, store them out of sight or in the trunk. • Check around and inside your vehicle before getting in, and lock your doors once inside. Another valuable safety resource is Alert Polk, Polk County’s emergency notification system. Sign up to receive important alerts regarding severe weather, evacuations, boil water notices, hurricanes, critical law enforcement notifications, and other public safety concerns. Notifications are sent directly to your phone or email, helping you stay informed of situations that may affect your safety. Register at https:// www.polksheriff.org/citizen-alerts. Simple prevention steps can go a long way toward keeping you, your home, and your belongings safe this summer. Your Neighborhood Watch Team wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable summer. Remember: If you see something, say something!
19 Publizr Home