Crime Prevention / Tips

Crime prevention is a top priority for the Garden City Police Department. Crime prevention, however, cannot be undertaken solely by the police department. Citizens, business owners, residents, and visitors to the community must also take positive steps to prevent crime and its consequences.

One of the best ways to prevent crime is to stay informed, stay aware, and stay connected to available resources.

The National Police Association has several helpful brochures in the areas of Internet Safety, Crime Prevention, Home Security, Identity Theft, and Prescription Medications:

FREE DOWNLOADS | National Police Association

 

Key Vehicle Security Tips:

1. Never leave your car running unattended:

  • Prevents opportunistic theft (especially common at gas stations or during quick stops).

2. Never leave keys in the car or ignition:

  • Even a locked car is easy to steal if the keys are accessible.

3. Always roll up windows and lock doors:

  • Basic but critical; many car thefts occur simply because doors were left unlocked.

4. Keep valuables out of sight:

  • Theft is often motivated by visible items like purses, electronics, or shopping bags. Lock them in the trunk or take them with you.

5. Park in well-lit, busy areas:

  • Thieves prefer darkness and isolation. Good lighting and foot traffic deter theft.

6. Use a visible mechanical anti-theft device (“club,” “J-bar,” etc.):

  • Visible barriers make your car less appealing compared to easier targets.

7. Install an electronic security system or GPS tracker:

  • These deter professional thieves and may help you recover your vehicle if it is stolen.

8. Be cautious with valet or garage parking:

  • Only hand over the ignition key and remove anything that could link back to your home or identity.

9. Keep documents secure:

  • Carry your registration and insurance with you; never leave identification or financial info inside your vehicle.

10. Record your VIN and license plate:

  • Store them safely with your driver’s license for quick reporting if the car is stolen.

 

Mail & Package Theft Prevention:

1. Promptly pick up mail:

  • Try not to leave letters and packages in your mailbox or at your door for any length of time.

2. Inquire about overdue mail:

  • If you do not receive a check, credit card, or other valuable mail you’re expecting, contact the sender as soon as possible and inquire about it.

3. Don’t send cash:

  • Be careful about what you send. Don’t risk sending cash in the mail.

4. Arrange for prompt pickup:

  • If you cannot be home to receive a package, make another arrangement or use the USPS Hold Mail Service.

5. Use Hold for Pickup:

  • When shipping packages, use the Hold for PickUp option, and the recipients can collect the package at their local Post Office™.

6. Request signature confirmation:

  • When mailing something important, consider requesting Signature Confirmation™ for the intended recipient.

7. File a change of address:

  • If you move, make sure you file a change of address with the Postal Service and let your financial institutions know as well.

 

Tips for Online Transactions:

Buying and selling online can be convenient — but safety should always come first. Keep these tips in mind when meeting someone for a transaction:

1. Meet in a public place:

  • Always arrange to meet in a safe, well-lit public location such as a coffee shop, shopping center, or police station parking lot. Avoid secluded areas and never invite strangers to your home.

2. Bring a friend:

  • Whenever possible, bring a friend or family member with you. Having someone present can help deter scams and unsafe situations.

3. Meet during daylight hours:

  • Try to complete transactions during the day when visibility and foot traffic are higher.

4. Inspect the item thoroughly:

  • Before finalizing the purchase, carefully examine the item to ensure it is exactly what was advertised and in the expected condition.

5. Trust your instincts:

  • If something feels off — the deal seems too good to be true, or the person makes you uncomfortable — don’t proceed. It’s okay to walk away.

6. Verify the seller’s identity:

  • Ask for the seller or buyer’s name and contact information before meeting. Cross-reference details through legitimate online platforms when possible.

7. Protect your personal information:

  • Do not share sensitive information such as your home address, Social Security number, or unnecessary personal details. Only exchange information essential to the transaction.

8. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash:

  • For higher-value items, consider secure electronic payment options that offer buyer protection.

9. Avoid wire transfers or money orders:

  • Be cautious of anyone requesting payment through wire transfers or money orders. These methods are commonly used in scams and offer little recourse if fraud occurs.

10. Report suspicious activity:

  • If you encounter fraudulent or suspicious behavior on any online marketplace, report it immediately through the platform’s support system. Reporting helps protect others in our community.

 

Register Your Valuable Property:

ReportIt lets you securely store serial numbers, item descriptions, pictures, and scans of receipts so that your items may be more easily identified in he event of theft or loss. Please click the link below to learn more about ReportIt:

ReportIt: Citizen Property Inventory System by LeadsOnline

 

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