Through crime prevention efforts, you and other concerned citizens can take control of your property and your lives, strengthen the bonds in our community and help police make your neighborhood a safe place to live.  The Othello Police Department has various programs and information to aid citizens in crime prevention and the following is an example. 

The following are  tips for reducing your risk of becoming a victim.

Secure your home

1.  Install crime resistant locks.

• Deadbolts on all outside entrances (make sure they meet local building and fire codes).
• Reinforce or replace key-in-the knob locks with cylinder dead-bolt or horizontal bolts.
• Secure sliding glass doors.
• Install locks made specifically to prevent sliding or lifting.
• Drill a hole through the inside frame and insert a nail to prevent sliding.
• Place a strong piece of wood or a steel rod in the track (a broomstick for example).    
  

2.  Prevent window entry.  

• Use window key locks (keep keys in locks for quick exit in case of fire.)
• For double hung windows, drill holes (at downward angle) through the top of corners of the inside sash and the bottom corners of the outside sash. Insert nails, pins or bolts.
• Consider placing grates on the basement and first floor windows. Check local fire codes first.
• Look into alarm system.   
  

3.  Crime-proof outside areas.   

• Keep yard, porch and entrances well-lit at night.  Look into motion detection lighting.
• Store tools, toys, etc. after each use.
• Never hide keys outside your home.  
• Get a guard dog (or at least post Beware of Dog signs).    
  

4.   Get to know your neighbors.   

• Get to know each other’s schedules so you can be aware when something is not a normal pattern.
• Cooperate in keeping an eye on neighborhood homes (Do you have a neighborhood watch program?).    
  

5.   Use preventative measures when traveling away from home.   

• Inform a trusted neighbor of your travel plans.
• Have someone collect your mail, newspapers and other deliveries while you are away.
• Don’t share your plans with strangers.
• Leave shades and blinds in their normal positions to the appearance that someone is home.
• Use timing devices on lighting (two or more areas of the home).
• For extended absences, consider hiring a trusted house sitter.  

Personal Security

1.   Driving  

• Lock doors and roll up widows.
• Keep valuables out of sight.
• Park in well-lit areas.
• NEVER pick up strangers.  
   
  

2.   Walking, Biking and Jogging     

• Avoid isolated areas (especially after dark).
• Walk with confidence and another person if possible.
• Don’t carry a lot of cash or valuables.
• Vary your route.
• Stay alert    
  

3.   Answering the door or telephone   

• Keep it closed
• Install a peephole.
• Never let a stranger in for any reason.
• Ask service people for identification.
• Telephone the company to verify unexpected service calls.
• Don’t give any information to strangers or wrong numbers.
• Never give your home address or personal information to persons on the telephone.
• Hang up on obscene callers and/or people who don't identify themselves.
• Use the *57 tracing method to trace harassing calls.
• If callers make threatening statements, contact the police.    
  

4.   General safety rules while in public places.   

• Always approach your car or your home with keys in hand.
• If you are suspicious of a person or circumstance, go immediately to a safe place.
• Contact police or security if you need help.
• Carry your wallet in your front pocket or an inside jacket pocket to thwart pickpockets.
• Hold your purse firmly and secure the clasp. Never leave your purse unattended. 

For more information on crime prevention contact: