Security Tips/Links

Don’t Be Afraid Of Halloween. Just Be Aware.

You don’t need to be scared of the ghosts and goblins that come to your house this Halloween, just cautious. The Baltimore County Police Department suggests a few precautions this year before you open your door.

It may seem easier to leave your front door open with only the storm door closed, but please don’t. Storm doors were not meant to act as deterrents to thieves and robbers. Keep your main door locked and don’t open it until you’ve looked through a window or the door’s peephole. Open your door to only those children and adults you know and recognize.

The Department advises trick-or-treaters to be aware of their surroundings as well. Visit only those neighbors who are familiar to you.Remind children not to eat goodies before they get home. When they do arrive home, parents need to check the contents of their children’s bags. Look for such things as unwrapped candy, loose pieces of candy, and fruit. When checking candy wrappers, look for unusual markings or bumps and bulges. These could be signs of tampering. Throw away all unwrapped goodies. If something appears suspicious, err on the side of caution and get rid of it.

Some other suggestions

• Adults should accompany young children, and older kids should travel in groups.
• Obey all traffic laws. Walk on sidewalks whenever possible and cross at crosswalks or corners. Never cross between parked cars.
• Do not go into any vehicles or homes while trick-or-treating. Wait outside for treats.
• Respect other people’s property. Don’t destroy it.
• Stay in your own neighborhood.
• Parents, make sure masks have large holes for the eyes. It is easy for little ones to trip and fall on a dark night. If possible, use make-up instead of a mask. Give children flashlights to carry with them. Flashlights or battery-powered Halloween torches or lamps enable them to see better. It also makes it easier for others, especially motorists, to see them.

 Baltimore County Police hope everyone will have a safe and fun Halloween.

TakeAway The Fun Of “Moving Night”

Baltimore’s tradition of “Moving Night,” October 30, is not something that everyone cherishes.For those not familiar with the term “Moving Night,” it began years ago as a series of pranks, but it is now just another reason for thieves to steal outdoor furniture and anything else that isn’t nailed down. Don’t become a statistic, play it safe and follow a few easy steps.

• Leave all outside lights on overnight. Check and replace all burned out bulbs. Remember that the sun sets earlier now.
• Trim back all shrubs and trees for maximum visibility for inside and outside viewing.
• Place all outdoor furniture, barbecue grills and other outdoor items in a locked garage, shed or basement. If these are not viable options, use a chain and lock and attach it to a fence, pole or railing.
• Network with neighbors. Keep an eye on each other’s property. It is easier to keep track on neighborhood activities if there are more eyes keeping watch.
• Contact the local Citizens on Patrol group. Ask if there are some special plans for this evening. You might be able to assist the group by watching for any strange activity that might occur on your street.
• Let the local precinct know of any suspicious or criminal activities from years past that might affect your street this year.
• Call 911 if you see anything suspicious or anyone acting suspicious. When you talk to the dispatcher, explain why you think the activity looks strange. Remember that a group of teenagers is not always looking for trouble.
• Lock all vehicles and remove all valuables.

Put on your Hardhat and pardon the dust!