The Battle Ground Police Department (BGPD) has received numerous reports of vandalism to holiday lights and decorations this season.
To help limit both theft and vandalism, BGPD offers a list of ways homeowners can protect their beloved holiday decorations and homes. Most importantly, the department stressed the importance of filing police reports in order to help identify subjects involved in the Grinch-like mischief.
“We are hopeful that, with a combination of strategic placement, security measures and community involvement, residents can reduce their risk of becoming a victim,” Battle Ground Communications Manager Alisha Smith said in an email.
Whether people are still placing holiday decor or are finished with their outdoor displays, here are some tips BGPD offered to keep items safe and secure.
• Secure Decorations: Anchor decorations using strong stakes, zip ties or heavy bases to secure decorations, making them harder to tamper with or steal.
• Improve Lighting and Visibility: Use motion-activated lights and keep yards well lit to minimize hiding spots for potential vandals.
• Security Cameras/Technology: Visible security cameras act as both a deterrent and a tool to identify perpetrators if vandalism occurs. Some modern holiday lights come with built-in alarms or can be controlled by apps to monitor activity.
• Strategize Placement: Position decorations in areas that are harder to access from the street but are still visible to neighbors or passers-by.
• Monitor Activity: Inspect decorations daily for any signs of tampering or damage. Consider turning off or removing portable decorations late at night to minimize risk.
The Battle Ground Police Department also stated that building community awareness may help deter vandalism and theft.
The department recommends coordinating with neighbors, adding that a neighborhood watch can help monitor unusual activity.
BGPD also provided these community-minded tips:
• Share Information: Let others know about any past incidents to encourage vigilance.
• Holiday Competitions: Community events like decoration contests encourage neighbors to look out for each other’s displays.
• Street Decorations: Collaborate with neighbors to create a unified street display, making it harder for vandals to target individual homes.
Once the holiday season is over, BGPD recommends removing decorations promptly to minimize the risk of vandalism and theft.
“By combining these strategies, residents can significantly reduce the risk of vandalism and enjoy their holiday displays with peace of mind,” Smith stated in her email. “Of course, if you become a victim of vandalism, you should contact law enforcement and promptly file a report so police can attempt to identify the suspect(s).”