For residents seeking to protect their homes from burglaries and package theft, local law enforcement officers suggest homeowners take critical, proactive measures to secure their properties.
In an interview with The Reflector, La Center Police Chief Phil Sample, a law enforcement veteran with 27 years of experience in the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, shared strategies for homeowners can take to prevent break-ins and burglaries.
Essentials
Sample emphasized the importance of securing a home’s entry points, noting that even basic measures like locking doors and windows can significantly reduce vulnerability to break-ins. He recommends upgrading weak window locks, especially on ground-floor windows, and installing safety catches to limit how far they can open. Reinforcing door jambs with stronger screws also enhances security.
Additionally, homeowners should avoid hiding spare keys in predictable locations such as under doormats or inside potted plants.
“First and foremost is making sure your house is locked up anytime you leave it,” Sample said. “Strong locks on exterior doors and secured windows are essential.”
Investing in a comprehensive security system is another effective deterrent. Sample highlights the importance of features like alarms for doors and windows, cameras and motion detectors. Some modern systems even notify law enforcement automatically in the event of a break-in.
“With today’s technology, investing in a good security system that monitors your home is a smart move. Systems with alarms, cameras and motion detectors are very effective,” he said.
For safeguarding valuables, Sample advises storing important items like passports, birth certificates, Social Security cards and checkbooks in a secure safe that is anchored to prevent removal. When traveling, storing valuables such as jewelry in a safe adds another layer of protection. Sample explained these basic steps make it more difficult for burglars to accomplish their theft, as well as the time spent in a residence. The longer the break-in, the greater the risk is for the thief.
Deterrence
Sample stresses that preventing break-ins altogether should be the ultimate goal. Security cameras, particularly those that detect motion, are effective in discouraging would-be intruders. Placing them in visible areas, especially ones out of reach, may also deter a would-be thief in the first place.
Outdoor motion-detecting lights are another valuable tool, as they spotlight potential intruders and reduce opportunities to hide. Maintaining clear and tidy landscaping around windows improves visibility and eliminates potential hiding spots.
“Nobody wants to be monitored,” Sample said. “No one wants to be under the spotlight if they’re there to do something bad.”
If a home is left unattended, Sample explained people can take steps to prevent break-ins. Using smart home technology to schedule indoor and outdoor lighting can create the illusion of occupancy, even when the home is vacant.
Sample also advises caution with social media posts. Sharing real-time updates about vacations can unintentionally signal an empty home.
“Be mindful of what you’re sharing and how you’re sharing it. Posting vacation updates like, ‘We’re on a cruise, back in April,’ can alert the wrong people,” Sample said.
Lastly, Sample recommends residents build strong relationships with neighbors, which adds a layer of security. Neighbors can help watch over packages or identify unusual activity in someone’s absence. Sample recommends people reach out to a local community watch or a close neighbor to keep watch for strange activity. Close neighbors can also hold onto packages, which he suggests instead of leaving packages on doorsteps for weeks on end.
“Exchange phone numbers with your neighbors and get to know who they are. That doesn’t mean you have to hang out with them or do weekend activities together, but it’s helpful to have a connection,” Sample said.
Additional tips from Battle Ground Police
Change alarm codes regularly to limit the likelihood of it being guessed or used outside of your knowledge.
Secure your garage and outbuildings.
Inventory valuables by creating a detailed list of your possessions, including descriptions, serial numbers and photos, and store this information securely, either digitally or physically. This information will ease the process of making a claim with an insurance company for lost or stolen property. People should also speak to their insurance provider to discuss specific coverage plan options.
Request a vacation check: Notify the Battle Ground Police Department of travel plans and a point of contact when you are gone. Submitting online vacation check requests to the Battle Ground Police Department advises officers of travel plans so they may keep an eye out for suspicious activity as they conduct routine patrols in your area. Go to cityofbg.org/FormCenter/Police-8/Vacation-Check-Request-43 to submit a request.
