North Glen Square, like many neighborhoods in the valley, has its share of challenges when it comes to blight, graffiti, and crime. To be successful, we need to combat all three problems simultaneously. Overall, we do OK on the first two. While some crimes are inevitable, there are many crimes that are very preventable. Many residents unwittingly make themselves victims by not taking simple precautions. In many cases you don’t have to take drastic, expensive measures to protect yourself and your property. Here are some common sense suggestions to avoid becoming a victim of crime:

• If you have a gate to an alley, keep it securely locked.

• Keep sheds and outside storage locked when not in use.

• Keep doors and windows closed and locked at night and when you are away.

• Use security thumb locks on windows.

• Keep your garage door closed when not in use. It only takes a few seconds to snatch an item out of an open garage. Don’t give thieves the opportunity.

• Use timers and motion activated lights when away.

• Use subtle lighting and avoid using spotlights that create harsh shadows.

• Use double cylinder deadbolts on doors with a window. Do not leave the key in the lock or near enough to reach if someone were to break the glass.

• Secure sliding patio doors with a tight-fitting wooden dowel in the track or other locking devices. Do not rely solely on the latch that comes with the door.

• Pick up newspapers, mail, flyers or anything else left on your property every day. Have someone do it if you’re away on vacation.

• If you live next to a vacant home, help avoid advertising it. Pick up flyers and other items left at the home.

• Do not leave valuables in your vehicle.

• Avoid parking on the street at night.

• Be aware of activity or cars parked in the driveway at vacant houses.

• Be aware of anyone sitting in a parked vehicle on the street for no apparent reason, especially morning when people are leaving for work.

• Get to know your neighbors, their cars and when they come and go so you can recognize suspicious activity if you see it.

• Maintain a record of serial #s, model #s and photographs of valuables in a secure location. It makes recovery of stolen items much easier.

• Take advantage of VIN etching events, where your vehicle’s VIN is etched into the windows. This can help uncover chop shops in the event of theft.