Crime

With Robberies on the Rise, VIPD Provides List of Safety Tips

As part of its continued Crime Prevention and Community Policing initiative, the VIPD Crime Prevention Bureau has providing the following suggestions that if followed, reduces burglaries and robberies within our community. To avoid robberies: If possible, do not walk alone during late-night hours. Walk in groups whenever you can — there is always safety in numbers. Stay in well-lit areas as much as possible. Avoid alleys, vacant lots, wooded areas, and other short-cuts or secluded areas. They are usually not well-lit or heavily traveled. Always be aware of your surroundings. If you are wearing headphones, do not turn up the volume so high that you cannot hear outside noises.   To avoid burglaries: Lock all outside doors and windows before you leave the house or go to bed. Even if it is for a short time, lock your doors. Sliding glass doors are vulnerable. Locks or security bars are available for better security. Never leave keys under doormats, flowerpots, mailboxes or o...