Burglary Prevention

• Lock ALL doors and windows – No matter if you will be gone for a just a short time, always lock your doors and windows. 
• Use Lights to Your advantage – A well-lit residence or business is less likely to be targeted.  Utilize lights on the exterior of the residence or business to help deter a burglar from picking your location.
• Alarm System Activation – In order for your alarm system to work to prevent criminal activity, you must ACTIVATE it!
• Make a list of all of your valuables – Compile a list of all serial numbers of your valuables, along with taking photos of each item.  Store this information in a safe location.
• Family Member or Trusted Neighbor – A trusted neighbor or family member can check on your residence while you are away to pick up mail, newspapers, trash cans and to watch for things which might be suspicious around your residence.  The Tallahassee Police Department can be contacted via telephone (850-891-4200) during regular business hours to request a "Extra Patrol" request if you are going to be gone for a while.  You may also fill out an online request here.
• See something, say something, do something – If you see something you know is out of the ordinary in your neighborhood, please report suspicious persons or activities immediately to the Consolidated Dispatch Agency (850-606-5800).
  Request a Residential Survey through the Community Relations Unit 

Teaching Children How to Use 9-1-1

The Tallahassee Police Department Communications Section would like to help citizens teach their children how to use the 9-1-1 emergency telephone system. The Communication Section has provided the following tips for parents and caregivers to reference when they instruct their children about this most important skill:

What to teach children

• When discussing the 9-1-1 emergency system, always tell children to dial "nine-one-one", never refer to this emergency number as "nine-eleven". There is no such number as "eleven" on the telephone and a child may easily become confused in the process of dialing.
• Teach your children to TRUST the 9-1-1 operator - explain to them that 9-1-1 is their friend and a source of help to them during an emergency.
• Teach your children their home address (or any other address they might need to give to the operator) in the event of an emergency.
• Advise your children about any possible emergency situation that is likely to occur at your home or location. Explain what things to lookout for.
• If a member of the family has a heart condition, tell your children how to identify the symptoms of a heart attack, i.e., person not breathing or suddenly collapsing, etc. Instruct the child to call 9-1-1 should these symptoms occur.
• Carefully explain to your children that 9-1-1 is for an emergency and that an emergency is when they need to get law enforcement, the fire department, or paramedics in a hurry.
• Pay particular attention to teaching children that 9-1-1 IS NOT A TOY OR GAME and should never be played with unless it is actually needed. Possibly use the classic "Crying Wolf" story and relate it to the use of 9-1-1. At the same time you must avoid discouraging a child from using 9-1-1. Any time that they think they need to call, encourage them to use 9-1-1, even if they are in doubt.

Gym Safety

Theft is a crime of opportunity. Most thefts occur when valuables are left unattended. The thief normally seeks privacy to commit his/her act. Virtually any article left in plain view is apt to be stolen. Most property that is stolen is left unattended or unlocked.

• If you have personal items of value, leave them at home.
• If you have to bring personal items, get a fanny pack and keep them on you at all times. Do not leave your keys unattended anywhere.
• Use a lock on your gym locker.
• Also, another way to stay safe is to never leave your bags, purses, wallets, or any other possessions unattended even for a moment. Know where your property is when you are working out.
• Be aware of your surroundings when you get to the parking lot and report any suspicious activity.
• Keep a written record of valuables, including descriptions and serial numbers. These are proof that the property is yours and will aid in the reporting process and recovery.

Always report missing or stolen property immediately. We will assist you in trying to recover your property.

Vehicle Security

Auto Burglary is a Crime of Opportunity

Most thefts occur when valuables are left unattended. The thief normally seeks privacy to commit his/her act. Virtually any article left in plain view is apt to be stolen. Most property that is stolen is left unattended or unlocked.

Who provides the burglar with the opportunity? The victim provides the burglar with the opportunity by leaving their vehicle unlocked or their window open. Most property stolen is left in plain view where anyone walking by the car can see it lying there.

What are their favorite targets? Anything of value. The property most preferred is guns, cash or loose change that is left in the console or ashtray of the vehicle. They also like wallets, purses, and cellular phones.

When do auto burglaries occur? Most auto burglaries occur at night while the vehicle is parked outside the victim's residence. Some burglars also target vehicles that are parked in parking lots while their owners are at work, in class, exercising or shopping. They know it's going to be a long time before the owner returns to their car and the likelihood of being caught is low.

What can I do to keep from being the victim of an auto burglary? Park your car in a garage or parking lot that is supervised by an attendant. Park your car in well-lit areas away from places of concealment, such as alleys and behind bushes. Close your windows and lock your doors. Never hide a key in one of those magnetic key boxes, because if you can find it, so can a burglar. Take your valuables with you when you leave your car or lock them in the trunk out of sight.

What should I do if I find my car has been burglarized? Report anyone that is seen trying door handles, looking in cars or loitering in the parking lot. If the burglary is in progress Call 911. The call taker will ask you who you are and where you are calling from. Then they will ask you to describe the suspect (race, sex, height, weight and clothing description). If the burglary has already occurred.

Call TPD's non-emergency number at 606-5800. Do not get inside of the car to see what's missing because you may be destroying evidence needed to catch the burglar.

Auto Burglary Prevention Tips

• Remove visible items from your vehicle - If you leave items visible in your car, you are a target. Be aware that someone may be watching as you put a wallet, purse, or cell phone under your seat, especially at a gym. Take these with you or secure them in your trunk.
• Lock Up!
  • Lock your vehicle and take your keys, even for quick errands.
  • Lock the trunk, hatchback or tailgate to block access into the vehicle.
  • Close all windows, including vent or wing windows and sunroofs.
• Vehicle alarms - Buy an alarm and use it! Many people believe that alarms no longer make a difference, however, they do remain an effective deterrent to a burglar. Remember criminals are looking for the easy target.
• Vehicle Registration - Black out the address on your registration and photocopy it. Keep the copy, not the original, in your car. You must have the registration available to present to a police officer upon request.
• Do not attach personal information to your keys -If your keys are stolen, having your personal information or vehicle license number attached only compounds the problem. A criminal now may have access to your home, automobile or office.
• Mail -Do not leave outgoing or incoming mail in your car, especially where visible. This has your name and address on it.
• Garage Door Opener - Avoid leaving this in your car if possible.
• Park Safely!
  • At home, park in your garage if you have one. Lock your car and all garage doors.
  • Park in a well-lit area.
  • Check to see that your vehicle is visible from pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

Remember, only you can prevent auto burglaries by removing your valuables from your vehicle and locking them in a safe place. Help us to protect your property.

Driving Under the Influence

"It Begins With You!!"

A safety message from the Tallahassee Police Department - Every single injury and death caused by drunk driving is totally preventable. Unfortunately, drunk drivers cause over twenty percent of all traffic fatalities in the United State each year. Thus, drunk driving remains a serious national problem that tragically affects thousands of victims annually.

Occurrence and Consequences

It's easy to forget that dry statistics represent real people and real lives. In 2004, 7 traffic homicide investigations were conducted by the Tallahassee Police Department (1 alcohol related). In 2005, we conducted an astounding 23 traffic homicide investigations (8 were alcohol related). In 2006, the number dropped significantly to 8 (2 were alcohol related). Although these numbers suggest a decline, it is important to note that:

• Alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes kill someone every 31 minutes and non-fatally injure someone every two minutes (NHTSA 2006).
• During 2005, 16,885 people in the U.S. died in alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes, representing 39% of all traffic-related deaths (NHTSA 2006).
  
  In 2005, nearly 1.4 million drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics (Department of Justice 2005). That's less than one percent of the 159 million self-reported episodes of alcohol–impaired driving among U.S. adults each year (Quinlan et al. 2005).
  
  Drugs other than alcohol (e.g., marijuana and cocaine) are involved in about 18% of motor vehicle driver deaths. These other drugs are generally used in combination with alcohol (Jones et al. 2003).
  
  More than half of the 414 child passengers' ages 14 and younger that died in alcohol-related crashes during 2005 were riding with the drinking driver (NHTSA 2006).
  
  
• In 2005, 48 children age 14 years and younger who were killed as pedestrians or peda-cyclists were struck by impaired drivers (NHTSA 2006).

Cost: Each year, alcohol-related crashes in the United States cost about $51 billion (Blincoe et al. 2002).

Groups at Risk

• Male drivers involved in fatal motor vehicle crashes are almost twice as likely as female drivers to be intoxicated with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or greater (NHTSA 2006). It is illegal to drive with a BAC of 0.08% or higher in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
  
  At all levels of blood alcohol concentration, the risk of being involved in a crash is greater for young people than for older people (Zador et al. 2000). In 2005, 16% of all drivers age 16 to 20 who died in motor vehicle crashes had been drinking alcohol (NHTSA 2006).
  • Young men ages 18 to 20 (under the legal drinking age) reported driving while impaired more frequently than any other age group (Shults et al. 2002, Quinlan et al. 2005).
• Among motorcycle drivers killed in fatal crashes, 30% have BACs of 0.08% or greater (Paulozzi et al. 2004).
• Nearly half of the alcohol-impaired motorcyclists killed each year are age 40 or older, and motorcyclists ages 40 to 44 years have the highest percentage of fatalities with BACs of 0.08% or greater (Paulozzi et al. 2004).
• Of the 1,946 traffic fatalities among children ages 0 to 14 years in 2005, 21% involved alcohol (NHTSA 2006).
• Among drivers involved in fatal crashes, those with BAC levels of 0.08% or higher were nine times more likely to have a prior conviction for driving while impaired (DWI) than were drivers who had not consumed alcohol (NHTSA 2006).

Protect Yourself

While society has done much to improve highway safety, you can do much to protect yourself. Don't drink and drive and don't ride with anyone who has too much to drink. Remember, it is usually themselves and their passengers who are harmed by drunk drivers. The risk of collision for high BAC drivers is several hundred times higher than for a non-drinking driver.

Personal Safety Checklist:

• Volunteer to be a designated driver.
• Always use a safety seat belt.
• Use four-lane highways whenever possible.
• Avoid rural roads.
• Avoid travel after midnight (especially on Fridays and Saturdays).
• Drive defensively.
• Choose vehicles with airbags.
• Never use illegal drugs. Illicit drugs are involved in a large proportion of traffic fatalities.
• Never drive when fatigued. The dangers posed when fatigued are similar to those when intoxicated. A drunk or fatigued driver has slowed reactions and impaired judgment. And a driver who nods off at the wheel has no reactions and no judgment! Drivers who drift off cause about 72,500 injuries and deaths each and every year.
• Don't use a car phone, put on make-up, comb your hair, or eat while driving. Drivers using cellular phones are four times more likely to have an accident than other drivers.
• Steer clear of aggressive drivers. Aggressive drivers may be responsible for more deaths than drunk drivers.

Protect Others

Volunteer to be a designated driver. Never condone or approve of excessive alcohol consumption. Intoxicated behavior is potentially dangerous and never amusing.

Don't ever let your friends drive drunk. Take their keys, have them stay the night, have them ride home with someone else, call a cab, or do whatever else is necessary - but don't let them drive!

Having a Party? Be a good host

• Create a setting conducive to easy, comfortable socializing: soft, gentle music, low levels of noise, comfortable seating. This encourages conversation and social interaction rather than heavy drinking.
• Serve food before beginning to serve drinks. This de-emphasizes the importance of alcohol and also sends the message that intoxication is not desirable.
• Have a responsible bartender. If you plan to ask a friend or relative to act as bartender, make sure that person is not a drink pusher who encourages excessive consumption.
• Don't have an "open bar." A responsible person needs to supervise consumption to ensure that no one drinks too much. You have both a moral and a legal responsibility to make sure that none of your guests drink too much.
• Pace the drinks. Serve drinks at regular reasonable intervals. A drink-an-hour schedule is a good guide.
• Push snacks. Make sure that people are eating.
• Be sure to offer a diversity of attractive non-alcohol drinks. For numerous non-alcoholic drink recipes, please visit idrink.com.
• Respect anyone's choice not to drink. Remember that about one-third of American adults choose not to drink and that a guest's reason for not drinking is the business of the guest only, not of the host. Never put anyone on the defense for not drinking.
• End your gathering properly. Decide when you want the party to end and stop serving drinks well before that time. Then begin serving coffee along with substantial snacks. This provides essential non-drinking time before your guests leave.
• Protect others and yourself by never driving if you think, or anyone else thinks, that you might have had too much to drink. It's always best to use a designated driver.

Research information provided by Prof. David J. Hanson, Ph.D., Sociology Department, State University of New York, Potsdam, NY 13676. For additional information on alcohol problems & solutions, please visit the website.

Residential Security

Lock Before You Leave

Your safety is of the utmost importance to the Tallahassee Police Department. The majority of auto and residential burglaries reported to the Tallahassee Police Department listed "No Force" as the means of entry. Despite the awareness campaigns, we continue to see this trend in our city. The Tallahassee Police Department Community Relations Unit offers the following safety tips to assist you.

TPD asks you to remember to:

• Make sure all exterior doors and windows are properly closed and locked when you leave. Many burglaries occur because people do not fully close the door. Most burglaries are a crime of opportunity! An unlocked or opened door or window can easily provide this opportunity. Garage doors should also be closed and locked.
• Stop your mail and paper or have a trusted neighbor collect them for you.
• Make sure interior lights and electronics are on timers. This will give your home the appearance of being occupied. Exterior lighting can usually be equipped with a photocell that will activate lighting automatically.
• Park your vehicle in a well-lighted area. Valuables left in plain view only entice burglars. Remove all items from the vehicle (CD's, backpacks, cell phones, purses, currency).
• Have someone you know check on your vehicle and home. Leave emergency contact information with someone you trust. If you live in an apartment, contact your apartment manager or leasing agent to let them know you are leaving town. Let them know how to contact you in case of an emergency.
• Contact the police department and request an Extra Protection for your address.

Reducing the current burglary trend is our primary focus. Don't become a statistic! Help Us Help You!

Simply ... Lock Before You Leave!

For more information on Crime Prevention Programs and Services, contact the Unit at 850-891-4251.

Vacation Safety

Are you planning a trip out of town? With many schools getting ready for Spring Break, chances are a vacation may be in your plans. If so, TPD has a few tips to ensure that your home is safer from criminals attempting to take advantage of your absence:

Several days before you leave:

• Notify your local law enforcement agency about your departure and return dates, and give a name and telephone number of a neighbor or relative to notify in case of a burglary, fire or other emergency. Officers patrolling in your area will periodically check your home.
• Notify the Post Office to hold your mail, or arrange with a neighbor to pick up and hold your mail.
• Notify your newspaper carrier to discontinue newspaper deliveries, or arrange with a neighbor to pick up and hold your papers.
• Make arrangements to have your grass cut and watered while you are gone. Have someone check daily to remove throwaway papers and circulars from your doorway and yard.
• If you have valuables in the house, take them to the bank for storage in your safety deposit box. Deposit extra cash in your bank account.
• Move valuables so they can't be seen from the porch windows. Be sure you have a list of small appliances and valuables.
• Make sure any broken window, door locks and window locks are repaired.
• Put things away. Lawn furniture, bicycles, etc., should be put away before leaving. Items left out can easily be stolen.
• Arrange with a neighbor or relative to watch your house. Give them a key and let them know where or how you can be reached in an emergency. Write down their telephone number so you can check with them during your trip. Give them your car description and license number.
• Arrange inspection by a trusted neighbor if you will be gone for more than a few days, to be sure that nothing has been disturbed.

Just before you leave

• Turn down the volume control on your telephone so it cannot be heard from outside.
• Set an electrical timer to turn on some lights and a radio on and off during the day and evening hours. Added protection can be achieved if you have a neighbor rearrange the timer - controlled lights so that a pattern is not established in your absence.
• Unplug all electrical appliances such as stereos, televisions sets, irons, washer and fans to prevent possible damage from electrical storms.
• Make sure that all gas appliances are in good working order, and that pilot lights are working.
• Turn off water to automatic washer to prevent possible damage from broken hoses.
• Set your thermostat so that your furnace and air-conditioner will maintain a reasonable temperature while you are gone.
• Close all windows and sliding glass doors, and be sure that all screens or storm windows are locked or fastened.
• Close and lock your garage door.
• Put the window shades in the normal daytime position, and make sure all main floor drapes, shades and curtains are arranged so that neighbors and police can see into your house. Do not close blinds, pull shades down or do other things that advertise that your house is empty.
• Make sure the last person out locks the door. Then, take a walk around the house. Check the doors and windows.
• If you leave a car or other vehicle in your driveway, make sure it is locked.

In case of a break-in, the neighbor should be instructed to not go in the house until the police have arrived and cleared the house. They should know how to reach you and your insurance agent, and should give this information to the appropriate law enforcement agency when reporting a suspected burglary.

On the Road Safety

Are you planning a trip out of town? If so, TPD has a few tips to ensure that you stay as safe as possible while driving to your destination:

• Never carry large amounts of cash; use traveler's checks. If you must carry large sums of money, do not display it openly
• Keep a record of traveler's check numbers and your credit card numbers in a safe place. Have the telephone numbers to call in case your checks or credit cards are stolen or lost
• Be aware of your surroundings and never advertise your plans to strangers; this includes travel routes and the amount of cash you are carrying
• Do not stop to offer help to a stranded motorist. Go to the nearest telephone and call for assistance
• If you suspect someone is following you, drive to the nearest service station, restaurant or business and call the police or sheriff's department. If you believe it is unsafe for you to get out of your car, sound your horn and flash your lights to draw attention
• If your car breaks down, raise the hood and attach a white flag to the antenna or door handle. If someone stops to help it is advisable that you stay in your locked car and ask him or her to call the police or a garage. If you must abandon your car, keep all passengers together
• Do not carry your airplane tickets or passport in open view
• Be very careful with bus, train or airplane tickets. They are as good as cash
• Males are advised to carry their wallets in an inside pocket or front trouser pocket
• Females are advised to carry their purse under their arm
• Take a picture of your suitcases and keep the picture(s) with you. The picture(s) may be helpful in identifying your luggage if it is lost by an airline
• Label each piece of luggage with your name and business address
• While traveling, be sure your luggage is locked

Sightseeing Safety

Are you planning a trip to do some sightseeing? If so, TPD has a few tips to ensure that you stay as safe as possible while seeing the sights:

• Ask for directions at a hotel/motel on how to get to those attractions you want to visit
• If you are going out in an unfamiliar area, ask the hotel clerk if there are areas you should avoid
• Select tour guides carefully
• Don't advertise you are a tourist. Don't look lost or vulnerable. Walk with a purpose and stay alert to what's happening around you. If you get lost, find an open business and ask for directions
• Only carry with you the cash you will need, and only in small denominations
• If older children go off separately, be sure they understand the importance of keeping track of time and returning promptly at appointed hours

Hotel & Motel Safety

Are you planning on staying at a hotel or motel while on vacation? If so, TPD has a few tips to ensure that you stay as safe as possible:

• Take all of your luggage and valuables to your room
• Never leave money, checks, credit cards, car keys or valuables in the room. Take them with you
• Determine the most direct route to and from your room, to the fire escapes, elevators and nearest telephone
• When occupying or leaving your room, use all auxiliary locking devices on doors and windows. (You may want to purchase a portable door lock for traveling)
• Keep a daily check of your belongings
• Place extra cash, expensive jewelry or other valuables in the hotel/motel safe
• Use the door viewer to identify anyone requesting entry. Open the door only if you are certain the person has a legitimate reason to enter your room. If in doubt, call the hotel/motel office
• Unpack and place belongings in the closet and dresser. Arrange your things so you'll know if anything is missing
• Consider locking any electrical appliances (blow dryers, electric shavers, etc.) in your luggage.
  Suitcases should always be locked so they cannot be used to carry your property out of your room
• Report any lost or stolen items to the hotel/motel management and to the police
• Report to the management any suspicious movements in the corridors or rooms

Camping Safety

Are you planning on camping while on vacation? If so, TPD has a few tips to ensure that you stay as safe as possible:

• Avoid camping alone in isolated areas and avoid walking alone at night
• Park your vehicle so it cannot be blocked by another vehicle in case of an emergency
• Mark all your belongings and camping equipment with your driver's license number and keep a record of equipment
• Mark your tent, sleeping bags and clothing with indelible ink
• Engrave your footlocker, thermos, coolers, lamps and flashlights, fishing gear, backpacks, barbecue grills, etc.
• Familiarize yourself with local emergency locations and phone numbers in case of accidents or crimes
• Avoid leaving your camping gear (cook stove, ice chest, chairs, etc.) out in the open unattended
• Get to know your neighbors and help protect each other's belongings
• Carry a spare lock so you can use storage containers available at many parks
• Use a chain and lock to secure propane tanks, portable generators, spare tires, bicycles, etc.
• Always lock your camping trailer when you leave the vicinity
• Install a locking device on the trailer-towing hitch, so your trailer cannot be towed away
• Report any suspicious activities and all crimes to the proper authorities

Spring Break Safety

Students, the Tallahassee Police Department knows you probably need a well-deserved break from the daily grind of classes and homework, but don't let criminals spoil your fun. Here's our suggestions to help keep you and your property safe during the college break:

• Make sure your home or apartment is left secure
  Check all doors and windows to make sure they are closed and locked. Put interior lights and radios on timers.
• Remove all valuables from your car and park in a highly visible, lighted area
  Don't forget to lock your car!
• Consider using a self-storage facility, especially for specialty items such as stereos and televisions
  Rent or purchase a high-security lock recommended by the facility.
• Have a trusted neighbor or friend check on your place
  They can be helpful when feeding pets and picking up mail and newspapers.
• Tell a friend or relative where you are going
  Leave a contact number and your return date.
• Use an answering machine to answer your calls
  Check your messages from time to time.
• Have a mechanic service your car
  Plan your route and keep a map, cell phone and extra cash on hand in case of an emergency. Don't forget your cell phone battery charger.
• Allow yourself plenty of travel time
  Don't drive when you're tired or have been drinking.
• Be careful of what and how much you drink!
  Never lose control of your situation and surroundings. Never lose sight of your drink. Don't leave a bar alone or with a stranger - only go with friends

For more information, call the Tallahassee Police Department's Crime Prevention Unit at 850-891-4251

Party Facts

The Tallahassee Police Department is accustomed to the presence of noise and party related problems. It is only when parties compromise the personal safety of citizens, impact the private property of another citizen, or negatively impact the quality of life within neighborhoods that TPD takes action.

We do not proactively seek out parties to make enforcement efforts. However, if a neighbor or any impacted person calls to complain about a party or noise problem, the Tallahassee Police Department will respond to assist with that complainant. Party hosts may also call to request assistance with shutting down an out-of-control party.

Best Advice for a Safe and Successful Party

• Ask your neighbors' permission before throwing a party.
• Agree to clean up after the party.
• Leave a telephone number where your neighbors can call you directly.
• Keep party attendance to a reasonable number.
• Dismiss or remove the unruly or uninvited.
• DO NOT allow underage drinking. Even a single underage drinker can result in not only their arrest, but also you as the party's host (Open House Party, Florida Statute 856.015).
• Make transportation arrangements for anyone who could be considered an impaired driver.
• Accept the potential consequences for party hosts who do not follow the rules. That may include arrests or criminal citation, nuisance abatement action (a civil sanction filed by the City Attorney), university sanctions, parental notifications, fines, and community service hours, and more.
• Review City Ordinance regarding excessive sound (Article IV; Division 2; 12-92 through 12-97)

Parents' Summertime Safety Tips

The Tallahassee Police Department is reminding parents and caregivers that now is the time to take the necessary precautions to ensure your child's safety and welfare during the summer break. TPD has assembled a list of easy to remember safety tips that will help make city residents' summer memorable for the right reasons:

• When riding in a vehicle, make sure children are secured in an approved child safety seat or seat belt. Remember, the back seat is safest!
• When riding a bicycle, skateboard or inline skates, children should wear the proper safety gear including a helmet. Remember to abide by the rules of the road.
• When children are swimming, always make sure an adult is nearby and watching. Never allow children to swim alone! Remember to have children wear sunscreen.
• Instruct children that if they find a gun, don't touch it! Tell them to alert an adult or a police officer.
• Stranger Danger! Remind children that anyone they don't know is a stranger. Tell them never talk to or take candy from a stranger; never take rides from a stranger; never help a stranger look for a lost pet; never open the door for a stranger.
• Make sure children know their complete name, the parent's name and how to contact a parent in an emergency.
• Keep an updated schedule of children's activities and know whom they will be with, how to contact them and when they will return.
• When at parks, shopping malls and public events, be aware of the surroundings and keep children within eyesight.
• Be alert to strangers watching children and report any suspicious persons or activities to the police immediately.
• Make sure children know how to dial 911 if they need help or have an emergency.

TPD hopes these friendly reminders will help residents have a safe and happy summer.

Robbery Prevention

What is a Robbery?

(Florida Statute 812) - Robbery means the taking of money or other property from the custody of a person or owner with the intent to either permanently or temporarily deprive the person or owner through use of force, violence, assault or putting in fear.

It can happen to Anyone, at Anytime, at Anyplace!

• Walk in well-lit areas. If possible, never walk alone.
• Be aware of your surroundings. If you think you are being followed, go to a crowded area.
• Do NOT carry large amounts of money.
• Carry keys in your hand.
• If you observe suspicious persons or activities, call Law Enforcement to investigate.

In the event a robber confronts you

• Do not take any action that could jeopardize your personal safety or the safety of others.
• Remain calm and do as you are told.
• Carefully observe the physical characteristics of the robber.
• Be a good witness. Note as much detail about the suspect(s) as possible.
  (Age, race, height, facial hair, speech, clothing, odor, etc.)

After the robbery:

• When it is safe, notify the police by calling 911.
• Law Enforcement will ask for the following information: location of robbery, whether anyone is injured, the exact time the robber(s) left and their direction of travel, the kind of weapon used, description of the vehicle, the robber(s), their clothing, appearance or unique features, money or items taken, and other information to assist responding officers.
• Protect the scene of the crime. Do Not Touch Anything! You might destroy evidence.
• Ask all witnesses to stay until law enforcement arrives. Allow no one in except the police or emergency personnel.
• Write down all suspect information immediately and do not discuss the robbery with anyone until questioned by the police.

For Businesses

Become security conscious!

• Don't be afraid to call the police if you see something suspicious.
• Keep law enforcement emergency and non-emergency phone numbers handy.
• Maintain Visibility into your place of business
• Never block the view into your business by crowding windows with signs or merchandise.
• Use low display counters and cases to maintain visibility from both inside and outside the business.
• Keep all entrances, exits, and parking areas well lighted
• Secure your cashier operation
• Install barriers high enough to keep unauthorized persons out of the area where cash transactions take place. Place the cash register a safe distance from the door, but not so far back that it is not visible from outside.
• Keep a spare key and phone hidden in the freezer or storeroom.
• Install a hold-up alarm system, with points throughout the business. Periodically test the system with the assistance of the alarm company.
• Keep cash on premises to a minimum.
• Make frequent cash drops at varied times of the day or week. Use two or more employees to make cash drops or use a courier service.
• Keep your safe locked at all times.
• Review robbery procedures and alarm system operations frequently with your employees.
• Keep key holder information up to date with law enforcement and alarm company.
• Use one or more persons to open and/or close the business. There is better safety in numbers.

If you would like a Security Survey or Robbery Awareness Seminar provided at no charge, please contact the Crime Prevention Unit at 850-891-4251.

Crime Stoppers

Crime Stoppers is a nonprofit organization that promotes a partnership between the media, law enforcement, and the community. Big Bend Crime Stoppers was started more than twenty years ago by a group of concerned citizens and the Tallahassee Police Department. Today, the program covers the six counties of the Big Bend: Franklin, Gadsden, Jefferson, Liberty, Leon, and Wakulla.

Citizens with information about a crime are encouraged to call 574-TIPS (8477) or toll free at 1-888-876-TIPS (8477) to anonymously report information to law enforcement. Calls are not recorded nor is caller ID used to identify the caller. The caller is given a unique code number, which can then be used to receive information on the tip. If an arrest is made based on information provided by the caller, the caller is eligible for a reward. The Crime Stoppers Board of Directors, made up of citizens, votes on the reward amounts at the monthly board meeting. If eligible for an award, the caller provides the unique code to the drive-thru teller at a designated bank and receives the cash. The identity of the caller is never known.

Be sure to visit Crime Stoppers website.

Holiday Safety

Tips While Shopping

Many of you will be out shopping for holiday gifts over the next several weeks. Unfortunately, there are some people who want to steal your Holidays. They will be looking for unlocked doors & packages inside vehicles. Here are some holiday shopping safety tips:

• NEVER leave any packages in your vehicle in plain sight. Always put them in your trunk BEFORE you get to your next destination. For example: If you have a number of packages from one store, put them in your trunk BEFORE you arrive at the next store, restaurant, etc. DON'T put your packages in the trunk AFTER you arrive because someone could be watching.
• NEVER leave any personal items in your vehicle in plain sight. This includes money(even loose change), credit cards, cell phones, purses, GPS Units,& computers. Remove your valuables. Any electronic devices are especially popular items to steal.
• ALWAYS park in well-lit areas. Do not park in remote areas. NEVER leave doors unlocked or windows open.
• ALWAYS leave yourself extra time. By giving yourself extra time, you'll get to your destination without having to rush in all of the traffic.
• ALWAYS stay alert to your surroundings, even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things.
• ALWAYS pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.
• ALWAYS avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• NEVER overload yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
• ALWAYS keep a record of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home and notify your credit carrier immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.

Tips While At Home

Many people will travel over the holidays. Here are some tips for you to protect your home whether you stay home or are traveling:

• NEVER leave home without setting the alarm and locking all the doors & windows.
• ALWAYS make sure a trusted neighbor or relative will be checking on your home, picking up newspapers & mail if you are not stopping mail service.
• ALWAYS leave a timer on lights inside the home to give the appearance someone is always there.
• ALWAYS place gifts where they can't be seen through a window. Don't tempt the thieves to play the Grinch and steal your presents.
• NEVER leave valuables and cash unsecure in your home. Now is a great time to consider a safety deposit box or hidden safe to secure all those irreplaceable and valuable items.
• NEVER broadcast your status on social media by checking into stores and locations when away from home. Your "check in" could mean a criminal's invitation to check out your home.
• ALWAYS lock your vehicle doors, garage, home, windows and secure all valuables, every night to prevent burglary while you are home.
• NEVER place your Christmas tree three feet or less from candles, fireplaces, space heaters, and other heat sources.
• ALWAYS use UL-listed lights and extension cords, unplug lights before you change bulbs, and do not overload extension cords or sockets.

If you see something suspicious, call Tallahassee Police at 850-606-5800, or in case of emergencies, dial 911.

If you plan on being out of town, let us know by requesting an extra patrol of your residence or business!