Vacation Watch

Community Watch:

It is a crime prevention program that involves citizens working with each other and with law enforcement agencies to reduce crime and victimization in their communities. It is basically neighbors watching out for each other. Its intention is to make criminals aware that if they commit a crime in a Community Watch Neighborhood, it will be reported to the police. It involves: Citizens protecting themselves and their property by using common sense crime prevention practices and neighbors getting to know each other, watching out for each other, and acting on or reporting suspicious activities. You can start your own community watch in Burlington by contacting Bobby Davis. He can provide you with the necessary materials and offer technical advice. Then set up a meeting with as many neighbors as possible, plan to meet in a church, school, or in someone's home.

Vacation Watch:

If you are interested in having a vacation check of your residence conducted while you are away, please come by the department during regular business hours. Below are some tips to keep your home safe while you are away:

• Do not publicize the fact that you are going away
• Put lights and a radio on timers
• Burn an outside light all night, not just when you are away
• Do not close your blinds or curtains, if you do not usually do so when you are at home
• Do not stop deliveries: have a neighbor pick them up for you, as well as circulars that accumulate
• Make arrangements to have the lawn cut while you are away
• Turn your telephone ringer down to low or turn on the answering machine. Do not leave messages saying that you are on vacation or when you will return home
• Store items such as lawn furniture, garden tools, and hanging baskets in a secure area of your residence
• Ask neighbors to look out for your residence while you are away
• Consider asking a neighbour to park a vehicle in your driveway during your absence
• Leave a phone number with your neighbour where you can be contacted in case of emergency