Q. What information may BBB provide on the neighborhood watch programs and safety?
A. National Night Out is a yearly event promoting police-community partnerships. On Aug. 1, the 34th annual National Night Out will help citizens all over the United States and Canada bolster their defenses against crime by strengthening community bonds and educating people on how they can participate in creating safer neighborhoods.
Better Business Bureau has simple tips you can use to stay secure and help make your community safer.
Get to know your neighbors
National Night Out is the perfect way to meet people in your area. Just knowing who your neighbors are is valuable, but establishing relationships really makes a difference in keeping your neighborhood safe from crime.
Neighborhood watch
Form a watch group in your area and report suspect activity. Alert neighbors and police if you see unfamiliar cars driving slowly or individuals acting suspiciously. Keep a list with names and phone numbers of homeowners on your block handy.
Monitor door-to- door sales
Although many legitimate companies solicit door-to-door, con artists use this technique as well. If a door-to-door sales person knocks on your door, know that you do not have to answer the door or allow the person into your home. If you choose to answer, do not commit to purchase any product or service until you have checked the company out with BBB by visiting bbb.org.
Trash and recycling bins
Many people put their collection bins out the night before pick-up. Or they do so just before leaving for work in the morning. In either case, dumpster divers may have an opportunity to dig through your trash for personally identifiable information. Never put financial or personal information in your trash. If you see people going through your trash, call your local police. Do your best to collect your bins the same day sanitation crews have collected trash and recycling.
Shred your documents
Destroy all documents with financial or personal information in a cross shredder. This includes things like bank and credit card statements, stock portfolios, tax returns, ATM and credit/debit card receipts, copies of birth, death, and marriage licenses, vehicle titles, deeds and mortgages, pay stubs and insurance policies.
Mail boxes
Mail theft is one of the primary ways thieves get personal information to perpetrate identity theft. Collect mail as soon as it is delivered, or get a locking mailbox to give you more security. Be on the lookout for bills or a financial statement that do not show up - this is a sign of possible identity theft.
Home security systems
Professional home security systems can be a deterrent to criminals. If you can't afford a complete system, consider relatively inexpensive home security products like motion sensor lights, etched window glass film, tethered safes, patio door reinforcement bars, light timers, and entry alarms. Also, never leave keys in your car - even when it is in your garage.
Vacation safety
While on vacation, let police, trusted neighbors or friends and family know when you will be gone and where and how they can reach you. Having someone check on your home, bring in newspapers and mail, and turn lights on and off can help keep your home safe. If you're going to be away for an extended period, consider a stop order for your newspapers and mail while you are gone.
By working together with your neighbors, you can create a safe community. Participating in National Night Out is a great first step towards stamping out crime on the street where you live. go.bbb.org/neighborhoodsafety.
Jim Winsett in president of the Better Business Bureau in Chattanooga.