Crime Prevention & Security

LIVE OAK TRACE HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATION CRIME PREVENTION DISTRICT INFORMATION

https://legiscan.com/LA/text/SB627/id/646058

SECURITY & NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH

Acts of crime in our neighborhood can ultimately affect us all. The prompt dissemination of information about threats to the health, safety and welfare of our neighborhood can be very helpful in preventing repeat occurrences. It cannot only alert your neighbors to take additional precautions, but assist in the identification and apprehension of perpetrators. In the timely sharing of information about your personal experience with burglary, vandalism or other unlawful events, you assist us all in keeping our neighborhood a safer place to live. You can share your updates by e-mailing [email protected].

Be Secure!

There are many things you can do to improve your personal security, your home, your vehicles, and personal belongings.

Use the Home Security Checklist - This easy to use checklist is a first step toward improving your security. Print it and start today!
Report All Suspicious Activities - Law enforcement officials urge residents to report all suspicious activities in their neighborhoods, and to report all burglaries and other crimes, no matter how small. If they don't know about break-ins they cannot increase patrols and search for the culprits. Dial 911 for emergencies, and for non-emergenices call 225-654-9393.
Install and Use An Alarm System - One of the best investments a homeowner can make is the installation of a home security system that is monitored at a central station. Newer systems can utilize wireless communications along with video surviellance and remote access. Most vendors also provide the homeowner with window decals and a small yard sign as an additional deterrent to burglars. If you've been putting off the installation of a security system, take the time today to make appointments with a couple of vendors for a survey and estimate. Once installed, use your system. Arm the system when you leave home, even if it is just for a few minutes.
Inventory and Mark Valuable Items - Take an inventory of valuable items in case of burglary or theft. Include make, model and serial number, description, photo, etc. Keep the inventory in a safe place away from home. Mark all valuable items such as computers, electronics, etc., with your name and other contact information suggested by local law enforcement, using an etching device or other permanent labeling.
Beware of Strangers - A neighbor in nearby area reported that her purse and other valuables were stolen from her house while she was working in her yard. A stranger stopped in front of her house and asked for directions and while she was talking to the woman, an accomplice gained entry to the victim's house through an unlocked back door. Beware of strangers. Keep your doors locked while working in the yard, visiting next door or walking the dog.
Lock Your Doors and Secure Outdoor Items - Unfortunately, two of the most frequently reported crimes are the easiest to prevent: 1) burglars entering homes with unlocked entrance doors; and 2) burglars walking way with tools and recreational items left unattended in yards or carports and in unlocked storage rooms or utility buildings.
Plan Ahead for Going Out of Town - Before leaving for a vacation or an out of town trip, arrange to have a neighbor pick up newspapers and your mail. Unfortunately, paper deliveries may continue even if you call to stop delivery. Don't advertise to burglars that you're away by leaving newspapers in the driveway and a mailbox stuffed with a week's mail. Invest in a couple of indoor light and appliance timers and use them to give the appearance that someone is at home. Music playing and bright lights are deterrents to break-ins. Ask a neighbor to park their car in your driveway to give the appearance of someone being at home. Don't tell people who don't need to know that you'll be away.
Car Break-Ins - Install and use a car alarm with ignition by-pass. Always lock your car and arm the alarm, no matter how briefly you'll be away from it. Don't leave valuables in your car, especially in plain view. Leave a light on in your carport or driveway at night.
Locking Gas Caps - Now that the price of gas has reached record levels, gas thieves are becoming more brazen. Many newer cars have locked gas caps, and if yours doesn't, you should consider investing in a good quality locking gas cap. Always park in a lighted area when away from home.
Support Neighborhood Watch - Neighborhood Watch is one of the most effective ways to prevent crime, attend to home and personal security, address the safety of your children and the elderly and reduce fear and isolation. Civic involvement, collaborative problem solving and mutual commitment have helped cities and neighborhoods reduce crime by significant number

Neighborhood Watch

Neighborhood Watch is one of the oldest and most effective crime prevention programs in the country, bringing citizens together with law enforcement to deter crime and make communities safer.

Sponsored by the National Sheriffs' Association (NSA), Neighborhood Watch can trace its roots back to the days of colonial settlements, when night watchmen patrolled the streets. The modern version of Neighborhood Watch was developed in response to requests from sheriffs and police chiefs who were looking for a crime prevention program that would involve citizens and address an increasing number of burglaries.

Launched in 1972, Neighborhood Watch counts on citizens to organize themselves and work with law enforcement to keep a trained eye and ear on their communities, while demonstrating their presence at all times of day and night. (The program took off quickly: in just ten years, NSA data showed that 12 percent of the population was involved in a Neighborhood Watch.) Neighborhood Watch works because it reduces opportunities for crime to occur; it doesn't rely on altering or changing the criminal's behavior or motivation. [Courtesy National Crime Prevention Council]

Benefits of Neighborhood Watch

Deters criminal activity
Creates a greater sense of security and reduces fear of crime
Builds bonds with neighbors; people look out for one another; it stimulates neighborhood awareness
Reduces the risk of becoming a crime victim; it reduces the physical, financial and psychological costs of crime
Instructs residents on how to observe and report suspicious activities in your community
Addresses quality of life issues and mutual interests in your community

Security Links of Interest

Zachary Police Department

http://www.zacharypd.org/

This web site includes information in the following categories, plus many links: Personal Safety; On Foot; In Your Car; When Using Public Transportation; ATM Machine; Keeping Kids Safe; Make Sure Your Kids Know!; Safeguard Your Children; Home Alone! What Kids Should Know...; Safe at Home; For Apartment Dwellers; When You Go Away; Reducing Violence; Helping Victims of Crimes; Avoiding Fraud & Scams; Quick Tips; and Dialing for Your Dollars.

LA Attorney General Consumer Disputes and Cyber Safety Division

https://www.ag.state.la.us/ConsumerDisputes

https://www.ag.state.la.us/Article/45/0