As Christmas is quickly approaching the North Providence Police Department wants to provide helpful information to our residents and visitors to protect themselves and their valuables.
We are encouraging residents to take steps to protect their property and prevent crime by not presenting crimes of opportunity while out shopping or at home. If the doors to your vehicle are locked, the windows are fully closed and you do not leave valuables (cell phones, GPS systems, loose change, portable DVD players, computers, gifts, ipods, etc.) in sight you can dramatically reduce the likelihood of being a victim of crime. It is also advisable not to leave the “cigarette lighter” chargers or bracket for your GPS system (or other electronics) attached to the windshield since this is a clue that a valuable device may be located within your vehicle.
It is also worthwhile to mention that Christmas gifts and large shopping bags should not be visible in the vehicle. The best place to store these items is in the trunk.
Homes have also been targeted by thieves during the holiday season. Criminals have broken into homes hoping to steal gifts and other items of value. Measures that can be utilized to protect your home while you are out shopping or celebrating include some of the following:
- Lock all doors and windows
- Leave lights on, or install a timer
- Leave a radio or television on, or install a timer to give the impression that someone is home
- Activate your alarm system if your home is equipped with one
Recently, packages that have been delivered to homes have been stolen shortly after being delivered. Large boxes and packages have been stolen when left outside of the home on a porch, entryway, etc. To help prevent this type of crime, it is advisable to make arrangements with package delivery companies to coordinate the arrival of packages, if practical, with times when someone is home. You may also request that a signature is required when a package is being delivered or ask to pick up the package at the delivery companies location or store. Another common method is to have the package delivered to your place of employment. If you have a security camera installed ensure that it is positioned to capture your front door, and ensure that it is plainly visible to act as a deterrent.
The North Providence Police Department wants to promote active participation amongst residents to report suspicious activity when it is observed. The public is a valuable partner in the prevention and solving of crime. Therefore, please take steps to be observant and contact us if you see something suspicious. For example,:
- You know your neighbor is not home but see a strange vehicle in the driveway, a strange person in the home or in the yard
- You notice a strange person enter a yard and take a package that was recently left by a delivery company (obtain a registration plate and description of suspect, if possible)
- You notice a vehicle that appears to be following a delivery company van
- You notice other suspicious activity
Please call the North Providence Police Department at 231-4533 to report matters that appear out of the ordinary. Our officers will respond and investigate your complaint and observations as quickly as possible.
For media inquiries, please contact Deputy Chief Arthur Martins at 231-4533 Ext. 102.
