Police Tip Residents on How to Avoid Summer Crime

The Wheaton Police Department provided the following tips Monday on how to avoid summer crime:

Bike Theft Prevention:

• Most bikes are stolen while left unlocked. If you’re not riding it, LOCK IT UP!

Bike Safety Tips:

• Obey the rules of the road.
• Always wear a helmet.
• Wear bright-colored or reflective clothing while riding.
• Always ride with traffic – never against it. 
• Parents should be aware of where their children are going.

Vacation Watch:

• When leaving town on vacation, stop by the police department or visit our website atwww.wheaton.il.us/servicerequest/ to fill out a vacation house watch form. We will keep an eye on your home.
• Have someone pick up your mail and newspapers.
• Leave a lamp on a timer.
• Always lock your home, garage or office.

General Safety:

• Do not leave valuables in your car.
• If you must leave items in your car, put the items in the trunk.
• When driving, always lock your doors.
• If you have small children, check to see if your rear vehicle doors have child safety locks and, if so, activate them. (Your owner’s manual will give you the specifics.)
• Always let loved ones know where you’re going and how to reach you. It could be as simple as a note on the refrigerator, or leaving a message on the answering machine.