Crime Prevention

Package theft is a prevalent issue, especially around the holiday season, but with some precautions and vigilance, you can significantly reduce the risk. Here are some steps you can take to prevent package theft at your home:

Choose Secure Delivery Options: Opt for delivery services that offer secure delivery options, such as requiring a signature upon delivery or selecting in-store or locker pickups for your packages.

Install Security Cameras: Install security cameras near your front door and other entry points. Visible cameras can act as a deterrent and provide evidence in case of theft.

Use Smart Doorbells: Smart doorbell cameras allow you to monitor your front door remotely. They can also provide notifications when someone is at your door, allowing you to communicate with delivery personnel or deter potential thieves.

Request Discreet Packaging: Ask your retailers or delivery services to use discreet packaging to prevent the visibility of valuable items from the outside.

Track Your Packages: Utilize package tracking services provided by the shipping companies. This will help you know exactly when your package is due to arrive so you can plan to be home or make arrangements.

Secure Delivery Instructions: Provide specific delivery instructions to the carrier, like leaving the package in a less conspicuous area or with a trusted neighbor.

Be a Good Neighbor: Establish a good rapport with your neighbors and offer to keep an eye on each other's packages. A strong sense of community can discourage potential thieves.

Time Deliveries Wisely: If possible, request delivery during times when you or someone you trust is home, or consider having packages delivered to your workplace.

Lockboxes or Secure Containers: Invest in a secure lockbox or container designed for package deliveries. Some of these are equipped with electronic locks and secure storage compartments.

Notify Law Enforcement: If you notice any suspicious activity or believe your packages have been stolen, report it to the Pelham Police Department immediately.

Participate in Neighborhood Watch Programs: Consider joining or starting a neighborhood watch program to increase security awareness and cooperation among neighbors. Nextdoor is a good tool for this.

Home Security Systems: A comprehensive home security system can help deter thefts and notify you and the authorities if there is a breach.

By following these steps and fostering a sense of community, you can significantly reduce the risk of package theft.

Vehicle break-ins are crimes of opportunity, but by taking proactive measures, you can reduce the risk significantly. Here are some important steps to follow:

Lock Your Vehicle: Always lock your car doors and roll up the windows when your vehicle is unattended, even if you're only going to be away for a short period.

Park in Well-Lit Areas: Choose well-lit and busy parking areas, especially at night. Avoid parking in dark, secluded, or poorly lit locations.

Utilize Garage or Driveway Parking: Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a secure garage or on your driveway. This provides an additional layer of security.

Install Security Cameras: Install security cameras near your front door and other entry points. Visible cameras can act as a deterrent and provide evidence in case of theft.

Install a Car Alarm: Consider installing a car alarm system or using a vehicle security app. These can deter potential thieves and alert you to any unauthorized entry.

Hide Valuables: Remove valuable items such as electronics, wallets, bags, and even loose change from plain sight. Thieves are less likely to target your vehicle if there's nothing visible to steal. Also, avoid leaving sensitive documents like registration, insurance, or IDs in your vehicle. Store these securely in your home.

Park Head-In and Close to Obstacles: Park with the front of your vehicle facing out so that thieves can't easily access the trunk. Additionally, park close to obstacles such as walls or other vehicles.

Keep an Eye on Your Surroundings: Stay aware of your surroundings when returning to or exiting your vehicle. If something feels off, trust your instincts and stay safe.

Participate in Neighborhood Watch Programs:  Join or establish a neighborhood watch program to enhance vigilance and security awareness in your community. Nextdoor is a good tool for this.

Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice any suspicious behavior around your vehicle or others, report it to the Pelham Police Department immediately.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of your vehicle being broken into. 

Here are steps you can take to prevent your vehicle from being stolen:

Lock Your Vehicle: Always lock your car doors and roll up the windows when your vehicle is unattended, even if it's just for a brief moment.

Take the Keys with You: Never leave your vehicle running and unattended, even for a moment. Always take the keys with you. Also, never leave spare keys, key fobs, or any type of ignition key inside your vehicle.

Use Anti-Theft Devices: Install a steering wheel lock or a steering column collar. These visible deterrents can make it difficult for thieves to drive your car. Also, consider a car alarm system with a visible indicator light and a loud siren. Thieves are less likely to target vehicles with alarms.

Install a GPS Tracking System: A GPS tracking system can help you locate and recover your vehicle if it's stolen. Some systems also offer remote immobilization capabilities.

Use a Vehicle Immobilizer: Immobilizers prevent your vehicle from starting without the correct key or electronic fob. They can be factory-installed or added aftermarket.

Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Remove all valuables from your car, including electronics, bags, wallets, and personal documents. Thieves may break into a car if they spot something valuable.

Secure the Garage: If you have a garage, use it to park your vehicle. Ensure the garage is locked and consider installing a garage door opener with security features.

Park in Well-Lit Areas: When parking in public spaces, choose well-lit and busy areas. Thieves prefer darkness and isolation to avoid detection.

Use a Club or Disklock: These are visible steering wheel and tire locks that deter thieves by making it difficult to steer or move the vehicle.

Consider Electronic Vehicle Security: Modern vehicles often come with advanced security features, such as keyless entry systems and engine immobilization. Ensure they are activated and functioning.

Park with Wheels Turned Toward the Curb: This makes it more difficult for thieves to tow your vehicle.

Install Security Cameras: If you have a driveway or a parking area, install security cameras to monitor your vehicle. The presence of cameras can deter thieves.

Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice suspicious individuals or activities around your vehicle or in your neighborhood, report it to the Police Department immediately.

Participate in Neighborhood Watch Programs: Join or create a neighborhood watch program to enhance security awareness and cooperation in your community. Nextdoor is a good tool for this.

Gift card scams start with a call, text, email, or social media message. Scammers will say almost anything to get you to buy gift cards — like Google Play, Apple, or Amazon cards — and hand over the card number and PIN codes. These scams have become increasingly prevalent and can take various forms, such as the IRS scam, tech support scam, and lottery scam. Here's a general description of how gift card scams work:

Common Scenarios

IRS or Tax Scam: Scammers may impersonate tax authorities and claim that you owe back taxes. They threaten arrest or legal action unless you pay with gift cards.

Tech Support Scam: Fraudsters pretend to be tech support agents and convince victims that their computer has a virus or a security issue. They demand payment with gift cards for "fixing" the problem.

Grandparent Scam: Scammers impersonate a family member, often a grandchild, in distress and ask for gift card payments to cover emergencies.

Lottery or Prize Scam: Victims are told they've won a lottery or prize, but they must pay taxes or fees with gift cards to claim their winnings.

What to Pay Attention to When Receiving a Suspicious Call

Threats or Urgency: Scammers often use scare tactics, threats of arrest, deportation, or legal action to pressure you into complying. Legitimate organizations and authorities will not demand immediate payment via gift cards over the phone.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Scammers might say to put money on an eBay, Google Play, Target, or Apple gift card. They might send you to a specific store — often Walmart, Target, CVS, or Walgreens. Sometimes, they will tell you to buy cards at several stores so cashiers won’t get suspicious. The scammer also might stay on the phone with you while you go to the store and load money onto the card. If this happens to you, hang up. It’s a scam.

Too Good to Be True: If the offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be skeptical of unexpected windfalls, such as lottery wins, especially if you didn't enter any contests.

Request for Payment in Gift Cards: No legitimate organization or government agency will ask you to pay a debt, fine, or service fee with gift cards. This is a red flag.

Caller ID Spoofing: Scammers often use technology to manipulate caller ID information, making it appear as though they're calling from a legitimate organization or government agency. Don't trust caller ID alone.

Privacy and Confidentiality: Scammers may ask you to keep the call or transaction confidential. Legitimate organizations don't typically require such secrecy.

What to Do If You Suspect a Gift Card Scam

Hang Up: If you receive a call that raises suspicions, hang up immediately. Do not engage with the caller.

Verify: If you're unsure about a call or the legitimacy of a request, independently verify the information. Contact the organization or government agency directly using the contact information you find through an official website or phone directory.

Do Not Share Card Information: Never provide gift card information, including the card number and PIN, to anyone over the phone or through email.

Report the Scam: Report the scam to your local law enforcement, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and your state's Attorney General's office. This helps authorities track and combat fraud.

Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about common scams and educate friends and family, especially vulnerable individuals like seniors, about the risks and warning signs.

Gift card scams are designed to exploit people's fears and desires, making it essential to remain vigilant and cautious when receiving unsolicited phone calls or offers that seem suspicious. Remember that legitimate organizations and government agencies do not request payment in gift cards, and you should always verify the authenticity of such requests independently.

Burglaries at Businesses

Here are steps that business owners can take to deter burglaries and enhance security:

Security Assessment: Conduct a thorough security assessment of your business premises. Identify vulnerable areas and potential entry points that a burglar might target.

Security System: Install a comprehensive security system, including burglar alarms, surveillance cameras, and access control systems. Ensure that the alarm system is monitored by a reputable security company.

Motion-Activated Lighting: Install motion-activated lighting inside and around the exterior of your business. Well-lit areas can deter burglars.

Secure Entry Points: Reinforce doors and windows with high-quality locks and shatter-resistant glass. Consider using security bars, grilles, or laminated glass for added protection.

Access Control: Implement access control measures to restrict who can enter your business. Use key cards, key fobs, or biometric systems to control access to sensitive areas.

Secure the Perimeter: Use fencing, gates, and bollards to secure the perimeter of your property. Ensure that the fencing is difficult to climb and not easily cut through.

Inventory Control: Keep valuable inventory, equipment, and sensitive information secure. Use locked cabinets and safes for important documents and assets.

Employee Training: Train your employees on security protocols, such as locking doors and setting alarms, and the importance of not sharing access codes or keys.

Key Control: Limit the number of people with access to keys and maintain a strict key control policy. Rekey or change locks when employees with access leave the company.

Exterior Video Surveillance: Install visible surveillance cameras outside the premises. Signage indicating the presence of cameras can act as a deterrent.

Burglar-Resistant Safes: Use high-quality safes to store cash and valuable assets and ensure the safe is securely anchored to the floor.

Security Policies: Develop and implement comprehensive security policies that outline procedures for opening and closing the business, handling cash, and responding to security incidents.

Emergency Response Plan: Create an emergency response plan that includes contact information for law enforcement, alarm companies, and key personnel. Train employees on what to do in case of a break-in. Be sure your contact information is on file with the Pelham Dispatch Center, especially for those we may need to reach in the overnight hours.

Regular Maintenance: Keep security systems, lighting, and locks in good working order through regular maintenance and inspections.

Regular Surveillance Checks: Periodically review surveillance footage to identify any unusual activity or potential security breaches. It's also essential to stay informed about current security threats and regularly update your security measures to address evolving risks.

Home Burglaries

Here are steps that homeowners can take to deter burglaries and enhance home security:

Lock All Entry Points: Always lock doors and windows when leaving your home, even if it's just for a short time. Use deadbolt locks for added security on exterior doors.

Secure Sliding Doors and Windows: Reinforce sliding glass doors with bars or rods to prevent them from being forced open. Use window locks on all windows.

Install a Home Security System: Consider installing a monitored home security system that includes alarms, motion sensors, and window and door sensors.

Visible Security Measures: Display security system signs and window stickers prominently to deter potential burglars. Visible security cameras can also act as a deterrent.

Motion-Activated Lighting: Install motion-activated lighting inside and around the exterior of your home, especially at entry points and along pathways.

Secure the Garage: Ensure your garage is secure by locking the doors and windows. Install a garage door opener with security features. Store valuable tools and equipment securely.

Landscaping and Visibility: Trim bushes and trees near windows and entry points to eliminate hiding spots for burglars. Maintain good visibility of your property from the street.

Access Control: Use peepholes or a video doorbell to see who's at your front door without opening it. Avoid opening the door to strangers.

Lock Doors When at Home: Keep doors locked when you're at home, and don't open the door for strangers without verifying their identity.

Spare Key Safety: Avoid hiding spare keys outside. Instead, give spare keys to trusted neighbors or family members.

Inventory and Documentation: Maintain an inventory of valuable items and their serial numbers. Take photos and store important documents in a secure location. Download our Personal Property Worksheet (PDF)

Social Media Caution: Be cautious about sharing vacation plans or other extended absences on social media. It can signal an empty home to potential burglars.

Community Involvement: Get to know your neighbors and consider joining or starting a neighborhood watch program. Look out for each other's properties. Nextdoor is a good tool for this.

Safe Storage: Store valuable items like jewelry, electronics, and important documents in a home safe or secure location.

Windows and Blinds: Use curtains or blinds to prevent potential burglars from seeing inside your home and identifying valuable items.

Regular Maintenance: Keep your home's security measures, such as locks and security systems, in good working order through regular maintenance and inspections.

Key Control: Limit the number of people with access to keys and change locks if keys are lost or if a roommate or employee moves out.

Emergency Response Plan: Create a plan for family members on how to respond in case of a break-in, including contacting law enforcement and seeking shelter in a safe area.

Staying informed about security threats and regularly updating your security measures is also essential to address evolving risks.

Avoiding confrontation is an important strategy to prevent assault because it can help de-escalate potentially dangerous situations and protect your safety. Confrontations, whether they involve verbal arguments or physical altercations, can quickly escalate into assault, causing harm to all parties involved. Here's why avoiding confrontation is crucial:

Escalation of Violence: Confrontations can quickly escalate into physical violence, potentially leading to assault, injuries, or even severe harm. Avoiding confrontation can help prevent the situation from reaching that point.

Personal Safety: Avoiding confrontation is a primary means of protecting your personal safety. Engaging in physical or verbal confrontations can put you at risk of injury or legal consequences.

Legal Consequences: In many jurisdictions, self-defense laws may not protect you if you engage in confrontations that lead to violence. You could potentially face legal consequences for your actions, even if you believe you were acting in self-defense.

Types of Assault

Physical Assault: Involves the intentional use of force to cause physical harm or injury to another person. Examples include punching, hitting, kicking, or any physical attack.

Verbal Assault: Involves using offensive, threatening, or abusive language with the intent to harm, intimidate, or harass another person. It can lead to emotional or psychological harm.

Sexual Assault: Encompasses any non-consensual sexual activity, from unwanted sexual advances to rape. Sexual assault is a criminal offense and should be reported to the authorities.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon: This involves the use of a weapon, such as a firearm, knife, or any other object, to threaten or cause harm to another person.

Domestic Violence: Assault that occurs within a domestic or familial relationship, often involving physical, emotional, or psychological abuse.

What to Do If You Are Assaulted

If you are assaulted, it's essential to prioritize your safety and well-being while taking appropriate actions:

Seek Safety: If you are in immediate danger, get to a safe location as quickly as possible. Call 911.

Preserve Evidence: If safe to do so, try to preserve evidence of the assault. This may include taking photographs of injuries or saving any relevant text messages, emails, or other documentation.

Contact the Authorities: Report the assault to the police. Provide as much detail as possible, including descriptions of the perpetrator and any witnesses. If the circumstances don't indicate the need for a police report, you can request one for documentation purposes.

Medical Attention: Seek medical attention, even if you don't have visible injuries. Injuries or trauma may be internal or not immediately apparent.

Document the Incident: Write down a detailed account of the assault, including what led to the incident, the events during the assault, and any statements or threats made by the perpetrator.

Reach Out for Support: Contact a trusted friend, family member, or counselor for emotional support and assistance. Assault can have lasting psychological effects.

Street Robbery

Preventing robbery involves a combination of awareness, personal safety measures, and risk reduction strategies. Here are steps to help prevent someone from falling victim to a robbery:

Stay Alert and Aware: Pay attention to your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar or high-risk areas. Avoid distractions like using your phone or wearing headphones when walking alone.

Avoid Risky Areas: Be cautious in poorly lit or secluded areas, especially during nighttime. Try to walk in well-lit, populated areas.

Travel in Groups: Whenever possible, travel with friends or in groups. There is safety in numbers, and potential robbers are less likely to target larger groups.

Plan Routes in Advance: Plan your routes ahead of time and let someone know your whereabouts and expected return time. Inform friends or family of any changes to your plans.

Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or you sense danger, trust your instincts and leave the area or seek help immediately.

Carry Only What You Need: Don't carry excessive cash, jewelry, or expensive items if they are not necessary. Keep valuable possessions hidden and secure.

Use ATMs Wisely: Use ATMs during the daytime and in well-lit, populated areas. Be discreet and shield your PIN when entering it.

Avoid Displaying Wealth: Refrain from showing off valuable items, including smartphones, high-end watches, or designer bags, which can make you a target.

Keep Your Phone Charged: Ensure your phone is charged and readily accessible in case you need to call for help.

Avoid Isolated Interactions: Be cautious when engaging with strangers who approach you, especially in isolated locations. Politely decline offers for help or information.

Stay in Touch: Regularly check in with friends or family when you are out so they know you are safe.

Don't Open Your Home to Strangers: Be cautious about allowing unknown individuals into your home, and always verify the identity of service providers or delivery personnel.

Learn Self-Defense: Consider taking self-defense classes to learn basic techniques and strategies for personal safety.

Carry Personal Alarms or Safety Apps: Personal alarms or safety apps on your phone can help deter potential attackers or alert others if you feel threatened.

Comply During a Robbery: If confronted by a robber, prioritize your safety and well-being. Comply with their demands, remain calm, and avoid any sudden movements.

Report Suspicious Activity: If you see something suspicious or believe you are being followed, contact the Police Department and provide them with as much information as possible.

Commercial Robbery

Here are steps that business owners can take to deter robberies and enhance business security:

Install a Security System: Invest in a comprehensive security system, including burglar alarms, surveillance cameras, and access control systems. Ensure that the alarm system is monitored by a reputable security company.

Visible Security Measures: Display security system signs and window stickers prominently to deter potential robbers. Visible security cameras can also act as a deterrent.

Motion-Activated Lighting: Install motion-activated lighting around the exterior of your business, especially at entry points and along pathways.

Access Control: Implement access control measures to restrict who can enter your business. Use key cards, key fobs, or biometric systems to control access to sensitive areas.

Physical Security Measures: Reinforce doors and windows with high-quality locks, shatter-resistant glass, and security bars or grilles for added protection.

Emergency Plans and Drills: Develop and regularly practice emergency plans for your employees, including how to respond to a robbery. This can help them stay safe and calm during such incidents. 

Inventory Control: Keep valuable inventory and equipment secure. Use locked cabinets and safes for important documents and assets.

Cash Handling Protocols: Establish secure cash-handling procedures. Limit cash on-site, use drop safes, and frequently deposit money in a secure bank account.

Security Policies: Develop and implement comprehensive security policies that outline procedures for opening and closing the business, handling cash, and responding to security incidents.

Burglar-Resistant Safes: Use high-quality safes to store cash and valuable assets and ensure the safe is securely anchored to the floor.

Employee Training: Train your employees on security protocols, such as recognizing and reporting suspicious activity, as well as how to respond during a robbery. Instruct employees to obey a robber's instructions calmly and politely. Have employees memorize a signal or "code" to alert each other to potential or actual robbers. If robbed, try to memorize as much as possible about the robber's description, including his/her vehicle make and model and the direction he/she fled in.

Bait Money: Designate a small bundle of cash "bait money". Record the serial numbers of these bills and make sure this cash is given to robbers.

Security Screeners and Panic Buttons: Consider installing security screeners and panic buttons that can alert authorities in case of a robbery in progress.

Robbery Deterrence Signs: Display signs that indicate cash registers have limited cash or use time-delayed safes, making your business a less attractive target.

Police-Community Partnerships: Establish a relationship with local law enforcement and collaborate on security concerns and best practices. 

Surveillance Checks: Periodically review surveillance footage to identify any unusual activity or potential security breaches.

Report Suspicious Activity: Encourage employees and customers to report suspicious individuals or behavior to the authorities.