Harbour Inlet is one of the safest neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale, but as the police tell us that is no reason for complacency. The local police report to the Harbour Inlet Association board every month and we have a very low crime rate in the neighborhood. However, in recent months vandals have broken into some residents’ cars. The police did manage to catch the perpetrator and it was one person who had returned to the neighborhood a few times. Worth noting is that almost all of the cars were unlocked. To avoid such incidents and others here are a few tips from the FLPD to keep you and your possessions safe:
- Lock your doors – many times vandals will try for an easy hit – unlocked car doors or homes. You should keep your car doors locked at all times, even if the car is parked in your driveway. Keep possessions out of sight and never leave valuables such as wallets, electronics or guns in your car. While these tips may seem like common sense most of our recent events have been thefts from unlocked cars.
- Be aware of your surroundings – when shopping or banking we need to be aware of our surroundings at all times. If you bring bags back to your car and intend to return to the store or mall, make sure the bags are out of sight. Thieves often wait in the parking lot until someone drops bags off in their car and then try to steal them, especially if they are from appealing stores such as Apple. Some are now following people home and stealing bags from cars while people unload their packages. Check to make sure no one unusual is around when you return from a shopping trip.
ATM crime continues to be an issue at some bank branches. Again, thieves often wait in the parking lot and approach people at their cars after they are observed making a withdrawal. Cover your PIN number and where possible use a drive through ATM to minimize risk.
- Secure your home – there are several ways to make your house more secure including the Ring doorbell system, security cameras and alarms. Try to plan package deliveries for times when you will be home or ask a neighbor to take it in, as thieves often steal packages from front porches. This type of crime is increasing all over as deliveries from e-commerce sites become more popular.
- Beware of tax season scams – the police have reminded us that the IRS does not contact people by phone or email. If someone calls claiming to represent the IRS or emails you, do not respond, and under no circumstances provide any personal or financial details. Instead contact the IRS yourself to determine if they are trying to reach you.
Bottom line – for the safety of you and your possessions use common sense and be alert at all times.