Hi Seal Beach,
Over the last few days, I’ve been watching the news, and it seems like an increase in residential burglaries is occurring across the Southland. Fortunately, although we do not have many residential burglaries in Seal Beach, we thought it would be a good idea to share some crime prevention tips with the community. As we say, crime knows no borders, and if crime is happening in surrounding areas, we need to be extra vigilant to keep Seal Beach safe.
• Strengthen Your Doors and Locks—Ensure that all exterior doors are solid core or metal and are equipped with high-quality deadbolts. Reinforce the door frames and hinges to withstand forceful entry attempts. Consider installing smart locks with keyless entry options for enhanced security.
• Secure Your Windows—Windows are common entry points for burglars. Use window locks and consider installing window sensors or shatter-resistant film. Never leave windows open or unlocked when you are not at home.
• Light Up Your Surroundings—A well-lit home is a strong deterrent to burglars. Install motion-sensor lights around your property, especially at all entry points. Consider using smart lighting that can be controlled remotely to give the appearance that someone is always home.
• Install a Security System—A home security system is one of the most effective ways to deter burglars. Choose a system that includes door and window sensors, motion detectors, and a loud alarm. Opt for a monitored service that can alert the police in case of a break-in.
• Be Mindful of What You Share on Social Media—Burglars often use social media to target homes when residents are away. Avoid posting your vacation plans or photos while you are away. Ensure your social media profiles are set to private and only share such information with trusted individuals.
• Use Landscaping to Your Advantage—Trim bushes and trees near your home to eliminate potential hiding spots for burglars. Consider planting thorny bushes under windows to make access more difficult.
• Secure Valuables in a Safe—Keep your valuables, important documents, and spare keys in a secure safe that is bolted down. This makes it harder for burglars to walk away with your most precious items.
• Don’t Forget the Garage—Garages are often overlooked as entry points. Ensure that your garage doors are secure and consider covering windows to prevent burglars from seeing inside. Use a garage door opener with rolling code technology.
• Get to Know Your Neighbors—A close-knit community is a strong deterrent against crime. Keep an eye on each other’s properties. Alert neighbors can report suspicious activities to the police, helping to prevent burglaries.
The last point is what makes Seal Beach so special, and so many of us are proud to live or work here. Please remember that there is no call too small for the SBPD, and we want to know about every suspicious circumstance and crime. For life-or-death emergencies, call 9-1-1. For anything else, call our non-emergency line at (562) 594-7232.
Keep your questions coming, Seal Beach! Email us at askacop@sealbeachca.gov today!
