It’s the last day of school in Charlotte County!
As vacations begin, the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office is here to help ensure your plans go uninterrupted. Remember that crime, particularly package thefts, tends to increase over the summer. As you’re making your summer plans, here’s a checklist you can use to lower the chances of coming back from vacation to realize you’ve been the victim of a crime.
– Let your trusted neighbors know when you will be on vacation and make sure they have a way to reach you.
-Arrange for someone to pick up your packages, newspapers, and mail. Have them place garbage cans at the curb on your normal pickup day(s) and return them after.
-Double check that all of your doors and windows are locked. If you have an alarm system, make sure it is enabled and that your alarm company has your updated contact information.
-Secure storage sheds, attic, and patio entrances and gates.
-Make arrangements to have your lawn mowed.
-Ask a neighbor to occasionally park in your driveway. If you leave your car at home, park it as you normally would. Vehicles parked outside should be moved occasionally to appear that they are being used.
Staying home for the summer? Stay alert to suspicious activity at your neighbor’s homes, especially if you think they may be away. Call the Sheriff’s Office immediately if you see something that isn’t right. Our non-emergency line to dispatchers is 941-639-0013. Add it to your contact list for easy access! If you have (or see) an emergency, dial 911.
Most importantly, have a great (and safe) summer!
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