October is Crime Prevention Month, which is a perfect time to check in with our Police Department crime analyst to see how we’re doing. Here’s what she had to say:
Even though Carlsbad’s overall crime rate is lower than the regional average, property crime is still a concern. Here are some interesting stats:
70% of thefts from vehicles in our city are from unlocked cars. The police calls these “crimes of opportunity.”
Most thefts from cars happen at night in residential neighborhoods.
The most common items stolen are garage door openers, purses, backpacks, wallets, gym bags and laptops.
When it comes to home burglaries, open garages and garages with unlocked doors are a top target.
Finally, bikes are another common target, especially when they are left unlocked in front of houses or in an open garage. The same goes for leaving them unlocked in front of storefronts.
So, the good news is that we live in a community known for its safety. The bad news is that this can lead to a false sense of security.
Please, always lock your car, even if it’s in your driveway and even if you’re just leaving it for a few minutes.
Don’t leave valuables in your car.
Close your garage door if you’re not right there to watch it.
Always lock your bike.
Consider installing security cameras and an alarm at your home.
Finally, be the eyes and ears of your neighborhood. If you notice something suspicious, please call us. The non-emergency number is 442-339-2197. If you think a crime is in progress, call 9-1-1.
We often say public safety is a team sport. The city is very proud to have a highly trained, well equipped Police Department. They are here to protect you. And, if you can do your part to reduce opportunities for crime, our community will be an even safer place. Thank you.
If you want to know more about crime in your neighborhood, here is a tool available from the city’s website that lets you enter your address and see recent crimes on a map.
And here is a link to the latest regional report so you can see how Carlsbad compares.
