WCSO Fall Safety Guide

With every seasonal change, we want to remind community members of some potential challenges that can impact your personal safety and property. Consider these safety measures to help protect yourself and loved ones, especially from those seeking to commit crimes of opportunity.

• ALWAYS be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to who and what is around you, especially if you're alone or it's dark. Consider putting your phone and headphones away and staying in well-lit areas.
• Wear reflective clothing if walking, running, or biking outdoors in low-light conditions and avoid distractions. Wearing reflective clothing helps you stay visible; drivers can see you better. It’s also safer when nothing impairs your vision or hearing like phones or headphones.
• Lock your vehicle and park in a safe location. Always lock your car – whether entering or exiting and have your keys in your hand when approaching it. Park in a well-lit location and designated parking areas if possible. Remove valuables from your car to avoid potential break-ins.
• Secure your home and valuables. Lock up your home and ensure all entry points such as doors, windows, garages, and sheds are securely locked. Turn on exterior lights, security cameras, alarm systems, and motion sensors to increase visibility. Bring in all valuables from your car, yard, or patio to discourage theft.
• Protect yourself from mail theft. Purchase a secure mailbox with a lock and check your mailbox daily. Have checks directly deposited into your bank account and sign up for paperless mailings instead if possible. If out of town, have a trusted person check your mailbox or place a hold on your mail through the U.S. Postal Service.

This fall, remember to be safe and aware of locations and situations that would make you vulnerable to crime. If you see something, say something.

Report any suspicious activity to your local police department. As a reminder, call 911 for emergencies and 503-629-0111 for non-emergencies. You can also file a police report online if the crime fits the reporting requirements.