If You See Something, Say Something

The title of this article is an actual public service campaign in New York City If You See Something, Say Something

. In New York City this is obviously focused on preventing terrorism, and it actually played a large part in the fast response that we saw to the car bomb in Times Square last weekend. A couple of people felt like the Nissan Pathfinder was out of place and let a couple of local law enforcement officers know. They called for backup and we know what transpired. So, can this mantra work in your own neighborhood? Certainly it can, and here's a few ideas how.

Who knows their neighborhood better than the people who live in it? Actually, no one. So, who better to know if something feels out of place, or just seems wrong for a reason that can't be pinpointed? The situation in Times Square was discovered based purely on the gut feelings of two people who knew the area and just felt like that SUV was out of place. No harm would have been done if they were wrong. For everyone's sake in Times Square that day, they were right.

One of the primary benefits of a neighborhood watch group is familiarity. I lived in the same house from when I was born until I finally left home. I saw the same cars, the same people, even the same visitors week after week, year after year. We knew who belonged there and who didn't. Being mindful and observant of your neighborhood can be a key to not only keeping your home safe from burglars, but also those of your neighbors.

Keep an eye on cars traveling in and out of your neighborhood. You'll be surprised how quickly a pattern starts to emerge. Who comes and who goes at what times of the day; who drives what kind of vehicle. This will give you a very clear picture of who belongs in your neighborhood and who doesn't.

Many people today report that they don't know their neighbors. While there's some truth to this, it's virtually impossible to live in a neighborhood for a long time and not know anyone. Make it a point to walk your neighborhood, to stop and say hello to your neighbors who are out gardening, sitting on their porch, or doing some yard work. The better you know your neighbors, and vice versa, the more likely you will all start looking out for each others' best interest.

Pay attention to who's walking through your neighborhood. Does it seem odd to you that a man, who should otherwise be at work during the middle of the day on a weekday, is walking up and down the sidewalks? It is strange and his behavior should be noted. Professional burglars are very good about casing houses while looking like they're just casually strolling down the sidewalk. Again, if you're paying attention you know who belongs and who doesn't, and something inside you will signal that something just doesn't feel right, or look right.

Finally, you can have a complete home security system like one monitored by ADT. Professional security monitoring ensures that someone is always keeping a close eye on your home and the precious people and possessions inside. Coupled with an ADT yard sign you'll have the power of an incredible crime deterrent. Talk to your neighbors about home security, and looking out for each other. Remember, if you see something, say something. There's no harm in being wrong.

by: Mark Lowry

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