Stay safe and secure this season

Published 10:05 am Friday, December 18, 2009

The holidays are some of the biggest traveling and vacation times of the year. They’re also one of the times that sees the highest instances of break-ins.

The Bainbridge Police Department is offering tips to those who plan to take an extended holiday this season.

One month before departure, the department recommends residents do things like repair broken doors and windows and arrange for mail and papers to be stopped or forwarded.

The week before leaving, police recommend mowing the lawn and trim shrubbery, storing all ladders, tools, lawn equipment, etc. in a locked storage shed or garage, and taking valuables to a bank safe deposit box.

The day of the departure residents should set their electric timers to turn on some lights during the evening hours, bolt the garage door on the inside, unplug the electric garage door opener, make sure all doors and windows are locked, and finally leave a key and the phone number with an emergency contact.

As a service to the citizens of Bainbridge Island, the police department offers free vacation house checks, police said.

Officers will periodically check the exterior of homes while residents are away.

This service helps to deter potential burglars and provides for additional security while a house is unoccupied.

To schedule a vacation check, contact the Police Department at 842-5211 or PoliceDept@ci.bainbridge-isl.wa.us.