Public Safety Message: Take Steps to Minimize Burglary Risk

Chief Don HutsonBy Chief Don Hutson

Spring has sprung and Riverton is alive with the beauty we associate with this wonderful time of year.  Flowers are blooming and the young, as well as the young at heart, are spending much more time outside enjoying the warmer weather and longer days.

Pedestrian traffic and bicycle riding increase dramatically for obvious reasons, and motorcycle riding is far more enjoyable and prevalent. These changes in the traffic dynamic on our roadways make visibility more of a challenge and cause us concern as public safety officers. It is important for all of us to be aware of this changing traffic landscape and be more vigilant in identifying potential hazards as we travel on our streets.

Additionally, some in our community, who are inclined to victimize others by stealing their property or burglarizing their homes, take advantage of the milder temperatures. Criminals are aware we are approaching vacation season and they are always looking for an opportunity to break into an empty house or business. It is also easier for them to hide or avoid us tracking them with additional foliage and no snow to leave footprints.

For these reasons, it is a good time for all of us to assess the security of our property and be reminded of how to minimize risk. First, always lock your doors and keep your external lights on at night. If you are leaving town, let your neighbors know who should or should not be at your home so they can keep an eye out for suspicious vehicles. Have someone retrieve your mail and ensure papers or flyers don’t accumulate on your porch.

As always, please don’t hesitate to call the Riverton Police Department if you see something suspicious.  Stay safe and enjoy our beautiful city as we transition from soggy spring to hot summer.

Published April 1, 2020

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