Burglary Prevention Tips: Vacation Checks and Home Inventories

From Fremont Police

Residential Burglaries continue to be a problem and many are preventable. This week we are highlighting a unique service that is provided by the Fremont Police Volunteer Unit and steps you can take in case you unexpectedly become a victim of a burglary." 

BURGLARY PREVENTION TIP(s) OF THE WEEK: “Vacation Home Security Checks and How to Inventory Your Home” 

Tip No. 1 - Vacation Home Security Check 

Did you know that the Fremont Police Department offers “FREE” Vacation Checks? We have a dedicated group of patrol volunteers, who would be more than happy to check on your residence or business while you are away relaxing on vacation. 

To request a visit and/or learn more about the service go to:www.fremontpolice.org/VacationRequestForm or by phone at (510)790-6740. Requests must be received 5 days prior to your trip. 

Vacation checks are not to be used as a substitute for security measures. You will still need to arrange to have mail and newspapers picked-up by a neighbor or trusted friend, so they do not accumulate and alert burglars during your absence. Volunteers do not go into backyards. Checks are front yard perimeter checks only and there is no guarantee that vacation checks will be done daily. 

Tip #2 - How to Inventory Your Home 

- Compile a list of all valuable and sentimental items in your home. Your list should include the make, model, color, type, serial number, cost and location of each item. 
- Keep two copies of the list. One copy should stay in an accessible, but hidden location in your home and the other in a safe location (bolted safe, safety deposit box or with a trusted family member. 
- Mark valuable items (when possible) with your CA Drivers License or ID card. 
- Take photos and videos and keep them with your inventory list. 

While we hope that you don't become a victim of burglary, having an inventory list on hand will help make a stressful situation feel a little more comforting, knowing that you can account for all of your valuables. 

We ask that you continue to be alert for suspicious people and vehicles in your neighborhood. Report suspicious activity, as it occurs, to the Fremont Police Department at (510) 790-6800 and select option 3. If you believe you are witnessing a crime in progress, dial 9-1-1.

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