Raintree Lake reports rise in crime
Posted by GSDispatch Editor in by Raintree Lake POA, GSD Online
Lee’s Summit is experiencing an increase in home burglaries. This alert is not intended to scare anyone but to inform and educate residents to the crime problem. In the month of July, there have been numerous reports of home burglaries in Raintree Lake. There have also been reports of residents finding people in their open garages. Crime prevention is not 100%, but not doing the basics is like putting a sign on the front of your home saying BURGLARIZE ME. What can you do?
Close the garage doors! It does not matter if you are just in the back doing yard work because it only takes 30 seconds to steal a bike, car, golf clubs, etc. Please do not yell at a police officer or a concerned resident who knocks on your door late at night to inform you that your garage door is open. Sure it may be 2 a.m. but think about the alternative of waking up in the morning and finding your $40,000 car, tools, bike and other things gone.
Install Grade 1 deadbolt locks on all your exterior doors and the door leading from the garage into the residence with that wrap around plate. This is a stronger lock and the wrap around plate will help keep the door intact if it is being pried on.
Put at least 3 screws in the strike plate. This will secure the door frame to the first stud in the wall. This will NOT work if you have sidelight windows beside your door. Other devices can help keep the door intact such as a Jambbrace (www.jambbrace.com).
Make sure your outside lights are on. If you are worried about energy usage there are several lower usage bulbs available that you can purchase. Burglars do not want to be seen. Light will deter them from even approaching your home. Several homes burglaries in Raintree have occurred at night.
Keep storm doors locked. This adds another layer of protection and makes it harder to get to your exterior doors. Keep your windows and doors locked at all times.
Several homes have been burglarized while residents have been out of town. Tell one or two trusted friends or neighbors that you are going out of town and have them check on your home. You may also call the police department and ask to be included in the home watch program while you are out of town. Call the Patrol Secretary, Mary at 969-1770. Advanced notice (about a week) is preferred.
Finally, call the police to report any suspicious activity. You know better than anyone else who belongs on your street.
Attend the Raintree Lake August 17th Neighborhood Watch meeting and pick up free brochures on home security.
If you are interested in joining Raintree Lake Neighborhood Watch, e-mail David Mitchell at dmitchellxd40@sbcglobal.net. CRIME PREVENTION BEGINS WITH YOU!
