Police: Lock, Take, Hide in Light of Recent Vehicle Tamperings

Fairfax City police urge residents to hide valuable possessions, lock all doors and windows and keep an eye out for suspicious behavior in light of the recent string of vehicle tamperings in the city.

There were 24 vehicle tampering incidents and a vehicle theft in a Fairfax City neighborhood on Feb. 12. 

The city police department released a notice Friday urging residents to lock their vehicles and stay alert.

In an effort to assist citizens with protecting their property, Fairfax City Police are recommending the following tips:

• Hide or store valuables in a safe place.

• Check to ensure that windows and doors to residences and vehicles are locked.

• Close blinds and curtains limiting visibility inside of your residence.

• Leave a light on in at least one or two rooms of your residence.

• Check to make sure that all outdoor lights are working properly.

• Consider placing at least one motion sensor light on your house.

• If your residence or car is equipped with an alarm, check to make sure it is operational.

• Place the sign of your alarm company in your front yard or attach the sticker to the window of your residence.

• If your neighborhood participates in a Neighborhood Block Watch Program, and has issued a Block Watch sticker, place it somewhere near your residence.

• If you see someone or something suspicious call the police department immediately so that officers can conduct an appropriate investigation.

While efforts are made to provide the highest level of service to citizens through patrol, investigations, and other measures that are used to help combat crime, citizens play an equally important role as well by being vigilant, staying alert, and reporting all suspicious activity to the police.