BURGLARY

In Arizona, burglary is a major concern for both citizens and law enforcement. Arizona is one of the fastest growing states in population and with it comes the increase in crime. The U.S. Department of Justice defines household burglary as "unlawful entry of a structure to commit a felony or theft." In Arizona, burglary is a major concern for both citizens and law enforcement. In 2007, one burglary was committed every 9 minutes, 26 seconds. There were 55,836 burglaries reported in Arizona in 2007 and the total value of property stolen amounted to $152,211,342.

(Source: Crime in Arizona 2007)

Catching burglars and recovering stolen goods for victims is a long and tedious process. Most residential burglaries occur during the day between the hours of
6 a.m. and 6 p.m. while people are at work. Burglars will scope the neighborhood prior to breaking into a home and if there is any sign that others can see what they are doing, they will move on to another neighborhood. They don't want to risk getting caught.

One way to prevent this from happening to you or your neighbors is by organizing a community watch program. You can contact your local law enforcement agency for more information.

What is a neighborhood watch group?

Neighborhood Watch is simply a program of neighbors watching other neighbors' property. It is designed to enlist the active participation of citizens in cooperation with law enforcement to reduce crime and improve the quality of life in their neighborhoods. The Neighborhood Watch program opens the lines of communication between neighbors, from citizens to law enforcement, and from law enforcement to the citizens.

Tips

10 Quick Tips for Homeowners

• Make sure all doors and windows are locked during the time you are away from home and while you sleep at night.

• Sliding glass doors should be secured. One way to do this is by placing a metal rod or piece of wood that will prevent the sliding glass door from moving.

• Garage doors and doors attached to the garage should always be kept closed and locked if you are not in the garage.

• To deter criminals from picking your home, make sure your porch light and garage light are on during the evening hours. This will give the criminals a sense that you are home.

• Do not leave tools lying around your yard that may help criminals gain entry into your home.

• If you are going to be away on vacation, have one of your neighbors collect your mail. If you do not want to bother your neighbors, you can contact the post office and ask to hold your mail until your return.

• Maintain an everyday appearance in your home by keeping shades, curtains and blinds open.

• Telephone answering machines should have a general message that can be used at all times, even when on vacation.
• We are currently unavailable to answer your call, but please leave your name and phone number and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

• Maintain your landscaping by trimming down bushes to an adequate height. This will prevent criminals from hiding behind them.
  
  
• Invest in a security system and a safe to lock up any valuables. The safe should be bolted down.

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