The Fort Lauderdale Police Department's Crime Prevention Unit would like to remind all of our residents, business owners, and visitors, to remain vigilant when it comes to our everyday tasks.

Here are a few reminders to assist in preventing crime and to ensure your safety.

 Always be aware of your surroundings.

Trust your instincts.

 Walk with confidence and purpose.

General Safety

Keep your doors locked, even if you are home or going out for a few minutes. Windows should be closed and locked before leaving your residence. Do not open your door to strangers, solicitors, or uninvited guests. Acknowledge callers thru a locked door or window. Regardless of the circumstances or persuasiveness of the individual (I need help; I need to you to come outside to look at something), advise the person to leave their information at the door. If they continue to request your help, advise them you are calling the police and to wait by the street.

Scam Prevention

Shred everything. This should include all bills, bank or credit card statements, anything that has your name, address, date of birth, social security number, or any other identifiable information on it. Never give out your personal information. This could be over the phone, computer, or in person by ways of unsolicited mail, emails, phone calls, or persons calling or coming to your home. Always verify who you are dealing with.

Vehicle Theft and Auto Burglary Prevention

DESIRE + ABILITY + OPPORTUNITY = CRIME

Even though we may not be able to stop someone’s desire to commit crime, we can take away their ability and/or their opportunity to commit the crime with a few simple acts.

• Lock the doors, close all the windows and activate your car alarm.
• Park in a well-lit location or well-traveled area when possible.
• Never leave your keys, including the fob, inside your car.
• Do not leave valuables inside the car, particularly where they are visible.
• Never leave your vehicle running while it is unattended.
• Carry the vehicle registration and insurance card with you.
• Do not move valuable items to the trunk while in public view.

 WHAT TO DO IF YOUR VEHICLE IS BURGLARIZED OR STOLEN:

As soon as you notice your vehicle has been burglarized or stolen, contact the police to file a report in the jurisdiction where the crime occurred. For crimes that occurred within the City of Fort Lauderdale please contact the Fort Lauderdale Police Department (non-emergency) 954-764-HELP (4357). In an emergency, please call 911.

DON’T CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR CRIME!

REMOVE IT, LOCK IT, OR LOSE IT.

Do not leave any valuables in your car (even for a few minutes). This should include wallets, purses, bags of any sort, GPS systems, cell phones, jewelry, or computers, iPods, iPads, or any other computer tablet.

Do not leave property unattended or unsecured in your yard, along the side of your house or in an open garage. Ex. Tools, generators, bicycles, lawn mowing equipment, etc.

Vacations and traveling are meant to be fun, relaxing, and memorable. The key to having a safe and crime free trip is by preparing your home and educating your travelers before you leave.

HOME SAFETY TIPS

• Receive and share information on the virtual neighborhood watch about suspicious activity in your neighborhood and receive alerts when you are away.
• Lock all the doors and windows to your home and set your alarm system.
• Remove your key fob and garage door opener from vehicles left at your home.
• Ask a trusted family member, friend, or neighbor to keep a watchful eye on your home or have your mail held at the local post office until your return.

• Put lights on timers to give the impression that someone is home.
• Don’t post on social media that you are leaving town and wait to post photos after you return home from your trip.

TRAVELING TIPS

• Ensure you lock your hotel room or vacation rental when inside and upon leaving. Do not give out your room number or invite strangers into your room.
• Be friendly but vigilant. Watch for and report any suspicious behavior.
• Plan your route – stay within well-traveled routes and walk in groups. There is safety in numbers.
• Keep your belongings secure – Purses should be securely closed, backpacks zipped, wallets kept in your front pocket, and cell phones not left unattended. When dining in restaurants do not hang your purse or backpack on the back of your chair.
• Always lock your doors and roll up your windows when you leave your car. Do not leave valuables, including purses and luggage, in the car even if you are going for a short walk or while sightseeing.

• Beware of leaving valuables by the pool or on the beach.  A towel is a poor substitute for security.

Here are a few other crime prevention materials offering guidance to deterring crime and promoting personal safety.

 Residential Checklist

[Download PDF]

 Personal Safety Brochure

[Download PDF]

Crime Prevention For Your Home

 CP For Your Home

Gun Safety

Gun Safety

For additional information on personal, business, or identity safety please feel free to call the Fort Lauderdale Police Department Crime Prevention Unit: 954-828-6421 

To Report an Emergency: 911

For Non Emergency Police or Fire Services: 954-764-HELP (4357)

To Contact the Police Department: 954-828-5700