Indianapolis, IN Crime Information and Alerts

Home Security Advice for Indy

Crime in the city is monitored and controlled by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department. While officers patrol on horseback and bicycles some parts of the city still remain a problem. One easy way to keep your home and family safe is a neighborhood watch group. If your neighborhood has one in place considering joining. If there isn’t, consult your local law enforcement and suggest forming a group. Your neighbors are some of your most reliable allies in keeping the neighborhood secure.

A neighborhood watch group will educate you and your neighbors to recognize and report suspicious activity. Groups mainly focus on observation and leave any criminal interaction to the local authorities. This helps prevent crimes because the groups encourage neighbors to watch out for one another’s home. Because residents are familiar with the neighborhood they have an advantage. They might be able to spot a suspicious car or person more than a passerby simply because they know the neighborhood.    

If you live in a rural area, another great idea is to ask a trusted friend to watch over your house. This is especially important if you are going away for any period of time. Burglars look for key signs that no one is home including: an overflowing mailbox, newspapers piling up in your driveway, and no light or noise coming from the house. By asking a friend to collect your mail and occasionally check in on your home, you’ll create the illusion that someone is there. Remember to always personally give them a key. Never leave one in the mailbox, in a key rock or under the doormat. These are common places for criminals to look.

If you have an Indianapolis home security system, make sure you tell your neighbors. Because most break-ins occur during daytime hours ask your neighbors to be observant if they hear your burglar alarm siren. They might be able to easily spot the thief and give police a description. Offer to keep an eye out for their home in exchange. A network of helpful neighbors will make everyone’s home more secure. This is the leading principle behind neighborhood watch groups and their success.