Crime Prevention Tips

WHY DO POLICE STOP PEOPLE?

THERE ARE MANY DIFFERENT REASONS WHY THE POLICE MIGHT STOP YOU. WHATEVER THE REASON, THE OFFICER NEEDS YOUR COOPERATION.

1. You may have committed a traffic violation.
2. You may fit the description of a suspect.
3. The officer might think you are in trouble and need help.
4. You may have witnessed a crime.

WHEN STOPPED BY POLICE, REMEMBER:

1.  A police officer may pull you over at any time for a traffic offense or police
     investigation.
2.  When you see the red overhead lights and/or hear the siren, remain calm and
     safely pull over parallel to the right side of the road.
3.  Remain in your vehicle unless the officer advises otherwise.
4.  Keep your hands on the steering wheel so the officer can see them.
5.  Avoid any sudden movements, especially toward the floorboard; rear seat
    or passenger side of the vehicle.
6.  Do not immediately reach for your license or other documents until the officer
     requests them. Michigan Law requires drivers to show their license, registration
     and insurance card upon request.
7.  If your documents are out of reach, tell the officer where they are before you reach
     for them.
8.  If the stop occurs during darkness put on your dome or interior lights so the officer
     can easily see that all is in order.
9.  If there are passengers in your vehicle, encourage them to remain quiet and
     cooperate with instructions. You as the operator are solely responsible for your
     vehicle and its occupants.
10. The officer may issue you a ticket. If you feel the reason is vague or unclear, ask
      the officer for the details.
11.  Avoid becoming argumentative. Arguing will not change the officer’s mind. If you
      contest the violation, you will have the opportunity to contest the matter in court.
12. Be honest with the officer. If you really didn’t see the stop sign, or are unaware of
      the speed limit, let the officer know. Being honest about any situation never hurts.
13. Many departments use one-officer patrol cars, especially in the suburbs.
      It would be normal to see two or three marked units on a routine traffic stop.
14. Finally, if you receive a ticket, accept it calmly. Accepting it is not an admission
      of guilt.

GENERALLY, A POLICE OFFICER:

1.  Will provide his or her name upon request.
2.  A police officer who is not in uniform will present proper identification; you may
     request to examine their credentials so that you are satisfied that they are a
     law enforcement officer.
3.  Will inform a person of the reason for being stopped.
4.  Will only use the force necessary to affect the arrest of a suspect and to maintain
     the custody of a prisoner.
5.  Will not search the body of a person of the opposite sex except to prevent injury
     to the officer or another person, or to prevent the disposal or destruction of
     evidence, and
6.  Will only arrest a person for a crime committed in the officer’s presence, or when
     the officer has probable cause to believe the person has already committed
     the crime.
7.  If you have a question about procedures or a complaint about your treatment,
     contact the Department and ask to speak with a supervisor. You may also send
     a letter of compliment if you feel the officer was particularly helpful in your situation.

Protecting Your Home from Burglars

Outside Your Home

Protect your home by starting where the burglars usually start - outside.

Landscaping:

Look around. Are large trees near the house? Prune lower limbs that could help a thief climb in second floor windows. Trim trees and bushes so a burglar cannot use them for cover. High wooden fences also allow a burglar to work unnoticed. Remember to lock up ladders and tools. Ask your neighbors to do the same. Trellises look great, but place them where they cannot be used as ladders to the second floor.
 

Lighting:

Criminals avoid the spotlight. Porches, yards, and all entrances to your home and garage should be well lit.
 

Your House Number:

Make sure law enforcement or fire agencies can locate your house in an emergency. Your house number should be clearly visible from the street day and night. Use numbers that are 6 inches high and made of reflective materials or black numerals against a white background. Avoid script numbers - they can be confusing. If your house is some distance from the road, post the number at the driveway entrance. If you live on a corner, make sure the number faces the street named in your address.
 

Windows:

An easy, inexpensive way to secure double-hung windows is to use a nail. Drill an angled hole through the top frame of the lower window partially into the frame of the upper window. Then insert a nail or an eyebolt. The window cannot be opened until you remove the nail. Make a second set of holes with windows partially open so you can have ventilation without inviting intruders. For sliding windows, try the preventative tips suggested for sliding doors.
 

Doors:

Hinged Doors
Entry doors should be solid core wood (at least 1 3/4 inches thick) or metal. Most hollow core doors can be easily broken through. They offer little protection, no matter what locks you use. Your door should fit its frame tightly - with no more than 1/8-inch clearance between the door and frame. If the gap is too large, replace the door. If that is too expensive, bolt a sturdy metal strip to the door edge. You boost your protection and save energy. Any hardware dealer can show you the kind of strip to use. Doors with decorative glass panels or windows are an easy mark. It takes only seconds to break the glass and unlock the door. If you do not want to replace the door, install a break-resistant plastic panel or decorative grill over the glass. Attach the grills with non-removable screws. Most door hinges are on the inside, safe from a burglar's tools. If hinges are on the outside, the hinge pins can be easily removed and the door taken out of the frame. To protect such doors, replace hinges with new ones with non-removable pins.
Sliding glass doors
Burglars look for sliding glass doors because they are easy to open. Several types of locks are made especially for these glass doors. The existing lock can be bolstered by placing a solid strip of wood in the track of the closed door. That helps block the door even if the lock is broken. Determined thieves may lift the door off its tracks. Use these preventative tips:

• Adjust rollers so the door cannot be pushed up enough to lift it off the
  track.
• Insert screws along the upper track of the door. Leave enough room
  for the door to slide, but not enough space to lift the door out.
• Drill a hole and insert a nail through the inside frame and part way
  through the metal door frame. You can remove the nail, but a burglar
  cannot.
 

Locks:

Deadbolt Locks
A deadbolt lock can provide good protection. When you turn the key, the lock mechanism slides a strong metal bolt from the door into the frame. When you buy a deadbolt lock, make sure:

• The bolt extends at least 1 inch from the edge of the door
   (has a 1-inch thro).
• The connecting screws that hold the lock together are on the inside
   of the door.
• The strike plate is attached to the door frame with screws that
   measure at least 3 inches.
• The cylinder has a steel guard - a ring around the key section.
  The cylinder guard should be tapered or rotated around the key
  to prevent wrenching if twisted.

Double-Cylinder Deadbolt Locks
The Plymouth Township Police and Fire departments do not recommend Double-Cylinder Deadbolt locks for safety reasons. In case of an emergency, we want the resident to get out of the house quickly.
Padlocks
Padlocks are typically used for garages, sheds, and workshops. Look for a sturdy padlock that does not release the key until the padlock is locked. Be sure the padlock is case-hardened with a 3/8-inch shackle so it can resist bolt cutters. A double-locking design can prevent the shackle being pried away from its case. Remember that a padlock is only as good as the hasp on which it is mounted. The hasp should be secured with bolts that are concealed when the padlock is locked. All the hardware in the world will not protect you if you open your door without checking who is on the other side. Buy an inexpensive viewer. Tell your children and their babysitters not to open the door to strangers

Remember, always use your locks. Even a five-minute trip to the store is
long enough for a burglar to enter you home.

Keys:

Victims report that as many as half of all burglaries take place without forced entry. In many cases, the burglar used a key. Be sure your keys do not fall into the wrong hands.

• Never carry identification tags on your key ring or holder.
• When you move into a new home have the locks re-keyed or changed.
   A locksmith can do this or, if you are handy with tools, you can change
   the lock yourself.
• Know who has every key to your home. Do not give keys to
  maintenance or delivery people.
• Do not hide your key outside. Burglars know all the hiding places.
 

Security Alarms:

If you desire additional security, you might consider a burglar alarm system. Be sure you deal with a reputable firm that provides approved systems.

How to Have a Safe Vacation

On The Road:

• Never carry large amounts of cash; use traveler’s checks. If you must carry
  large sums of money, do not display it openly.
• Keep a record of traveler’s checks and credit card numbers in a safe place.
  Have the telephone numbers to call in case your checks or credit cards are
  lost or stolen.
• Be aware of your surroundings and never advertise your plans, including travel
  routes and the amount of cash you are carrying.
• Do not stop to offer help to a stranded motorist. Go to the nearest telephone
  booth, and call for assistance.
• If you suspect someone is following you, drive to the nearest service station,
  restaurant, or business and call the police or sheriff’s department. If you believe
  it is unsafe to get out of your car, honk your horn and flash your lights to draw
  attention.
• If your car breaks down, raise the hood and attach a white cloth to the car
  antenna as an emergency signal. Stay in your locked car; ask anyone who
  stops to call the police or a garage. If you must abandon your car, keep all
  passengers together.
 

Hotel and Motel Security:

When staying overnight at a hotel or motel, remember the following:

• Determine the most direct route to and from your room to the fire escapes,
  elevators, and nearest telephone.
• Use all auxiliary locking devices on door and windows. You may want to
  purchase a port-able door lock for traveling.
• Use the door viewer to identify anyone re-questing entry. Open the door only if
  you are certain the person has a legitimate reason to enter your room. If in
  doubt, call the office.
• Unpack and place belongings in the closet and dresser. Arrange your things so
  you will know if anything is missing.
• Consider locking any electrical appliances in your luggage. Suitcases should
  always be locked so they cannot be used to carry your property out of your
  room.
• Never leave money, checks, credit cards, or car keys in the room. Take them
  with you.
• Use the hotel/motel safe to store extra cash, expensive jewelry, or other
  valuables.
• Report any lost or stolen items to the management and to the police.
• Report to the management any suspicious movements in the corridors or rooms.
 

Car Security:

• Always lock your car.
• Always lock valuables out of sight, preferably in the trunk. Always carry wallets,
  checkbooks, and purses with you.
• Do not advertise that you are a tourist. Place maps and travel brochures in the
  glove compartment.
• Park in well-lit, busy areas.
• Check the back seat before getting into your car.
• Mark your car radio and other removable car equipment with your driver’s license
  number (by “CA” for identification.)
 

Sightseeing:

Remember: Planning reduces your chance of becoming the victim of a crime.

• Ask for directions at the hotel/motel to those attractions you want to visit.
• Select tour guides carefully.
• Ask if any areas in town should be avoided. Stick to well-lit main streets and
  public areas.
• Looking lost may make you look like an easy target for crime. If you do get lost,
  find an open business and ask for directions.
• Only carry with you the cash you will need, and carry only small denominations.
• If older children go off separately, be sure they understand the importance of
  keeping track of time and returning promptly at appointed hours.
 

When You Return Home:

If you suspect your home has been burglarized:

• Do not go in. Go to a neighbor’s, and call police immediately. Wait outside for
  them to arrive. Do not try to confront a burglar.
• After a burglary, do not touch anything. Call the police immediately - a delay can
  reduce the chances of catching the criminal.
 

At Home:

An empty house is a tempting target for a burglar. Use this checklist of tips to safeguard your home while you are gone.

• Have good locks on all doors and windows, and use them.
• Engrave your valuables with your driver’s license number (preceded by “MI”) or
  other identification number and post “Operation Identification” stickers in entry
  doors and windows.
• Never leave your house key hidden outside under a doormat, in a flower pot, or
  on the ledge of a door.
• Tell your police department you plan to be away. Patrol officers may be able to
  check your home periodically. Call 354-3232 and request a
  Vacation Check form.
• Stop all deliveries, or arrange for someone to pick up your mail, newspapers, and
  packages.
• Arrange for someone to mow your lawn or rake leaves to give your home a
  lived-in look.
• Use timers to turn lights and a radio on and off at appropriate times.
• Hide garbage cans in the basement of a storage shed. Empty cans when
  everyone else’s is full can tell a burglar you are away.
• Turn the bell on your telephone down low so a burglar will not be alerted to your
  absence by its ringing.
• Close and lock garage doors and windows. Ask a neighbor to park occasionally
  in your driveway. If you leave your car at home, park it in the driveway rather than
  the garage. Have your neighbor move it occasionally so it looks like you are
  using it.
• Leave your blinds, shades, and curtains in a normal position. Do not close them
  unless that is what you do when you are at home.
• Ask a neighbor to watch the house while you are away. Leave your vacation
  address and telephone number with a neighbor so you can be reached in case
  of emergency.

Michigan Seat Belt Law

False Alarm Information

You Can Help!

Fact: 93% of all false alarms are caused by human error.

Help stop False Alarms

“False Alarms are defined in the Township as any alarm condition which is registered at the Police Department, Fire Department or elsewhere, not resulting from the activity for which the alarm was intended”.

The Most Common Causes of False Alarms:

• System Users
• Physical changes to Facility
• Displays and Decorations
• Malfunctioning equipment
• Heat Vents
• Air Conditioning Vents
• Fan (ceiling and table)
• Small Animals

REMEMBER: Storms and Bad Weather should not activate your alarm.
 

Helpful tips to ELIMINATE FALSE ALARMS

• Make sure all users have proper knowledge of codes and operations of the alarm.
  Know how to disarm the alarm.
• If the system was installed for a certain type of facility and remodeling occurs,
  the alarm should be inspected for suitability to the changes that have been made.
• Carefully arrange all decorations, banners and displays. Floating balloons can
  interfere with the motion detectors and activate alarms.
• Replace main battery to meet manufactures specifications.
• Faulty Equipment - If you cannot identify the cause of the activation – contact your
  alarm company to have motion detectors checked along with basic equipment.
• Heat rises and can cause enough motion to activate alarms, as can air conditioning
  currents.
• Motion detectors easily detect small animals, (birds, cats, rodents, etc.) Use
  caution against their entering the premises.
• Schedule routine system maintenance and checks by the Alarm Company.
• Alarmed areas must be protected from access. Security systems must not be
  the only barrier - all alarmed doors should have secure locks.
 

False Alarm Procedure:

1. Turn off alarm
2. Call the alarm company and provide pass code
3. Contact Plymouth Township Police Dispatch and report the false alarm
    at 354-3232

The Residential Burglar Alarm System
A residential burglar alarm system should be simple to operate and designed to fit in with the lifestyle of the family it is protecting. Otherwise, the alarm system will cause false alarms and the family will soon stop using it.

Commercial Burglar Alarm System
Burglary protection for commercial risks should consist of a combination of physical security and burglar alarm protection is to detect the intrusion in the event the physical security fails.

PREVENT FALSE ALARMS

1. Before leaving, check that all exterior doors are closed and locked.
2. Before leaving, check that all motion sensor areas are clear of moving
    signs, displays, reflective/helium balloons, etc.
3. Know how to cancel a false alarm quickly.
4. All personnel should be periodically trained in proper alarm operating
    procedures and false alarm prevention.
5. Report any arming or disarming problems to your alarm company
    immediately.

Crime Prevention Tips for the Disabled

Disabled persons face many physical challenges which can make them vulnerable to would-be assailants who assume the disabled are incapable of protecting themselves.

If you are disabled person or know someone who is, the following information may be helpful. Take your time to read and remember these tips. You may be able to prevent yourself or a friend from becoming a victim of a crime.

General Crime Prevention Tips

• Know and avoid situations and locations that could invite crime, such as dark alleys,
  unlit parking lots, etc.
• Decide what you plan to do in the event you are confronted - i.e., show confidence;
  scream, etc.
• Consider your options in these situations and practice your responses often so that
  you can recall them in a real situation.
 

Home Security Tips

• Consider having a peephole installed in your doors. Make sure you have the proper
  locks on doors and windows and use them while you are at home as well as when
  you are out.
• Never open the door for a stranger. Always demand verification of the stranger's
  identity and the purpose of the visit.
• Never tell a stranger calling by phone that you are alone or that you are disabled.
• Plan an avenue of escape from each room in your residence in case of emergency,
  such as a break-in or a disaster.
 

Consumer Protection Tips

• Always ask for identification from all door-to-door solicitors, and call their agency for
  verification.
• Don't commit yourself to purchases or charitable donations over the phone. Ask the
  caller to mail the information to you so you can make an informed decision. If you
  are not familiar with the company or organization, consult the State Department of
  Consumer affairs or the Better Business Bureau.
• Be sure to read and understand all contracts before you sign them. If your sight is
  impaired, have someone you trust read the entire document.
• Beware of anyone who is offering products or services at a "once in a lifetime" offer.
• Consider having your checks mailed directly to your bank to avoid mail theft or
  robbery.
 

Travel Safety

• Whenever possible, travel with someone you know. There is safety in numbers.
• Leave word of your plans - including your ultimate destination and estimated time of
  return - with family or friends.
• When waiting for a bus, train, etc., wait in a centralized location near other
  passengers.
• When riding the bus, sit as near to the driver as possible, particularly during late
  hours.
• Keep your handbags and packages on your lap instead of the floor or the seat next
  to you.
• Consider using traveler’s checks instead of carrying cash.
• Be aware of those around you, particularly when exiting a bus or train.
• If you have a speech or hearing impairment, always carry a card of communication
  symbols
 

If You Become a Victim of a Crime....

• Get help immediately by calling:

o The Police Department
o A doctor
o The Fire Department
o The sheriff's department
o A friend
o A relative

• Try to remember as many details about the assailant as possible, such as clothing,
  hair color, identifiable marks, etc.
• Be certain not to destroy any possible evidence.

Preventing Domestic Violence

In an emergency, DIAL 911 ...

• A woman is battered in the United States every 15 seconds. Domestic violence
  can strike any household.
• One-third of the homicides in this country are domestic violence-related. Domestic
   violence can be fatal.
• National statistics indicate that as many as 50% of all women in America
  experience violence in their intimate relationships. Domestic violence is a fact.
• Besides beatings, battering can involve threats of violence, verbal abuse and/or
  sexual assault. Domestic violence is not something anyone enjoys, asks for,
  or deserves.
• Victims of domestic violence often feel isolated, powerless, fearful, guilty, and
  dependent financially and/or physically. Domestic violence can leave victims feeling
  trapped and unable to help themselves.
• Children who learn violence at home are at risk to continue the violence in their own
  relationships as adults, either as batterers or as victims. Domestic violence can
  have long-term effects on children.
• Spousal abuse in Michigan is a crime and the batterer can be sent to prison.
  Domestic violence is intolerable and must stop.

Domestic violence centers can help victims

• If you are battered, your local domestic violence program can provide you and your
  children with emergency shelter and services.
• In addition to finding a safe place, you may want to call your local law enforcement
  agency to report the batterer.
• Obtain medical help if you are injured.
• File a temporary restraining order against the batterer.
• Counselors with your local domestic violence program can help you understand
  your rights and help you determine the options most appropriate for you.

Domestic violence restraining orders/Personal Protection Order

A petition must be filed at the Coleman A. Young building (formerly known as the City-County Bldg.) or circuit court in the county where you live. If you are filing at the Coleman A, Young building, go to the second floor, room 928. To obtain court-ordered relief of the following situations:

• An order restraining the attacker from abusing the victim or other family members.
• An order directing the attacker to leave the household.
• An order preventing the attacker from entering the residence, school, business, or
  place of employment of the victim.
• An order awarding custody or visitations with a minor child or children.
• An order restraining the attacker from molesting or interfering with minor children in
  the custody of the victim.
• An order directing payment of child support for minor children.
• An order directing either or both parties to participate in counseling.

 
What is a personal protection order?

A personal protection order (PPO) is an order issued by the court. In situations where there is a domestic relationship it can protect you from harassment, assault, beating, molesting, wounding, or stalking by another person. The order can also prohibit him/her from entering your premises and from removing minor children unless the removal is part of a court parenting time order.
A domestic relationship includes a spouse or former spouse, a person with whom you have a child, or a person with whom you have or had a dating relationship.

For immediate assistance with or information about a domestic violence situation, contact, The Family Violence Hotline: 1-800-996-6228

For criminal prosecution

• The Plymouth Township Police Department will process all criminal reports
   through the 35th District Court for prosecution.
• The case number of the Plymouth Township Police Department report documenting
   the crime may be obtained from the police. Please retain this number as it may be
   helpful to you and personnel at the Victim-Witness Assistance Program Office as
   you process your application for assistance.
 

Hotline Numbers

• Family Violence Helpline: 1-800-996-6228
• First Step – Domestic Violence info/shelter: 734-459-5900
• Counseling – Lifespan Clinical Services 1-888-355-LIFE