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September 29, 2010 (Alpine) – “Alpine is experiencing Auto Burglary and Window Smashes,” Paula Dickenson, USN Ret., crime prevention specialist with the San Diego County Sheriff’s Alpine substation said in release sent to media and area residents. “It's an opportunity for the thief…When it occurs, contact Sheriff's Dispatch, 1-858-565-5200, for our Alpine Deputy to take a report,” she said, also offering tips to protect your vehicle.
The hits have occurred along Alpine Boulevard, in and around the Hunter Pass area, and on “View” streets, she added.
The economic downturn and the approaching holiday season enhance the importance of crime prevention. Dickenson offered these tips for residents:
• Vehicle owners make thievery simple by obligingly leaving doors unlocked (four out of five cases of vehicle theft), leave keys in the ignition (one out of five cases) or items such as cell phones, briefcases on the front seats. If nothing is visible, the thief will move on to the next car.
• No matter where you are, always lock your doors and roll your vehicle windows all the way up when you leave your vehicle unattended, even in your driveway. If you have an alarm, turn it on. Leave nothing of value in your vehicle. At night, park only in well lighted areas. Utilize vehicle theft deterrents such as a steering wheel motion restrictor, an ignition kill switch or anything else, which will make it more difficult to steal your vehicle.
• Never attach a tag with your name and address to a key ring. When having your car serviced or parked, leave only your ignition key. Mark your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in several places such as tailgates, spoilers, and under the hood, using an engraver or dye marker. Keep copies of your registration in your wallet for ease of identification in case of emergency or theft
Vehicle theft and the theft of items from vehicles are on the rise here in our area of responsibility these past few weeks, Dickenson confirmed. “By applying a few simple precautions and remaining aware, you can remove the opportunities criminals will use to take advantage of you while you are home or enjoying life in Alpine.”
If you are victimized, report the crime promptly. For crimes which have already occurred and to report suspicious activity, call the Sheriff's Non-Emergency telephone number (858) 565-5200. For life threatening situations and serious crimes in progress, call 9-1-1. Remember, the Alpine Sheriff's Station is open for business, Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm. When needing a Deputy, you must call our Sheriff's Dispatch 1-858-565-5200 or 9-1-1.
For additional tips or to find out how you can participate in the Neighborhood Watch Program, contact Paula Dickenson, Crime Prevention Specialist, 619 659-2608.
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