LONG-TERM STRATEGIES
The TPD encourages all property owners to follow the guidelines established through Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED).
Recognized worldwide for its proven strategies to deter crime and increase safety, CPTED is based on the simple idea that the physical environment affects crime and the perception of safety. The design or re-design of an environment has been proven to reduce crime opportunities.
If you can afford it, this is a good time to implement some of the following long-term strategies to help keep your property safe:
- LIGHT IT Replace all light fixtures with “dark skies” fixtures and install LED lighting. These fixtures eliminate glare and shadows that make it easy for trespassers to hide. LED lighting allows true colors to be seen at night -- and lowers your electricity bills.
- RECORD IT Surveillance is your 24/7 witness to help law enforcement catch criminals. Invest in quality surveillance with remote viewing. Place cameras inside and outside the facility.
- SCREEN IT Attractive screens maintain privacy and deter graffiti. Unwanted activity cannot go unnoticed.
- ROCK IT Landscape rocks, such as river rock, deter long-term loitering or resting.
- LOCK IT Keep your doors, gates, and all access points to your property locked when empty. Keep your dumpsters locked and inside enclosures. Unlocked dumpsters invite “recyclers” onto your property and invite unwanted activity.
- BLOCK IT Block roll-up doors with vehicles or heavy equipment to prevent break-ins at night.
- TRIM IT Eliminate hiding areas and open the line of sight to increase natural surveillance. Use the 2’/6’ rule for landscaping: Trim branches 6 feet from the ground, and cut all bushes to 2 feet in height.
