EL SEGUNDO CONNECT | REPORT NON-EMERGENCY ISSUES ONLINE

"El Segundo Connect" is an upgraded online citizen reporting tool designed to improve access to City services and streamline communication between the community and local government. In a major step forward, El Segundo Connect is available online and as a mobile app, marking the City's first-ever app.

El Segundo Connect replaces “Report an Issue” on the City’s website. With this new user-friendly platform, users can quickly and easily report non-emergency issues like encampments, graffiti, and much more, from their computer or smartphone at any time. The streamlined process prompts users to select the type of issue, add details, attach photos or documents, and provide a location. With just a few clicks, users can submit service requests directly to City staff for quick action.

El Segundo Connect is now available for download in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. For more information and to start using the platform today, visit elsegundo.org/connect or search "El Segundo Connect" in the app store.

CRIME TRENDS | THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE PARTS

Catalytic converter thieves generally target high profile vehicles like trucks or Sport Utility Vehicles because the higher ground clearance allows for easier access underneath the vehicle. However, sports cars, sedans, and minivans are not immune to converter theft.

You may not be able to tell your catalytic converter was stolen by looking at your car, but you will know as soon as you start it. When the catalytic converter has been removed, your vehicle makes a loud, roaring sound, much like that of a motorcycle.

So, what can you do to protect your vehicle and reduce your risk of becoming a victim?

• Park in areas where your vehicle will most likely be seen by passersby.
• Park under lights after dark or near windows at a business.  
• Park near security cameras and in a garage, if possible. 
• Park defensively. Park high profile vehicles so they are surrounded by low ground clearance vehicles. This may deter thieves by making it harder for them to access the most vulnerable targets. 
• If your catalytic converter is a "bolt on" model you can have the bolts welded shut and have extra metal welded to the exhaust system. 
• Etch your converter with your vehicle's license plate number in several different locations. This will help the police track your property if it is stolen. 
• Install a catalytic converter protection device that will clamp around the converter.

The most commonly targeted vehicles: Toyota Prius and Toyota Tacoma 

HOLIDAY TRAVEL | WITH THE HOLIDAYS FAST APPROACHING, BELOW ARE SOME REMINDERS ON HOW TO PROTECT YOUR HOME AND PROPERTY WHEN YOU ARE AWAY:

• Double check to make sure all doors and windows are locked, including windows on the second floor.
• Keep shades and blinds in their normal positions. 
• Arrange to have your mail or deliveries held or picked up by a trusted neighbor or delivered to an Amazon Locker. 
• Have outside lights on an automatic timer to turn on in the evening and off during the day.
• Put your lamps and radios on a timer to make your home appear occupied. 
• Ask a neighbor to park their car in your driveway from time to time.  
• Activate your burglar alarm.
• Swiftly take your luggage to the car or taxi. The longer you take to pack up a car, the more chance a burglar has of seeing that the house may be unoccupied.
• Be cautious of oversharing your travel plans with others. Keep your travel plans off social media and post photos from your trip when you return home. Be sure your teenager(s) follow the same rule. 
• Call the El Segundo Police Department Dispatch Center at 310-524-2760 to request "Extra Patrol" for your home while you are on vacation.