HOLIDAY TRAVEL | MEMORIAL DAY

As Memorial Day kicks off the summer travel season, take these proactive steps to protect your home and property while you're away:  

Request Extra Patrol | Contact the El Segundo Police Department Dispatch Center at 310-524-2760 to request an "Extra Patrol" for your home while you're on vacation.

Secure All Entry Points | Double-check that all doors and windows are locked, including those on upper floors.

Keep Window Coverings Natural | Leave shades and blinds in their usual positions to avoid drawing attention to an empty house. 

Handle Mail and Deliveries | Either pause mail and package deliveries or ask a trusted neighbor or Neighborhood Watch Bock Captain to collect them so they don't pile up. 

Use Light Timers | Set outside lights on automatic timers to turn on at dusk and off at dawn.

Make It Look Like Someone's Home | Ask a neighbor to occasionally park in your driveway to create the impression that someone is home.   

Activate Security Systems | Turn on your alarm system and make sure any security cameras or smart locks are working properly.

Load Quickly and Discreetly | Load luggage swiftly into your car or taxi to avoid signaling to potential burglars that you're leaving town.

Be Mindful with Social Media | Avoid posting your travel plans or real-time vacation updates online. Encourage your teenager to do the same. Save the photos and stories for after you return. 

THEFT FROM VEHICLE 
During the month of April, there was a slight increase in vehicle burglaries compared to February and March. Thieves are targeting vehicles where valuables, especially tools are left inside.

Reminders to reduce the risk of theft:

• Do not leave valuables in your car.
• If possible, park your car in a secured garage.

BANK JUGGING | ROBBERY
"Bank jugging" is a type of robbery where criminals target individuals who have just withdrawn cash from a bank or ATM. Thieves often park outside banks, watching for customers who appear to be carrying large amounts of money.

Once a target is identified, the suspect follows the individual to their next stop, which may be a grocery store, restaurant, or even their home. When the victim exits their vehicle, the thief either breaks in to steal the cash or confronts them directly. 

Tips to Help Protect Yourself: 

• Always be aware of your surroundings when visiting a bank or ATM.
• Look out for individuals loitering in their vehicles near bank entrances or ATMs.
• Conceal your bank deposit bags or envelopes.  
• Immediately lock your car doors after getting into your vehicle.
• Do not store large amounts of cash in your vehicle.
• Avoid regular patterns in your banking habits. Change the times and locations you visit the bank. 

If you suspect someone is following you, do not go home. Call 9-1-1 and drive to the nearest police station.