By: Officer Kurt Brower
Each summer during Hurricane Season, Floridians watch the tropics, stock up on supplies, review emergency plans and hope they don’t have to shutter up for the big one. While attention is diverted to the Caribbean, criminals are targeting our homes for the very items that protect and comfort us during and after the storm; shutters and generators.
A quick check of a metal recycling business revealed that selling aluminum shutters may yield around $.40 a pound or $2.40 for a 57 inch panel. That’s a far cry from the almost $27 a national home improvement store charges, but it’s not bad for a quick haul. Generators, on the other hand, can be found on Craigslist for $150 and up. In the few minutes it takes a criminal to load twenty panels and a generator from the side of a house, he can net almost $200 or more. It is easy to see the attraction for criminals. So how can you avoid becoming a victim of this type of crime?
First, make sure shutters and generators are properly secured. Shutters should be moved into the garage or a locked storage area when not in use. Generators should never be stored outside, and when in use, chain or cable lock them to an immovable object. You can create an immovable object by filling a five gallon bucket with cement, placing an eye-hook in it, and burying it in the ground. Additionally, make sure the chain or cable used is heavy gauge and equipped with a high security padlock. If the generator is stored in an outside shed, place a heavy-duty eye bolt into the foundation and secure as previously mentioned.
Next, make sure to close and lock garage doors. Not only are shutters and generators kept in the garage, but a number of other valuables including cars, lawn equipment, bicycles and tools are stored there as well. Finally, make sure to keep a copy of your generator’s make, model, and serial number so that if you become a victim, you will be able to provide the investigator with this information. Keeping a photograph of your generator and engraving it with a personal identification number is also highly recommended, remembering to never use your Social Security number. These measures will make your generator less attractive to criminals and help identify it should it be stolen.
For more information contact the Crime Prevention Unit of the Boca Raton Police Services Department at 561-347-3938.
*Content expressed in Home Security Source does not represent the thoughts and opinions of ADT Security Services, Inc. unless explicitly indicated.