When you get down to the basic tenets of what Neighborhood Watch is – and what it stands for -  you realize it’s all just a matter of using your common sense.

With the recent outbreak of car prowls in RB – or burglaries and break-ins to cars – it makes sense to keep all desirable goodies and "toys" out of sight. Put your cell phones, lap tops, purses, intriguing packages, tools and the like in your trunk. Better yet, take them into the house.

It makes sense to help your neighbors and to have your neighbors help you. Where would you be if you couldn’t ask for help when in need? And to share with neighbors what you each know about safety and security.

It makes sense to watch out for anything suspicious that may be going on in your neighborhood: strange cars cruising, cars parked that do not belong, suspicious activity such as cars near and around houses that are temporarily vacant, suspicious persons rummaging though through trash containers, suspicious persons going door to door and the like.

It makes sense to keep lights on all night (a dusk-to-dawn sensor is easily installed.) Remember burglars like the dark – it protects their privacy! It’s just pennies a week for the added safety!

It makes sense to make sure your street numbers are easy to read. If they are large enough – and in contrasting colors- the emergency vehicles will have no problem getting to you easily. If you have a light over the numbers, make sure you keep it on at all times.

It makes sense to let your neighbors know when you are away. They can pick up flyers, advertising pamphlets, weekly newspapers so your house will not look vacant. If you want the RSVP to check the front and back of your house if you are away for 5-30 days, check your doors, pick up papers, etc., they will need the name, address and phone number of a neighbor with a key. This is a wonderful volunteer service, and you can get a 6-day random check if you apply at their office at the Storefront – 2^nd floor Library. Call 538-8146 for more information.