By Chris Knight, Neighborhood Watch Block Captain

There is not much that is more traumatic than becoming the victim of a crime. Here are some tips that might reduce your possibility of being someone's next target.

1. Never leave your garage door open when not at home. Upon entering your garage, close your garage door prior to exiting your vehicle

2. Never leave your sliding glass doors unlocked or open at night.

3. Never leave your vehicle doors unlocked whether you are in, or out of your vehicle. Do not leave valuables or packages visible when not in your car.

4. If you have an alarm system, make sure it is turned on when at home. Lock your doors even when at home. Do not leave your blinds open enough for others to look in your windows.
5. Do not open your door when someone unknown to you knocks or rings your bell. Install and use a door viewer. Make sure you know who is at your door. Always ask for identification prior to admitting strangers into your home.

6. Never give personal information about yourself to phone callers. Always ask for identification prior to admitting strangers into your home.

7. Keep emergency phone numbers readily available in the event they are needed. Don't leave messages on your voice mail indicating you are not at home.

8. Finally, do not walk or exercise in or out of the community without proper identification, a cell phone or personal protection device. Carry a flashlight at night.

Do's to make your life and activities safer

1. Become an active member of your Neighborhood Watch.
2. Call your Neighborhood Watch Block Captain or the Hillsborough Sheriff Dispatch number(813) 247-8200 if you see or suspect any suspicious activity in your community.
3. If you see or suspect any suspicious activities that might be of an emergency nature, immediately dial 911.
4. Always be aware of your surroundings when exercising or just walking.
5. If you plan to be away from home for an extended period, leave an itinerary with phone numbers where to reach you in an emergency with someone you trust. Personally notify the person should your return plans change.
6. Become aware of happenings in your community. Utilize your Neighborhood Watch Website. There is a wealth of information to help you live safer including the phone numbers of your Block Captains.
5. Get to know and communicate with your neighbors.