Security: High Alert

The Columbia Police have steped up surveillance in the Forest Hills neighborhood. They have asked us to emphasize the actions that help thwart criminal activity.  Please review the following and consider adopting them in your personal household.   
  1. Secure your property, bicycles, etc.
  2. Keep on your lights.
  3. Report street light outages to 799-9000
  4. Report Strangers to Police at 911 (see note below)
  5. Watch your neighbor's house.
Rob Clarke has been told that 252-2911--the number that we have historically recommended for contacting the CPD about suspicious behavior--may not be doing the job. Calls from this number come into an office that is not under the management of the CPD who may not be promptly notified of a call.  Consequently, the Police suggest that we call  911 whether an event is considered an emergency or not.
 
If you see someone suspicious in the neighborhood, dial 911 and simply say you want to report a suspicious person. We believe the CPD is serious about wanting us to call when we see one of these people walking through the neighborhood who have no obvious business being here. NOTE:  The fact that a person is casually dressed or not a known neighbor does not make him or her suspicious.  By contrast, a person walking slowly and peering into people's yards and driveways could be considered suspect.
 
Remember:  watch your own property and that of your neighbor.  The favor will surely be returned.