A new column from former HIGHLIGHTS editor Lucy Fried
| It was a wonderful honor to be invited to write a recurring column for HIGHIGHTS, and I can’t think of any topic more import-ant to launch with than safety. I want to think that our Village is immune to crime, but of course it cannot be and never has been. In fact, back in the very early 2000’s, Don and I were burglarized, and I still remember the feeling of violation when I found my drawers and closets ransacked and precious items stolen. |  |
New screen doors with security features came out this year, and we plunked down the $1200, hoping it would be worth the money. But the summer’s rash of break-ins and other crimes showed we must fight back as a community, so when the Safety Committee announced a meeting in July to share experiences and offer safety tips, I knew I had to attend.
Here’s a report on what I learned:
Here’s a report on what I learned:
| From neighbors Gabriela Worrell, Rosalind Goddard, Joan Anglin, and Mickey Fielding, who described the devices they’ve installed in their homes – including Google cameras in the front and back (simpler than Ring, as messages come via one’s phone); ADT’s hard-wired battery-driven security system, with sensor alerts at two door entrances and windows; a wireless ADT system with cameras and alarms on both floors; and a Ring device similar to Google’s for a patio. |  |
From Public Security Officer Al Johnson, who said, “Even with fences and gates, people who want to get in will get in. The best tool we have is residents’ eyes and ears; ADT and Google cameras are useful.”
From LAPD Officer Kenny Sanchez, who said, “Barking dogs are deterrents. Cameras are a huge help, even better than alarms because by the time we get the call, the burglars are gone.”
And Court 17 Rep Regina Bryant, a member of LAFD’s Community Emergency Response Team, offered these tips: Be common-sense smart... think safe and act safe… keep TV and lights on or use timers when you’re away… close the blinds at night… get dusk-to-dawn porch lights from the office… close windows before you leave home… be sure your garage is locked… lock the door when you leave your unit, even just to go to the trash area… keep eyes on the street… be proactive in get-ting to know your neighbors… give a trusted neighbor a key in case an alarm goes off when you’re not home… update your email address with the VG office to receive alerts… don’t leave a purse or wallet unattended in your car at a gas station… and put a whistle on your key chain.”
From LAPD Officer Kenny Sanchez, who said, “Barking dogs are deterrents. Cameras are a huge help, even better than alarms because by the time we get the call, the burglars are gone.”
And Court 17 Rep Regina Bryant, a member of LAFD’s Community Emergency Response Team, offered these tips: Be common-sense smart... think safe and act safe… keep TV and lights on or use timers when you’re away… close the blinds at night… get dusk-to-dawn porch lights from the office… close windows before you leave home… be sure your garage is locked… lock the door when you leave your unit, even just to go to the trash area… keep eyes on the street… be proactive in get-ting to know your neighbors… give a trusted neighbor a key in case an alarm goes off when you’re not home… update your email address with the VG office to receive alerts… don’t leave a purse or wallet unattended in your car at a gas station… and put a whistle on your key chain.”
Please email column suggestions to me at [email protected]. The Safety Committee also welcomes your interest; find their meeting time at www.villagegreenla.net.
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