March 27, 2012 > Be aware of your surroundings. Don't be a victim! Be aware of your surroundings. Don't be a victim! Submitted By Tim Jones, Newark PD A Thieves' Paradise... Where can you find a place where people leave their wallets, purses, cell phones, navigation systems, or cars unattended and ripe for theft? The answer won't surprise you; it happens every time they pull off the road to get gas or grab their favorite drink from a convenience store and leave their keys in the ignition or their doors unlocked. Most of the time, gas station and convenience store customers leave their car doors unlocked. This enables a thief to approaches the victim's car, open an unlocked door, and grab any valuables within reach. Then, the thief quickly flees! It's a crime of opportunity that takes only a few seconds to commit. These types of thefts can be easily prevented by keeping the following tips in mind: * Pick gas stations and stores that are well-lighted and have video surveillance cameras. * Always remove your keys, close the windows, and lock the doors. * Keep valuables out of plain view in your vehicle and lock the doors even if you are going inside for just a moment. * Pay attention to your surroundings. * Don't let your cell phone distract you. Learn how you can keep these crimes of opportunity from happening to you by forming a Neighborhood Watch! Please contact: Tim Jones Special Assistant Community Engagement Division Newark Police Dept. (510) 578-4209 tim.jones@newark.org