Security

Tuckerman Station, like all neighborhoods, is in the "real world", and therefore, does not exist in a crime-free environment. There are things that the community collectively and individual homeowners can do to protect their homes. More information can be obtained from the Maryland Crime Prevention website. On an individual basis, the Board suggests:

• Keep front and rear lights of your home on all night long. The brighter our community, the less attractive we'll be to criminals. Every resident plays a key role in lighting up our community. Installing an inexpensive timer makes it simple and easy to keep the lights burning. And did you know that on average it costs just pennies a day to keep a front and rear light on at night? The benefit provided far outweighs the minimal increase in your electric bill.
• Remove all valuables from your car. Burglars are first attracted to a car by what they see inside. Also, remember that vehicle registration and identification should never be left in the car. Never hide a spare key on your vehicle.
• Lock all car doors and close windows. Any deterrent will lessen the chance that a car thief will target your car. If you don't already have and use a steering lock such as "The Club", consider doing so.
• Buddy up with a neighbor. Let one another know when you'll be away. Agree to bring in newspapers, flyers, notices, etc. for each other.
• Report outages of community lights to Abaris Realty at (301) 468-8919 ASAP. Don't assume that someone else will notice and call. They may not. Remember, the longer a light is out, the longer a potential opportunity for crime exists in that area of our community.
• Report any suspicious activity immediately. Don't hesitate. Call the police or dial 911.
• Does your home have an alarm system? If it does, use it. If not, consider installing one.
• Lock or pin all doors and windows in your home. Locking doors and windows as you leave helps protect your home and personal property. Locking them when you are at home helps protect something of greater value - you and your family.
• Get to know your neighbors. Talk to each other. Share community concerns and issues, especially those dealing with security.
• Always give your home a "lived in" look. Set timers in several locations to go on and off at various times. Vary the positions of blinds, curtains and shutters.
• Make a list of your valuables. Know the make, model and serial number. Engrave them to provide positive identification should they be stolen. Take pictures of items. This too will provide an enormous help in identifying items.