There are lots of easy steps people can take every day to help prevent crime. Think about taking these simple steps to protect your home and car.

Tips for protecting your home

  • Install lighting for entrances, driveways, etc. Motion detector lights are good deterrents.
  • Street address numbers should be large, clear of obstruction, and in a lit area so emergency responders can quickly find your home.
  • Maintain good locks on all exterior doors (including basement/garage doors). Chain locks are for privacy, not security.
  • Good locks aren’t much help on weak doors. Try to install solid core or metal doors, especially on entrances or doorways hidden from the road or the view of neighbors.
  • Don’t hide keys in mailboxes, planters, or under doormats. Instead, leave an extra set of keys with a neighbor or a friend.
  • Install a peephole or other way to see who is at the door (and use it before answering). Don’t open the door until you know who is there.
  • Keep doors/windows locked. Windows should have secure locks or pins.
  • Keep landscaping trimmed to maintain visibility and reduce access to windows, doors, or upper levels.
  • Don’t leave ladders or devices that allow upper-level access unsecured and around your home.
  • Alarm systems are an effective deterrent. Be sure to post signs and stickers that come with alarms. If you do install one, be sure to apply for a security alarm permit.
  • Don’t leave notes on the door when going out.
  • Be careful about publicly posting information on social media about the location, appearance, and features of your home. Also, be careful about public posts providing information on when you are or will be out of town or out of the house.
  • Don’t let strangers use your phone; call for them.
  • Be a good neighbor. Reach out and form connections and look out for others – especially the elderly.
    • Keep names/phone numbers of neighbors
    • Learn your neighbor’s schedule and vehicles
    • Watch for strange persons, vehicles, or door-to-door salespeople
  • Consider participating in or forming a neighborhood watch.

In case the worst does happen, be prepared

Think about creating a home inventory

National Crime Prevention Council home & neighborhood safety resources

Tips for protecting your car

  • Ensure all doors and windows are closed and locked when leaving your vehicle.
  • Never leave your keys in the vehicle.
  • Never leave your vehicle running.
  • Park in well-lit areas. Avoid parking in areas where lighting is minimal or does not exist.
  • Avoid leaving valuable items, or items that appear to be valuable, in your vehicle. If you need to leave them, secure them out of sight. The trunk is the best place to leave these items.
  • Avoid leaving cell phones or other electronic device chargers out in the open. This is a sign that these types of electronics may be in the vehicle.
  • Report any suspicious person(s) looking in vehicles or pulling on door handles immediately by calling 9-1-1.

Tips for Preventing Bicycle Theft

  • Always lock your bike with a quality bike lock.
  • Make sure your bike is locked to a sturdy, immovable object.
  • Lock your bike in a well-lit area, if possible.
  • Report suspicious activity to the nearest police department.
  • Record and retain the model and serial number along with the receipt and purchase date of your bike.
  • Engrave your driver’s license or state ID number on the bike frame starting with the two-letter initials of the issuing state. This is recognized nationally.
  • Place a card with your information inside the handlebar tube to prove ownership.
  • Take close-up photos of your bike for your files.

Bicycle Theft Prevention Brochure

For more resources contact

Asheville Police Department
Community Engagement
828-271-6145

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