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Unfortunately, certain suburban areas are
experiencing an increase in so-called
"driveway robberies." As residents
come home and enter their garage, they are
confronted by robbers who take their money or
their car.
These robbers sometimes follow shoppers home
from a shopping mall. They watch for people
who drive luxury automobiles and seem to have
large amounts of cash, jewelry or expensive
shopping items. They also watch for people who
are unaware of the robbers' presence.
To help guard against driveway robberies,
follow these safety tips:
- Pay attention - always be aware of your
surroundings.
- Don't wear expensive jewelry or show
large amounts of cash while shopping.
- Park in a well-lighted spot at the
shopping mall. Don't try to get into your
car if you see suspicious characters
loitering nearby - go back into the mall
and ask for a security escort.
- When driving home, check your rear-view
mirror occasionally to be sure no one is
following you.
- If you do suspect you are being
followed, either call the police from your
cell phone or drive to a police or fire
station. Do not drive home.
- Keep shrubbery near your garage door
trimmed back so no one can hide in it.
Always have the garage entry area lighted
so you can see whether strangers are
there.
- If you have an automatic garage door
opener, don't get out of your car until
the door has closed and you can see there
is no one in the garage.
- If you are confronted by a robber, try
to remain calm and give them what they
want. Do not risk your life to save your
money.
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