The 9 PM Routine is a simple yet effective practice that encourages residents to establish a nighttime routine focused on safety and security.
Theft can happen anywhere at any time. While Mentor is a safe community, the police department encourages residents to do what they can to protect themselves against theft. Simply set a reminder at 9 PM to do the following:
Lock Your Doors: Ensure that all exterior doors, including your front door, back door, and garage door, are securely locked. This helps prevent unauthorized entry into your home.
Close Your Garage: If you have a garage, close it before bedtime. An open garage is an invitation for theft or unwanted access.
Secure Valuables in Your Car: Remove any valuable items from your car and lock it. Don’t leave purses, electronics, or other valuable belongings visible through the windows. In 2023, Mentor Police responded to 45 theft-from-vehicle calls – in most cases, vehicles were left unlocked.
Turn On Exterior Lights: Illuminate the outside of your home by turning on porch lights, pathway lights, or any other outdoor lighting. Well-lit areas deter potential intruders.
Activate Alarms and Security Systems: If you have a home security system, make sure it is armed. Activate alarms, motion sensors, and any other security features you have in place. If you haven’t invested in a video surveillance system, consider doing so. There are several inexpensive systems available on the market with motion activated cameras that save video directly to the cloud.
It’s no secret that thieves look for easy targets. By incorporating these simple steps into your nightly routine, you can make a big difference in protecting your home and belongings and reduce the risk of preventable crime.
This is just one of many programs that the Mentor Police Department supports to protect our residents and businesses.
Learn more at cityofmentor.com/police.