PCPD: How to avoid petty summer crimes

Photo: Michele Roepke

PARK CITY, Utah. — With summer weather having finally settled into town and conditions better for travel, the Park City Police Department (PCPD) has suggested several ways people can avoid petty thefts.

“Help yourself from becoming the victim of what we call petty crime,” PCPD Officer Clayton Eves said. “I know its Park City and everyone has this safe town feel so they think they can relax. But by taking a few precautions, it will maintain that safe level up here. If we start subjecting ourselves to be an easy target, the criminals are going to know that, and they’re going to start hitting them more often.”

How to avoid petty theft:

• Make sure garage doors are shut, regardless if anyone is home or not.
• Always lock home and car doors.
• Roll up car windows.
• Do not leave any valuables inside vehicles (purses, phones, wallets, spare change, etc.).
• Especially make sure to lock car doors and remove valuables when visiting trailheads.

How to avoid mail theft:

• Use the letter slots inside your post office, or hand it to a letter carrier.
• Do not leave it in your mailbox overnight.
• Do not send or receive cash in the mail.
• If you will be gone a short time, ask a trusted friend or neighbor to pick up your mail.
• Have your mail held at the post office if gone for an extended time.

How to avoid bike theft:

• Get a good lock. U-locks are best, but a heavy cable lock can be used as well.
• Make it unavailable. Avoid extended parking in high-risk areas.
• Store your bike indoors at night. If it’s in the garage, make sure to close the door.
• Make it hard to sell by engraving your name and registering it online.