Crime Prevention Tips
The Bountiful Police Department works to protect our community from crime, but recognizes that vigilance on the part of citizens helps prevent crime and, in doing so, also helps the police department do a better job. When law enforcement is unaware of problems, they cannot assist with a resolution.

IMMEDIATELY REPORT ALL SUSPICIOUS AND CRIMINAL ACTIVITY TO THE POLICE.

Protect Your Home

• Install good deadbolt locks and be sure to utilize them.
• Use timers to turn lights on and off when away from home.
• Secure all windows with primary and secondary locking devices.
• Make sure garage doors and windows are locked.
• Leave exterior lights on at night or install motion sensors.
• Maintain a record of your property, including serial numbers, in a safe place (preferably somewhere other than your residence).
• Engrave or mark your property with a recognizable mark in a discreet place.
• Join a Neighborhood Watch program.

Protect Yourself

• Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert.
• Carry yourself in a calm, confident manner.
• Plan the route you are going to take.
• Carry your wallet in a pocket that is not easily accessible.
• Carry your purse securely and close to your body.
• Have your keys ready as you approach your car or home.
• Park in areas that are well-lit.
• Lock your car doors.
• Don’t jog alone in remote areas.
• If you think you may be particularly vulnerable, list only a last name and first initial on the mailbox and in the phone book.  Ask the phone company to omit your address in the phone book, or have a non-published number.
• Trust you instincts.

If you are attacked

• Stay Calm.
• Try not to panic or display signs of confusion.
• Don’t resist if the attacker just wants your property.
• Don’t allow the attacker to move you to another location.
• Try to get an accurate description of your attacker, such as age, height, weight or body type, race, complexion, and type and color of clothing.
• Try to avoid a violent encounter.
• Call the police as soon as possible and give your name and location.

If you are the victim of a crime, you will be asked

• Your Name, Address, Phone Number, and Date of Birth.
• What happened? Describe the event as accurately as possible.
• When did it happen?  Is the crime in progress or did it occur prior?
• Where did it happen?  Did it occur at a different location or in another city?
• Do you know who did it?  Can you identify a suspect or vehicle?
• Do you know where they went?  Which way did they leave and how did they leave?

Wait for the officer to arrive or call you back. The officer’s response time will depend on many factors.  When your contact with the officer concludes, he or she may give you a case number.  Keep track of the case number, it may be necessary to provide it to your insurance company or other agencies that will be assisting you in other aspects of the case. All police activity related to that event will be linked to that number. If there is enough information, the case will be passed on to a detective for follow-up.