Crime Prevention

The Woodstock Police Department would like to remind all residents to remain vigilant when it comes to everyday tasks. Below are a few reminders to assist in preventing you from becoming a victim.

  • Always be aware of your surroundings.
  • Keep your doors and windows locked at all times.
  • Do not open your door to strangers or uninvited guests. Acknowledge callers thru a locked door. Regardless of the circumstances or persuasiveness of the individual advise the person(s) you are calling the police and to wait by the street. Call the police.
  • Shred everything. This should include all bills, bank or credit card statements, anything that has your name, address, date of birth, social security number, or any other identifiable information on it.
  • Never give out your personal information. This could be over the phone, computer, or in person by ways of unsolicited mail, emails, phone calls, or persons. Verify who you are dealing with.
  • Do not leave any valuables in your car (even for a few minutes). This should include wallets, purses, bags, GPS systems, cell phones, jewelry, or garage door openers.
  • Do not leave property unattended or unsecured in your yard, along the side of your house or in an open garage. Ex. Tools, generators, bicycles, lawn mowing equipment, etc.

For additional information on personal, business, or identity safety please feel free to call the Woodstock Police Department

Emergency: 911 | Non-Emergency: (802) 457-1420

Residential Security Checklist

We would like for you to take a few moments and review the residential security checklist. As you move about your home, you will find that each section points out specific areas where security should be a factor.

When you have completed your checklist, look at the yes and no columns. If you find that you have more no’s then yes’, then we would encourage you to find a solution that will work for you and your family to better protect your home.

If you have any questions about the checklist or cannot find a solution to an area that needs attention, please feel free to contact the Woodstock Police Department.

Download and Print the Residential Security Checklist

Holiday Crime Tips

Unfortunately burglars view the holiday season as an opportunity to burglarize your home for cash, credit cards and gifts. Here are some tips to be mindful of during the holiday season.

  • Be cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave your house or apartment, even for a few minutes.
  • Don't openly display your Christmas tree and gifts in the front window so it's easily visible from the street. It's too tempting for a potential criminal to smash the window and grab the wrapped packages, or to plan a later break-in based on their observations.
  • Don't advertise - burglars look for occupancy cues like outdoor lights burning 24 hours/day, piled up newspapers, mail or advertising flyers having on the door knob.
  • Use an inexpensive light timer when you are away and ask a neighbor to pick up your newspapers and mail.
  • If you go out for the evening, turn on lights and a radio or television so the house or apartment appears to be occupied.
  • Burglars know to look for the hidden door key near the front entrance. Don't hide spare keys under rocks, in flowerpots or above door ledges. Instead, give a spare key to a trusted neighbor.
  • Burglars prefer to enter through unlocked doors or windows. A holiday problem can occur when exterior Christmas light extension cords are run inside through a window and prevent it from being secured.
  • Don't post your family name on your mailbox or on your house. A burglar can call directory assistance to get your telephone number and call your home while in front of your house to confirm that you are away.
  • Don't leave descriptive phone answering machine messages like "You've reached the Wilson's, we're away skiing from the holidays, please leave a message". Burglars will hear that and know they have plenty of time to break in and vandalize your home.
  • After Chrismas Day, don't pile up empty gift boxes from all your new purchases on the street for the garbage. Burglars appreciate knowing what is inside your home for them to steal. Break up the boxes and cut them down to better conceal the items.

  • Christmas is a time of year during which many of us will be busy shopping and running errands in order to be ready for the Holiday celebration. We must not forget that criminals will also be out and about looking for easy targets.
  • During the holiday rush, stay alert to your surroundings.
  • If possible, shop before dark. Coordinate shopping trips with a friend. Never park in an unlit lot or area, no matter how convenient it may be.
  • Lock your packages and gifts in your vehicle's trunk. Keep you vehicle's doors locked and windows closed. This is especially relevant for SUVs.
  • Have your keys readily available in your had before you go to your car.
  • When you return to your vehicle, scan the interior of your car to be sure no one is hiding inside. Check to see if you are being followed.
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Pay for purchases with a check, credit card, or debit card when possible.
  • To discourage purse-snatchers, don't overburden yourself with packages, have you purchases delivered whenever practical.
  • Be extra careful with purses and wallets. Carry a purse under your arm and keep your wallet in an inside jacket pocket, not in a back trouser pocket.
  • Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, "con-artists" may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.

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