Holiday Alert in Forest Hills
Forest Hills residents should be on alert for any suspicious persons, activity or sounds especially as we enter the holiday season and throughout the next six to seven weeks.
There have been several reported incidents of property crime in the neighborhood in the last few weeks, and historically there's an upswing in criminal activity during the holidays.
What can we do? Lock your car and bring all items with street value into the house. And, "Be a nosy neighbor," is the advice from Columbia's South Region Police leadership. Be on the lookout for our neighbors especially while many are traveling. Immediately report to police any suspicious or unusual activity of any kind you see or hear by calling 911 or 252-2911. When asking for someone to investigate tell them you want to speak with the officer.
- If you hear an alarm go off for more than 60 seconds - call 911 and report it.
- If you see someone suspicious or observe someone watching a vacationing house, call 911 and report it.
- If someone you don't know knocks at your darkened door and asks for someone you don't know, call 911 and report it.
- If your neighbors forgot to take in their newspapers or mail, pick it up for them.
Property crime is on the rise all over the city. Police are increasing patrols, including Forest Hills, and have asked City Council for permission to use overtime to put more "boots on the street" during the holiday season.
It is a good idea to let neighbors know on both sides and across the street when you will be away from home overnight. Let's resolve to all be "nosy neighbors" and have a real "crime watch" this holiday season in Forest Hills.