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Crime Prevention Tips

​NIH Division of Police tips to help prevent crime:

Police fight crime.  Our techniques and methods are designed to use science, technology, and proven methods to find a culprit and legally apprehend them.  We are professionals who are well equipped and trained to accomplish this task. 

But we are not even in the same league as you, the public, when it comes to crime fighting potential.  Every crime statistic is a failure; the crime has already occurred.  The best crime fighting strategies are those you employ every day to prevent crimes from ever occurring.

Here are some Crime Fighting Tips you can use in the workplace and at home.


🏢Crime Prevention at Work:

🧠 General Awareness & Vigilance
  • Stay alert: Report suspicious persons, packages, or behavior immediately to security or law enforcement.
  • Know your surroundings: Familiarize yourself with emergency exits, alarm systems, and security personnel.
  • Challenge strangers: Politely ask to see identification if you see someone without a visible badge or escort.
  • Trust your instincts: If something feels off, report it—don't ignore your intuition.​
🏢 Physical Security
  • Secure doors and windows: Keep offices, labs, and storage areas locked when unattended.
  • Never prop open secured entrances: Even briefly—this creates a vulnerability for unauthorized access.
  • Badge control: Wear your ID badge at all times and never lend it to others.
  • Escort visitors: Ensure all visitors have proper badges and remain with their host at all times.
  • Lighting: Ensure outdoor and parking areas are well-lit to deter theft or assault.
💻 Information & Cybersecurity
  • Lock your computer: Always lock your workstation (Ctrl+Alt+Del or Windows+L) when leaving your desk.
  • Protect sensitive data: Shred documents with personal or research information before disposal.
  • Avoid sharing passwords: Keep login credentials private and use strong, unique passwords.
  • Beware of phishing: Don't click links or open attachments from unknown senders.
  • Use encrypted devices: Especially for laptops, phones, and storage drives containing sensitive data.
🚗 Parking Lot & Personal Safety
  • Park in well-lit areas: Especially if arriving early or leaving after dark.
  • Secure valuables: Keep purses, laptops, and electronics out of sight or locked in the trunk.
  • Lock your car: Even inside gated or “secure" lots.
  • Walk with others: Use the “buddy system" when possible, or request an escort from campus security.
  • Have keys ready: Avoid standing by your car searching through bags for keys.
💬 Incident Response & Reporting
  • Know who to call: Save security and emergency numbers in your phone (e.g., NIH Police: 301-496-5685).
  • Report promptly: Even minor incidents (e.g., theft, harassment, vandalism) help identify patterns.
  • Participate in drills: Take evacuation and active threat exercises seriously.
  • Support coworkers: Encourage a culture of mutual awareness and accountability.
🧯 Special Considerations for Research/Healthcare Settings
  • Control access to labs or restricted areas: Use badge readers and biometric controls properly.
  • Secure hazardous materials: Follow chain-of-custody procedures for chemicals and biologicals.
  • Inventory equipment regularly: Report missing or tampered research tools or materials immediately.
  • Protect patient and subject privacy: Follow HIPAA and NIH data security protocols at all times.


🏡 Crime Prevention at Home:

🔐 Securing Your Home
  • Lock all doors and windows: Even when you're home or stepping out briefly.
  • Use quality locks: Install deadbolts and reinforced strike plates on exterior doors.
  • Secure sliding doors and windows: Use dowels or security bars to prevent forced entry.
  • Change locks when moving in: You never know who might have a copy of old keys.
  • Install peepholes or smart doorbells: See who's at your door before opening it.
💡 Lighting & Visibility
  • Use exterior lighting: Keep entryways, driveways, and walkways well-lit.
  • Install motion-sensor lights: Deter intruders by lighting unexpected movement.
  • Trim shrubs and trees: Avoid giving burglars places to hide near windows or doors.
  • Use timers on indoor lights: Create the illusion of occupancy when you're away.
🎥 Surveillance & Alarms​
  • ​Install a home security system: Choose one with monitored alarm and camera options.
  • Use visible deterrents: Display security signs or camera decals.
  • Smart cameras & doorbells: Monitor deliveries and activity remotely.
  • Keep system active: Arm your alarm even during short errands or when sleeping.
🚪 When You're Away
  • Hold mail & packages: Ask USPS to hold delivery or have a neighbor collect them.
  • Avoid posting travel plans: Wait until after your trip to share photos online.
  • Park a car in the driveway: Keeps the home looking occupied.
  • Ask neighbors to help: Have someone pick up flyers or move trash bins.
🔑 Personal & Family Safety
  • Create a family emergency plan: Know escape routes and safe meeting spots.
  • Keep emergency numbers handy: Police, fire, medical, utilities, and trusted neighbors.
  • Teach kids safety basics: Don't open doors for strangers, share info online, or disclose when parents aren't home.
  • Have a “safe room" plan: Designate a locked, well-communicated spot in case of intrusion.
  • Secure firearms properly: Use gun safes or locks, and store ammunition separately.
🚗 Garage & Outdoor Security
  • Lock the garage: Keep doors closed and locked, even when you're home.
  • Secure tools & ladders: Don't leave items outside that could help a burglar enter.
  • Check garage side doors: These are often the easiest points of entry.
  • Fence and gate security: Use sturdy locks and repair weak spots quickly.
👥 Community Involvement
  • Join or start a Neighborhood Watch: Stay informed about local safety issues.
  • Get to know your neighbors: Look out for each other's homes when away.
  • Report suspicious activity: Even if it seems minor—it helps law enforcement spot patterns.
  • Stay updated: Follow local police or community alerts via text or app.
🔋 Emergency Preparedness
  • Keep flashlights and batteries handy: For power outages or emergencies.
  • Have a small safe: Store important documents, jewelry, and emergency cash.
  • Maintain fire safety: Check smoke and CO alarms monthly; keep extinguishers accessible.
  • Plan for medical needs: Maintain first-aid supplies and a go-bag for emergencies.