The St. Matthews Police department offers a variety of education material to keep you and your loved ones safe.
Gun Safety
Auto break-ins / Auto Thefts Prevention
One of the most infuriating things that can happen to a car owner – and it’s one of the most common forms of larceny (theft) in the U.S. is the car break-in. They don’t even steal your whole car, just the valuable items in it – which you then must replace while dealing with the arduous and costly car-repairs.
While there’s no way to 100% deter these kinds of thieves, there are some common-sense steps you can take to make your vehicle a much less appealing target. Above all, thieves look for opportunities. Make them “work” for their pilfered prizes, and they’ll most likely just forget it and move on to an easier target.
- Roll up windows and lock car doors.
- Activate the vehicles alarm if it has one.
- Do not leave valuables in your car. If you must, place them in your trunk.
- If you can, park in your garage.
- Do not leave garage door opener visible in the vehicle. If you cannot park the vehicle in the garage, take the garage door opener inside.
- The vehicle title should be stored in a safe place inside your home. Only the registration papers and insurance card should be kept in the vehicle.
- Items such as a purse, gym bag, backpack, briefcase, or computer bag should not be left visible in the vehicle. These items should be placed in the trunk or out of sight before you get to your destination. Do not transfer or hide them at the parking place in view of others.
- Always park in a well-lighted area if possible.
- Never leave a vehicle running with the keys in the ignition.
- Write down vehicle information including license plate information, VIN #, as well as identifiable markings on the vehicle (i.e., stickers or damage etc.)
Child Car Seat Information
Please click on the following link to learn more about child safety and car seat information.
Home Security
Is your home secure? Can someone get in your home without breaking a window or door? Possibly with a key that is under the doormat or flowerpot on the porch. Are all your windows locked? If you could find a way to break into your home, so could a burglar. The St. Matthews Police Department can send an officer to your home for a free security assessment. They will review your home’s current security and make suggestions for improvements. Contact the St. Matthews Police Department at 502-893-9000 for a Home Security Inspection.
Home Security Tips:
- Always keep doors and windows locked when you are not at home.
- Leave an extra key with a trusted neighbor, not under a doormat or planter.
- Doors leading from the attached garage to the house should be locked.
- There should be no dark area around the house that would hide prowlers.
- Every outside door should have a working light to illuminate visitors.
- Shrubs and bushes should be trimmed to prevent blocking view of the front of the house.
- House number should be clearly displayed for emergency vehicles to find the house quickly.
- Sheds or outdoor buildings should be locked.
- At least two indoor lights should be on timers to turn the lights on/off in a logical sequence when occupants are away from home for an extended period of time. The light should be visible from the street.
- If you are going to be gone for an extended period, have your mail and newspaper stopped or have a trusted neighbor pick them up.
- Ask a neighbor to tend to the yard and watch the home if you are away.
- Contact the St. Matthews Police Department for a house watch if you are going to be away from home.
Personal Security
Crime is a frightening problem. You may be concerned about your personal security while out or in your vehicle. You can learn how to reduce your chances of becoming a crime victim.
- Always be alert to your surroundings and the people around you.
- Try to avoid walking alone at night.
- Stay in well-lit areas if possible.
- Make eye contact with people when walking.
- Walk confidently at a steady pace.
- Do not wear anything that will impede your vision or hearing (i.e., iPods).
- Trust your instincts and react if you feel you are in danger.
- Always lock your car doors after entering or leaving your vehicle.
- Park in well lighted areas.
- Have your car keys in your hand so you don’t have to linger before entering your car.
- Check the interior of your vehicle before entering your car.
- Travel on main roads as much as possible.
- Drive on well-lit streets at night.
- Keep valuables out of view.
- If you feel you are being followed by another vehicle, do not drive home.
- Do not pull over if a suspicious driver motions you to do so.
- Trust your instincts.