Crime Prevention

Vehicle Prowl Prevention

• Please be sure to lock your vehicle whether at home or away.
• Most vehicle prowls occur because the car was left unlocked and valuable items are left in view for anyone to see.
• Locking items in the trunk, or in a location the public cannot see, dramatically reduces the chance of becoming a victim.

Going on Vacation

The Police Department has a vacation house check system in place to do random checks of residences while you're away. When you request house checks, you will provide us with your contact information, how long you will be gone, and who is left behind to take care of your home. House check forms can be picked up from the front desk at the West Richland Police Department during business hours. If you have any questions contact the Police department at 509-967-3425.

Here is a list of suggestions to reduce becoming a victim while you are away:

• Lock all doors and windows. Use deadbolts, dowels, or locking pins in sliding glass doors and windows to keep them from being pried open.
• Never announce your vacation plans on Facebook, My Space, Twitter, or other social networking sites.
• Use timers on lights, radios, TVs, etc. to make them go on and off during the day and night to make your home appear occupied.
• Stop mail and newspaper delivery, or have a neighbor pick up anything left at the home.
• Ask the neighbors to watch your home and report any suspicious activities.
• Disconnect your electric garage door opener and padlock the door, preferably on the inside.
• Set your burglar alarm and notify your alarm company that you will be away. Request the company notify the police first instead of calling you if an alarm occurs when you are away. Also provide the alarm company with an up-to-date list of persons to contact about the alarm and the need to secure your home after a burglary.