Westlake Village a safe place to live, cops say
By Michael Picarella
Acorn Staff Writer

Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station is concerned with community crime. L.A. County Sheriff Leroy D. Baca has outlined a few things that should become common sense in terms of "street sense."

Last year in the city of Westlake Village alone, there were 158 Part I crimes. That’s 14 more vs. 1999.

Part I crimes include burglaries. Westlake Village had 29 residential incidents in 2000, 28 of businesses, 19 vehicle burglaries and six of garages/out-buildings.

Grand theft (exceeding $400) was up to 34 incidents in 2000, petty theft at 23 incidents, vehicle theft (unlocked) at three and four vehicles were stolen. Deputies responded to three calls of domestic violence and one rape. There were no homicides or arson.

To reduce crime, the sheriff’s station recommended to the Westlake Village City Council these prevention tips:

•Wherever you are, whether on the street, in an office building or shopping mall, driving or waiting for transportation, stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings.

•Send the message that you’re calm, confident and know where you’re going.

•Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, avoid it or the person or leave.

•Know the neighborhoods where you live and work. Know the locations of police and fire stations, public telephones, hospitals and restaurants or stores that are open late.

When on foot at day or night:

•Stick to well-lighted, well-traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots or alleys.

•Don’t flash money or jewelry.

•Carry your purse close to your body. Put your wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket, not in your back pocket.

•Try to use automated teller machines during the daytime. Have your ATM card in hand before reaching the machine.

•Don’t wear clothing or shoes that restrict your movement.

•Have your car or house key in hand before you reach the door.

•If you think someone is following, switch directions or go into a store or restaurant.

•If you must work late, make sure there are others in the building with you. Have someone accompany you to your car.

If you’re in your vehicle:

•Keep it in good running condition. Make sure there’s enough gas to get to where you’re going and back.

•Always roll up your windows and lock your doors, even if you’re coming right back.

•Avoid parking in isolated areas, especially underground garages.

•If you think someone is following you, don’t go home. Drive to the nearest police or fire station, restaurant, etc.

•Don’t pick up hitchhikers. Don’t hitchhike.

On a bus:

•Watch who gets off with you.

•Don’t daze off or daydream.

•Use well-lighted, busy stops.

If someone tries to rob you:

•Don’t resist. Give up your property, not your life.

•Report the crime to the police. Always try to make note of the attacker.

Above all, the sheriff’s department hopes for everyone to take a stand to help make the community a safer place. Report broken streetlights, join neighborhood watches and help friends emotionally who’ve been victims of a crime.

For more information or if you have any questions, call Dep. Shawn Brownell at (818) 878-1808, ext. 3103.