Cincinnati, OH – As holiday travel and shopping increase this week, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to take a few simple steps now to reduce the risk of crime at home.
According to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, darker winter evenings and unattended homes can create opportunities for theft and break-ins if basic safety measures are overlooked. The reminder was shared Thursday as part of a seasonal holiday safety campaign in partnership with National Neighborhood Watch.
One key recommendation is outdoor lighting. Deputies advise homeowners to ensure dark areas around entrances, driveways, and yards are well-lit, either by leaving lights on after dark or using motion-activated lighting. Well-lit homes are less likely to be targeted, according to crime prevention experts.
The sheriff’s office also emphasized the importance of landscaping maintenance. Overgrown trees, bushes, and shrubs can conceal doors and windows, potentially providing hiding spots for criminals. Keeping foliage trimmed improves visibility and makes suspicious activity easier to spot from the street or neighboring homes.
Mail security was another focus of the alert. Residents are encouraged to arrange for mail pickup or holds when traveling, as overflowing mailboxes can signal that a home is unoccupied. Even short trips can create vulnerabilities if deliveries are left unattended.
The safety tips come from the National Neighborhood Watch, a division of the National Sheriffs’ Association, which works with law enforcement agencies nationwide to promote community-based crime prevention.
Officials remind residents across Hamilton County — including Cincinnati and surrounding communities — that these small preventative steps can make a significant difference during the busy holiday season.
Anyone looking for additional safety guidance can find more information through the National Neighborhood Watch program and local law enforcement resources.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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