Keeping Our Neighborhood Safe
Archives...Page One
Traveling ?
A Warning About Phone Calls to Your Hotel Room
Never trust that a phone call placed to your room phone in a hotel was made from inside the hotel.
If you are staying in a hotel and receive a call to the phone in your room from the front desk about the need to repair something in your room, the need to deliver something to you, or about a problem with your credit card, hang up and call the front desk back.
Sometimes when people call the main desk and ask to be transferred to a room, or, in some cases, when they have their calls transferred several times from extension to extension around the hotel, the calls appear to have originated internally when they did not.
___________________________
Reviewing Henderson Police Department's
School Zone Safety Video
Clark County Schools will be begin the 2019-2020 year on Monday, August 12, 2019.
Driving through school zones has its own set of rules during the time students are attending classes and carry HUGE fines for those driving improperly.
The Henderson Police Department issued a brief video as to ensuring CHILD SAFETY.
We strongly suggest you view it. Though originally produced in 2017, it's till as applicable today as it was 2 years ago.
Approximately a year ago, Anthem Opinions published an article about this subject and we thought it might be a good idea to remind you of some of the "rules of the road" regarding this issue.
Just what is the law in Nevada ?
Vehicles traveling on a divided highway in the opposite direction of a stopped school bus with flashing red stop signals do not have to stop.
How is a divided highway defined?
...a curb, physical median, divider wall....those areas are created as a buffer between opposing lanes.
What about kids crossing at an intersection with a raised median?
They may do so....pausing at the raised median, then proceeding when it is clear and safe to do so.
Opposing traffic does not have to stop if it is not controlled by a traffic control device; however, ALL INTERSECTIONS HAVE IMPLIED CROSSWALKS...
...but...
...if a bus heading northbound stops with flashing red lights, all northbound traffic must stop, allowing a child to cross at the intersection of the northbound travel lanes safely.
A pedestrian has a duty.....if that individual wishes to cross the southbound lanes, they must yield at the divided median, and not proceed unless safe to do so.
What about the southbound traffic in this case when they see a pedestrian crossing a median?
All southbound traffic MUST YIELD to the pedestrian in an intersection due to the IMPLIED CROSSWALK.
Note: not all intersections have marked crosswalks.
What about travel lanes without a buffer or median?
Traffic heading in BOTH DIRECTIONS must stop.
Here's a helpful guideline:
What's the penalty for not properly stopping for a school bus?
In Nevada....
1st Offense:
Misdemeanor with a fine of between $250 and $500
2nd Offense (within one year):
Misdemeanor with a fine of $250 to $500 and driver's license suspension for six months with 4 point on your drivers licence.
3rd Offense (within two years after the most recent offense):
Misdemeanor with a fine of not more than $1,000 and driver's license suspension for not more than one year.
___________________________
Deciding When to Place a Senior in Long-Term Care
The Most Difficult Decision One Has to Make
There is no doubt that this is one of the most agonizing decisions for any senior loved one, since it almost always runs counter to the affected senior's personal wishes...
...but...
...sadly, we must, sooner or later, come to such decision if the situation warrants it.
There are warning signs, however, which are good indicators that the time has come for some form of assisted living, and that an elderly person would be safer in a more formalized, structured environment.
The following are some of those warning signs, signs we all hope none of us will experience, yet sadly are in many respects, the result of life's increasing longevity.
Wandering
Quite often in the later stages of dementia, seniors begin to wander more frequently, because they have become increasingly disoriented and confused about their home surroundings, and nothing seems recognizable to them anymore.
This can happen just in the time it takes you to go to the kitchen for a drink of water, and as such, it represents a grave risk to the senior.
At this point, constant monitoring may become necessary.
Home Safety Deficiencies
It may also be that the level of home safety needed by a disabled senior has outstripped what you are able to provide, and a safer environment would be more beneficial for them.
In some cases, the cost of installing the many safety devices needed, or of making a residence completely accident-proof, simply exceeds the means of loved ones.
Increasing Aggression
At a certain stage of dementia, some seniors begin to demonstrate more overtly aggressive behavior, often threatening caregivers physically, and/or emotionally.
This in turn, can give rise to resentment on the part of a family member, creating a mood of tension between them, and even downright hostility.
Sundowner Syndrome
One particular condition known as "Sundowner Syndrome" affects many elderly people with Alzheimer’s, and in this scenario, the senior often exhibits very agitated behavior that is typically triggered during the later hours of the day.
This has been known to severely impact family life, and to place an undue burden on many family members, so that the living experience for all concerned is degraded and made less safe or healthful.
Escalating Care Requirements
When it becomes clear that the degree of care needed by an elderly person exceeds the family member's ability to supply such care, this may be another trigger point for considering assisted living.
For instance, in situations where a senior has reached the later stages of dementia, constant care and monitoring may be necessary, and this is not often possible for loved ones to provide.
Has a loved one exhibited these stages of Alzheimer's Disease?
If so, no matter what course of action a person might take, never forget this helpful advice !
And when the going seems to be "too much"...NEVER FORGET !
__________________
__________________________
Lower the Volume on your Landline Phone When Not Home or Traveling
Why?
If you are not home and the ringer is too loud and the call goes to voice mail, it's an open invitation for the wrong person to enter your home !
____________________________
Wants to Deliver Something Held at McCarran Airport
This email is now being widely circulated and, for your protection, MUST BE DELETED rather than responded to in ANY WAY.
Re: Your Abandoned Package For Delivery
I have very vital information to give to you, but first I must have your trust before I review it to you because it may cause me my job, so I need somebody that I can trust for me to be able to review the secret to you.
I am Mr.Joseph Scott, head of luggage/baggage storage facilities here at the McCarran International Airport,Nevada USA.
During my recent withheld package routine check at the Airport Storage Vault, I discovered an abandoned shipment from a Diplomat from London and when scanned it revealed an undisclosed sum of money in a metal trunk box.
The consignment was abandoned because the Contents of the consignment was not properly declared by the consignee as “MONEY”; rather it was declared as personal effect to avoid interrogation and also the inability of the diplomat to pay for the United States Non Inspection Charges which is $3,700 USD.
On my assumption the consignment is still left in our Storage House here at the International Airport Nevada till date. The details of the consignment including your name, your email address and the official documents from the United Nations office in Geneva are tagged on the Trunk box.
During my recent withheld package routine check at the Airport Storage Vault, I discovered an abandoned shipment from a Diplomat from London and when scanned it revealed an undisclosed sum of money in a metal trunk box.
The consignment was abandoned because the Contents of the consignment was not properly declared by the consignee as “MONEY”; rather it was declared as personal effect to avoid interrogation and also the inability of the diplomat to pay for the United States Non Inspection Charges which is $3,700 USD.
On my assumption the consignment is still left in our Storage House here at the International Airport Nevada till date. The details of the consignment including your name, your email address and the official documents from the United Nations office in Geneva are tagged on the Trunk box.
However, to enable me confirm if you are the actual recipient of this consignment as the assistant director of the Inspection Unit, I will advise you provide your current Phone Number and Full Address, to enable me cross check if it corresponds with the address on the official documents including the name of nearest Airport around your city.
Please note that this consignment is supposed to have been returned to the United States Treasury Department as unclaimed delivery due to the delays in concluding the clearance processes so as a result of this, I will not be able to receive your details on my official email account.
So in order words to enable me, cross check your details, I will advise you to send the required details to my private email address for quick processing and response.
Once I confirm you as the actual recipient of the trunk box, I can get everything concluded within 48 hours upon your acceptance and proceed to your address for delivery.
Please note that this consignment is supposed to have been returned to the United States Treasury Department as unclaimed delivery due to the delays in concluding the clearance processes so as a result of this, I will not be able to receive your details on my official email account.
So in order words to enable me, cross check your details, I will advise you to send the required details to my private email address for quick processing and response.
Once I confirm you as the actual recipient of the trunk box, I can get everything concluded within 48 hours upon your acceptance and proceed to your address for delivery.
KINDLY FILL IN THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:
Your Full Name:
Your Country:
Your Direct Telephone Numbers:
Your Direct Office Phone Numbers:
Mobile Phone Number:
Your Current Home Address:
Your Office Address:
Your age:
Lastly, be informed that the reason I have taken it upon myself to contact you personally about this abandoned consignment is because I want us to transact this business and share the money 80% for you and 20% for me since the consignment has not yet been returned to the United States Treasury Department after being abandoned by the diplomat so immediately the confirmation is made, I will go ahead and pay for the United States Non Inspection Fee of $3,700 dollars and arrange for the box to be delivered to your doorstep
Or I can bring it by myself to avoid any more trouble,but you have to assure me of my 20% share.
Or I can bring it by myself to avoid any more trouble,but you have to assure me of my 20% share.
I wait to hear from you urgently if you are still alive and I will appreciate if we can keep this deal confidential.
Please if am not available to accept your call, please and drop a message or send me a text or email.
Thank you.
Mr.Joseph Scott
Assistance Inspection Director
McCarran International Airport
Las Vegas Nevada,
WMO 72386, United States
for
an
an
Earthquake
.png)
Can Las Vegas have a serious earthquake?
You bet it can....and more so here than in 46 other states.
Only California and Alaska incur more earthquakes than Nevada.
Seven quakes of magnitude of 6.5 or greater have struck Nevada in the past century, but none has occurred since 1954.
...and...
WE'RE DUE !
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIgksa3x11w
Do you know what causes an earthquake? Watch this short video and you'll know more than the average person.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIgksa3x11w
If you were a resident of Sun City Anthem five years ago, on October 5, 2014 at 3:11am, a 3.6 quake struck Spring Valley, Nevada...a short 10 miles from Las Vegas !
Coming from the Midwest, this was a "first" for my wife and I and though it was a unique experience, it also opened up our eyes to take it seriously and plan for the next one !
Coming from the Midwest, this was a "first" for my wife and I and though it was a unique experience, it also opened up our eyes to take it seriously and plan for the next one !
And within 235 miles of our town, in two days, two others of serious magnitude "hit" a bit too close for comfort...with more predicted in the days to come.
This was Ridgecrest, California !
This was Ridgecrest, California !
And...as a result...
The 7.1 quake within a short distance from Las Vegas should be an eye opener.
What is the severity of an earthquake reading?
According to the Las Vegas Review Journal:
"After two straight days of ground shaking, including the largest earthquake in Southern California in two decades, residents in this desert community about 235 miles southwest of Las Vegas have been forced to reckon with an anxiety-stirring prospect — they don’t know what to expect next."
"The 6.4 rattled people,” said Mimi Teller, a spokeswoman for the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region. “The 7.1 threw them over the edge.”
Most people are unaware that the Las Vegas valley is SURROUNDED by a number of seismic faults, capable of producing a major quake.
Do you carry earthquake insurance through your homeowners policy?
Most people don't realize that similar to flooding, earthquake damage IS NOT COVERED on your policy unless a RIDER is ADDED to the coverage.
That's for your individual budget to determine, but one has to ask one's self...
...Is it worth the additional cost per year to protect an asset worth $200,000 to $1,000,000 depending on the value of your home ?
I do...and I carry earthquake insurance, not just for peace of mind in protecting one of my most valued assets, but because I place the cost in proper perspective.
Do you drop a few of hundred bucks in a slot machine in a year?
I do...and I'll bet most of you do as well.
and...we all know those big buildings aren't built on people winning, don't we?
So...if you can "sacrifice" that slot machine a few times over an ENTIRE YEAR...
...is it worth it ???...
..to protect your home from such devastation?
I think so...and it's free to call your insurance agent to find out what it costs to add it to your present coverage.
That might be the ex-insurance man in me, but I have to admit, that in the 35 years I spent in that industry....
Never ONCE....
Did I ever have a claimant refuse to cash a check !!!!
Think about this when you see the people of Ridgecrest, California as many were likely penny wise and dollar foolish...
...and now have NOTHING !
__________________________
Smart Phone Safety Advice
Set the home address in your smartphone, GPS, and other devices to an address near your home, but not to your actual home address.
If someone steals your phone or breaks into your car while you are away from home, you do not want the crook to attempt to rob your home or call friends in the area to do so.
Theoretically, any paperwork in a car that contains your home address should be kept locked up in the glove compartment to minimize the risk of that information being misused for similar nefarious purposes, but, realistically, that is an inconvenience that most people are unwilling to endure, and papers are less likely than electronics to get swiped during a quick break-in.
_____________________
The human body is normally able to regulate its temperature through sweating, until it is exposed to more heat than it can handle.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can escalate rapidly, leading to delirium, organ damage and even death.
Infants and young children, especially if left in hot cars.
People 65 and older.
People who are ill, have chronic health conditions or are on certain medications.
People who are overweight.
Heat Exhaustion
When the body loses excessive water and salt, usually due to sweating, heat exhaustion can occur.
Signs and symptoms include:
Sweating.
Pale, ashen or moist skin.
Muscle cramps (especially for those working or exercising outdoors in high temperatures).
Fatigue, weakness or exhaustion.
Headache, dizziness or fainting.
Nausea or vomiting.
Rapid heart rate.
Uncontrolled heat exhaustion can evolve into heat stroke, so make sure to treat victims quickly:
Move victims to a shaded or air-conditioned area.
Give water or other cool, nonalcoholic beverages.
Apply wet towels, or have victims take a cool shower.
Heat Stroke
Seek medical help immediately if someone is suffering from heat stroke.
Signs include:
Body temperature above 103 degrees.
Skin that is flushed, dry and hot to the touch; sweating has usually stopped.
Rapid breathing.
Headache, dizziness, confusion or other signs of altered mental status.
Irrational or belligerent behavior.
Convulsions or unresponsiveness.
Immediately take action:
Call 911
Move the victim to a cool place.
Remove unnecessary clothing.
Immediately cool the victim, preferably by immersing up to the neck in cold water (with the help of a second rescuer).
If immersion in cold water is not possible, place the victim in a cold. shower or move to a cool area and cover as much of the body as possible with cold, wet towels.
Keep cooling until body temperature drops to 101 degrees.
Monitor the victim's breathing and be ready to give CPR if needed.
Force the victim to drink liquids.
Apply rubbing alcohol to the skin.
Allow victims to take pain relievers or salt tablets.
The best way to avoid a heat-related illness is to limit exposure outdoors during hot days.
Air conditioning is the best way to cool off.
Drink fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty, and avoid alcohol.
Wear loose, lightweight clothing and a hat.
Replace salt lost from sweating by drinking fruit juice or sports drinks.
Avoid spending time outdoors during the hottest part of the day, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Wear sunscreen; sunburn affects the body's ability to cool itself.
Pace yourself when you run or otherwise exert your body.
_____________________________
Sun City Anthem Community Patrol
Advice
Leaving Your Key in the Mail Box
by
Robert Nusser
Sun City Anthem Community Patrol
The Community Patrol vehicles seen patrolling SCA do a variety of functions including, but not limited to, observing the common mailboxes.
Occasionally it will be observed that someone inadvertently left their key still in the mailbox lock.
When the patrol member observes such, an attempt is made to contact the resident that forget his/her key.
The patrol member will inspect the interior of the mailbox, hoping to find some sort of identification.
Many times there is none, and many times only the name of the mailbox owner.
Unless the patrol member ‘knows’ that person (statistically unlikely) OR a passerby happens to know that person (also statistically unlikely), it’s impossible to identify the owner of the key – and note MANY times there are additional keys involved (such as a key to the house).
So, PLEASE put your name AND YOUR ADDRESS inside your mailbox.
This has “saved the day” on many occasions as the Patrol member can go to the house and notify the people.
Without the address being identified, it’s sometimes impossible to identify the correct owner.
__________________________
Home & Hotel Peepholes
Some Cautionary Advice
Most peephole technology can be defeated.
If you have a peephole without a cover at home, assume that people can see through it from the outside of your house.
If you are ever staying in a hotel room that has a door with an uncovered peephole, put a crumpled tissue in the peephole so that nobody can see into your room through the peephole.
If you are ever staying in a hotel room that has a door with an uncovered peephole, put a crumpled tissue in the peephole so that nobody can see into your room through the peephole.
A Travel Safety Tip
Phone Calls to Your Hotel Room
Never trust that a phone call placed to your room phone in a hotel was made from inside the hotel.
If you are staying in a hotel and receive a call to the phone in your room from the front desk about the need to repair something in your room, the need to deliver something to you, or about a problem with your credit card, hang up and call the front desk back.
Sometimes when people call the main desk and ask to be transferred to a room, or, in some cases, when they have their calls transferred several times from extension to extension around the hotel, the calls appear to have originated internally when they did not.
_____________________________
Use A Car Key for Self-Defense
If you carry a physical car key, keep it in your hand when walking alone, especially in parking lots.
Having your key available reduces the amount of time between when you approach your car and when you drive away, thereby reducing your exposure to attack.
Also, a physical key protruding between your knuckles as you make a closed fist can serve as a solid makeshift weapon in case someone does try to attack you.
___________________________
Tired of Robo-calls ?
Cell Phone Companies Finally Acting
Cell Phone Companies Finally Acting
Finally....
...Cell phone companies are taking their own steps to block those annoying "robo-calls.
T-Mobile, AT&T and Sprint have either already started, or will soon begin, implementing the STIR/SHAKEN standards, which are protocols that verify if a call is real or if it comes from a computer.
T-Mobile also has additional measures to protect you from these calls.
The company built its own database of fake numbers. Anytime you get a call from these numbers, your caller ID will label the call as "spam likely."
The company built its own database of fake numbers. Anytime you get a call from these numbers, your caller ID will label the call as "spam likely."
AT&T also hooks up its customers with a free app called Call Protect.
It's similar to No-Mo-Robo, which blocks robocalls.
AT&T identifies robocalls by looking for patterns in the calls. A paid version is also available.
Sprint offers premium caller ID at an additional price. Every call that comes through your phone will be identified.
Now, Verizon doesn't use STIR/SHAKEN on its network. However, the company is about to offer a free app that blocks robocalls.
It'll also alert customers of potential spam calls and will provide a caller ID on all calls. The new app rolls out in March.
________________________
...and finding the "right person" to perform it, can be a difficult task.
Did you know that there is a web site that can help you find one?
It's called:
This web site can greatly assist you in finding that "right person" for a specific type of surgery.
It not only summarizes WHO does what, but includes if other physicians recommend the individual, Board certifications, and the hospital in which they are affiliated.
The ratings are from the period 2010 thru 2014, but can be another source of information on your choice of the "right person" to trust your life.
_________________________
Credit Card...ATM Usage
Look First !
Before making a credit card payment or using an ATM machine, check the device for added-on cameras or "skimming technology."
If a card reader appears to have been tampered with, or something appears strange about an ATM machine, find another machine and notify someone in the store or bank that something may be amiss.
Obviously, do the same for any machine that takes a biometric read of yourself.
If something seems to have been added to the device, do not provide the system with your fingerprints, or allow it to scan your iris, etc.
_________________________
Too Much Information on Social Media
Can Spell Safety Problems
Do not over share on social media.
People have a tendency to post vacation pictures while still far from home, but, if such information is seen by the wrong sets of eyes it can lead to attempts to rob your home.
Also, do not respond to social-media invitations to events that involve all the residents of your home.
Doing so can let the public know in advance that nobody will be home at a certain time.
___________________________
Key Fobs
Using Them to Protect Your Safety
Keep your car key fob reachable from your bed; your night table is a good storage location.
Car fobs contain panic buttons, and can double as a great alarm in case of emergency.
Pressing the panic button will cause your vehicle to repetitively blast its horn and flash its headlights .
If your car is in the driveway this can draw attention to your location and (hopefully) scare would-be-criminals away.
Police responding to a call may find your home faster as well.
Consider storing your key fob wrapped in aluminum foil.
Some cars can be broken into using devices that boost and relay signals from remote key fobs; wrapping a fob in aluminum foil when it is not in use can protect against such crimes.
_________________________
First Responders Offer Advice in Case of
Medical Emergency
by
Marcia Kosterka
Sun City Anthem Resident
Recently, I was at Fire House Station 99 in Sun City Anthem to bring them something for those that were working on New Years Eve and New Years Day. This was not the first time I have been there for information and I have gotten to know some of these First Responders. They are always polite and helpful.
Once there, I asked them a question that has been on my mind for some time.
When they are called for an impending health crisis, it occurred to me that they may need immediate information on that individual to expedite resolution of the health crisis such as a heart attack or other serious issue.
They thought that was a very good question.
They would like every home to have a list of the following for each person living in a home:
1. Name(s) of resident.
2. Who is to be contacted in case of an emergency with all contact information including cell phone number(s).
3. All medication each individual is currently taking including dosage.
4. Any known allergies.
5. Who locally may have a key to the home and contact information. (It may be a neighbor or friend).
6. If you have an alarm system, who has the code.
7.The name and contact number of your primary care physician.
8. Who can make medical decisions for the person in question if they are not able, i.e. unconscious.
I then asked them where this pertinent and vital information should be placed once they have access to the home.
The answer was ON THE REFRIGERATOR.
Once I had left, another thought occurred to me.
If someone is uncomfortable in posting this information on the front of their refrigerator, they could fold it and place it in a sealed envelope marked TO THE FIRE DEPARTMENT on the door of the refrigerator.
This way it would protect their privacy from anyone who is in their kitchen and this information could help save their lives.
Having spent my entire professional career caring for our veterans, I know that time is of the essence and this information would be so valuable to help a person in an impending medical crisis.
Do not assume that because you do not live alone, this is not necessary.
Chances are you and whomever you live with, will not always be home at the same time.
The Fire Department urges all residents to take this advice seriously as it could save your life in an emergency.
_____________________
It can happen in affluent neighborhoods. It can happen in low-income neighborhoods.
It's a crime that goes across the sectors.
Frequently, thieves are looking for jewelry, cash, and smaller items they can simply grab and sell later.
While many are unplanned, smash-and-grab events, a surprising number of burglaries are premeditated by shrewder thieves. The shrewd ones know when you leave your house, how long you're usually gone, have looked at the access points to your house, and know escape routes, if there are signs of security, when there's less traffic on the street. ...
...they've looked at your routine and pattern to figure out when their best opportunities are going to be.
So...how do you lesson burglaries?
Here are some tips !
Find Your Weak Spots
First thing’s first. Before adding extra fortification, alarms, and the like, you should evaluate your home’s current security, looking for easy points of entry.
First, take a look at your house and look for the opportunities that, if you had locked yourself out, and had to get into your home, you could.
If you can get in, so can a burglar.
That's an area you want to fortify.
Lock it Up
Rather than break down side doors, burglars tend to walk in through unlocked front doors or first-floor windows.
It's estimated that about 60% of burglaries happen that way.
They really want to come through the front door.
The solution? Easy. Use your locks. It seems like common sense, but there are still so many people who don't do that, who don't think about things like locking the door between your garage and your home."
If you want to go beyond simple locks, consider reinforcing the front door. Reinforce your door so you can’t kick it open.
Reinforce the doorjamb with a heavy-duty, multi-screw strike plate and three-inch screws.
Consider Your Shrubbery
Burglars tend to target homes where it’s easier for them to remain unseen.
Landscaping with large trees or bushes can conceal points of entry like windows and doors, as well as camouflage the thieves themselves.
To prevent this, prune plant life prudently.
Worried about bare, uninteresting lawns or front yards?
Don’t panic.
If you don't have high bushes, but you do worry about someone trying to break into your window, think about thorny plants or small bushes near your windows—a small rosebush or a boxwood that's prickly, so your landscaping can also help you deter burglars.
Look for Lighting Opportunities
A well-lit outdoor area is another way to reduce a thief's incentive.
If you tend to get home late, or you’re not home at night, motion lights are a good idea. Any door into your home that has an outside light, replace that light with a motion infrared sensor light, and they’ll work automatically.
Have them so they reset automatically after 30 seconds.
To go the extra mile, consider installing indoor lights with timers, as well. You can make it look like someone's home and moving around the house … by having the light go on in the bedroom, and the light in the kitchen 10 minutes later.
Sound the Alarm
Security systems are effective. Burglars look for those signs of increased security.
Sometimes that can be enough of a deterrent for them to go to another household.
Recent technological advances mean you can even control certain systems from your smart phone. Things like that make it less expensive than a traditional alarm system, and give you more flexibility.
Of course, if you don’t want to spring for the whole kit and caboodle, a simple sticker might do.
The lawn sign and window decals advertising the existence of an alarm system is what deters many burglars.
While You’re Away
It’s no secret that burglars look for vacant homes, which means yours becomes an appealing target when you’re away for any length of time.
The key is to make it look like the home is not unoccupied.
While you’re vacationing, take care to have the little details accounted for, like:
Newspapers collecting at your door and driveway.
Don’t broadcast your vacation plans beyond your immediate circle, especially on social media outlets like Facebook.
That friend of a friend of a friend might not be as honest as you’d like.
Like a Good Neighbor
Whether you’re on vacation or just away for the night, the best barriers to burglary are the people who live around you.
Talk to your neighbors and get to know them. If they know you, and they know your routines, then they know if someone is trying to go into your house; they can spot suspicious activity and they should call the police.
Even just one eagle-eyed person can be helpful. Find one neighbor you trust and ask them to look out for your house while you're on vacation.
If you don't have that opportunity, ask a friend to house-sit for you.
Document Your Belongings
Though most burglars are never caught, you have a much better chance at recovering stolen goods if you have records to prove they existed in the first place.
Most victims of a burglary—first time—most people can’t file an adequate insurance claim, because they don’t have records of what was taken. They don’t have purchase records, serial numbers, etc. Whatever it is that’s taken, they can’t report it, and they can’t file a claim.
To increase your odds of retrieval, you really have to go around and take inventory.
Everybody has a digital camera now, so take a picture of your stuff in its native area.
It's easy to forget valuables in the moment when you're talking to law enforcement, With thorough documentation, you don't have to recall valuables during one of the most traumatic experiences of your life.
___________________________
Plants Toxic to Dogs
Keep your dog away from:
Azalea
Bouncing Bet
Buckeye
Buttercup
Castor Bean
Catnip
Cherry
Cocklebur
Common Burdock
Cowbane
Daphne
Death Angel Mushrooms
Death Camas
Death Cap Mushrooms
Destroying Angels
Dogbane
Dumbcane
Easter Lily
English Ivy
Ergot
Fly Agaric
Flox
Foxtail Barley
Golden Chain
Horse Chestnut
Jack in the Pulpit
Jimson Weed
Laburnun
Lantana
Lily of the Valley
Marijuana
Milkweed
Monkey Agaric Mushrooms
Nightshades
Oleander
Panther
Panther Cap Mushrooms
Poison Hemlock
Pokeweed
Red Oak
Red Sage
Rhododendron
Rhubarb
Rosary Pea
Spurges
Stinging Nettle
Tansy
Tobacco
Water Hemlock
West Indian Lantana
White Snakeroot
Yellow Sage
Yew
Our thanks to resident Robert Nusser for providing this information to those loving their pets.
_____________________
Window Locks
Many times the best foundation for good window security isn't the alarms, electronics, or other high-tech doodads that people get now.
Rather it is the locks and other items that are used to seal the window shut.
While there are many different kinds that you can have, it often depends on the type of window that you have in your home. Here is some basic information about the various types of window security you could have.
Bolt Lock
A bolt lock is very similar to what you will find on many doors. The reason for that is due to the fact that you often need to have a key to operate them.
These types of window locks are usually only found on sliding casement windows.
Use a Screw
A very simple way of preventing your window from opening too far is to use a screw.
Just drive a screw into the window sill a few inches away from the pane of glass and it will stop the window from going any further.
Specialized Locks
There are some specialized locks that some companies make for sliding windows. These are usually very similar in nature though, and simply slip over the window track.
Turn a lever on the lock, and the window will not move.
If you set the lock far enough back before you turn the lock, you can still open your window slightly.
Key Track Stop
A key track stop is a very simple device that can be placed anywhere along a window track.
Turn the key until it won't move anymore and you have created an item that will stop your window from moving.
Locking Pins
Most commonly found on double hung windows, a locking pin is a rather simple security device. It goes through one window sash into the other, and prevents anyone from lifting the sash.
Turnbuckle
A turnbuckle, particularly a keyed one, is very similar to the bolt lock for sliding casement windows. To open the window, you simply use a key to unlock the turnbuckle, and then you can lift the window open.
Ventilating Locks
These types of locks screw into the side of the top sash of a window.
When placed about an inch or so above the lower sash, and with the pin positioned properly, you can only move the window until it hits the pin.
To open the window all the way, re-position the pin.
______________________________
Take the Driver's Reaction Time Test
This simulates you in the driver's seat of a car.
You're driving down a road, when you see a big red hand flash in front of you.
You have to put on the brakes.
Then the Reaction Time Test tells you how old you are, when it comes to driving.
The test is based on reaction times of 2,000 people ages 18 and over.
The Reaction Time Test plotted their reaction times by age; it matches your reaction time to those averages.
Some of their results may surprise you.
The Reaction Time Test found that left-handed people and men have slightly better reaction times than the average person
_________________________
Hiring an Unlicensed Contractor?
It's Trouble
&
You Should be Ashamed of Yourself
So you want to save a few bucks and hire a some "Tom Dick or Harry" to do work for you without doing some simple homework?
You're not only asking for trouble, but...
You should be ashamed of yourself !
You are not only assisting others in breaking the law, but endangering the well-being of those around you as well.
Just what is the law?
Perhaps the most flagrant violators are landscapers.
They are everywhere and are seen daily as they cruise our neighborhoods.
Though a number of them are properly licensed and insured...for your protection...
...others take advantage of those who do take the time to follow the law.
And....if injury should occur while they are working...
YOUR CONTRACTING AN ILLEGAL FIRM WITHOUT PROPER INSURANCE can make YOU PERSONALLY RESPONSIBLE for any medical bills AND civil litigation that may result.
Though landscapers are the most evident, unlicensed and uninsured home construction firms are by far the worst of the bunch.
Referrals are the lifeblood of their business success and those who do take pride in their operations, should proudly display their business licence number on their company vehicles.
But...it that enough?
Absolutely NOT.
Before you contract any individual or firm for ANY project, ask to see a copy of both their current business license AND liability insurance.
Then...write down the numbers and verify the information with the Nevada State Contractors Board.
It easy, and SMART !
Either stop by the Nevada Contractors Board or call them.
They are open Monday thru Friday, from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
Nevada Contractors Board
2310 Corporate Circle Suite 200
Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 486-1100
or...
Just click on this site and you can easily verify if that individual or firm is properly licensed.
This site has a wealth of information including instructions on how to file a complaint...IF...the party is LICENSED.
In addition, you should also know that hiring a licensed contractor means the Nevada Contractors Board may assist you in some form of recovery through the:
"Residential Recovery Fund"
Without having a proper business license, you are on your own as to private civil litigation costs...
...that is ...
...if you can find the individual or firm !
Over the past couple of years there have been a number of "sting" operations against these individuals....and we thank Channel 13 for reporting these issues.
Watch these video reports:
...in order that you can "keep your eyes open" to those who refuse to follow the law.
Remember...not doing so, not only can harm YOU, but your neighbors as well.
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
Have you had a problem with an unlicensed or uninsured contractor?
Do you know of any unlicensed firms...especially landscapers...who solicit business without a proper business license or insurance?
Let us know...we'll make sure the community knows who they are !
Send your comments and information to:
Window Locks
Many times the best foundation for good window security isn't the alarms, electronics, or other high-tech doodads that people get now.
Rather it is the locks and other items that are used to seal the window shut.
While there are many different kinds that you can have, it often depends on the type of window that you have in your home. Here is some basic information about the various types of window security you could have.
Bolt Lock
A bolt lock is very similar to what you will find on many doors. The reason for that is due to the fact that you often need to have a key to operate them.
These types of window locks are usually only found on sliding casement windows.
Use a Screw
A very simple way of preventing your window from opening too far is to use a screw.
Just drive a screw into the window sill a few inches away from the pane of glass and it will stop the window from going any further.
Specialized Locks
There are some specialized locks that some companies make for sliding windows. These are usually very similar in nature though, and simply slip over the window track.
Turn a lever on the lock, and the window will not move.
If you set the lock far enough back before you turn the lock, you can still open your window slightly.
Key Track Stop
A key track stop is a very simple device that can be placed anywhere along a window track.
Turn the key until it won't move anymore and you have created an item that will stop your window from moving.
Locking Pins
Most commonly found on double hung windows, a locking pin is a rather simple security device. It goes through one window sash into the other, and prevents anyone from lifting the sash.
Turnbuckle
A turnbuckle, particularly a keyed one, is very similar to the bolt lock for sliding casement windows. To open the window, you simply use a key to unlock the turnbuckle, and then you can lift the window open.
Ventilating Locks
These types of locks screw into the side of the top sash of a window.
When placed about an inch or so above the lower sash, and with the pin positioned properly, you can only move the window until it hits the pin.
To open the window all the way, re-position the pin.
______________________________
Take the Driver's Reaction Time Test
This simulates you in the driver's seat of a car.
You're driving down a road, when you see a big red hand flash in front of you.
You have to put on the brakes.
Then the Reaction Time Test tells you how old you are, when it comes to driving.
The test is based on reaction times of 2,000 people ages 18 and over.
The Reaction Time Test plotted their reaction times by age; it matches your reaction time to those averages.
Some of their results may surprise you.
The Reaction Time Test found that left-handed people and men have slightly better reaction times than the average person
_________________________
Hiring an Unlicensed Contractor?
It's Trouble
&
You Should be Ashamed of Yourself
So you want to save a few bucks and hire a some "Tom Dick or Harry" to do work for you without doing some simple homework?
You're not only asking for trouble, but...
You should be ashamed of yourself !
You are not only assisting others in breaking the law, but endangering the well-being of those around you as well.
Just what is the law?
Perhaps the most flagrant violators are landscapers.
They are everywhere and are seen daily as they cruise our neighborhoods.
Though a number of them are properly licensed and insured...for your protection...
...others take advantage of those who do take the time to follow the law.
And....if injury should occur while they are working...
YOUR CONTRACTING AN ILLEGAL FIRM WITHOUT PROPER INSURANCE can make YOU PERSONALLY RESPONSIBLE for any medical bills AND civil litigation that may result.
Though landscapers are the most evident, unlicensed and uninsured home construction firms are by far the worst of the bunch.
Referrals are the lifeblood of their business success and those who do take pride in their operations, should proudly display their business licence number on their company vehicles.
But...it that enough?
Absolutely NOT.
Before you contract any individual or firm for ANY project, ask to see a copy of both their current business license AND liability insurance.
Then...write down the numbers and verify the information with the Nevada State Contractors Board.
It easy, and SMART !
Either stop by the Nevada Contractors Board or call them.
They are open Monday thru Friday, from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
Nevada Contractors Board
2310 Corporate Circle Suite 200
Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 486-1100
or...
Just click on this site and you can easily verify if that individual or firm is properly licensed.
This site has a wealth of information including instructions on how to file a complaint...IF...the party is LICENSED.
In addition, you should also know that hiring a licensed contractor means the Nevada Contractors Board may assist you in some form of recovery through the:
"Residential Recovery Fund"
Without having a proper business license, you are on your own as to private civil litigation costs...
...that is ...
...if you can find the individual or firm !
Over the past couple of years there have been a number of "sting" operations against these individuals....and we thank Channel 13 for reporting these issues.
Watch these video reports:
Watch these video reports:
...in order that you can "keep your eyes open" to those who refuse to follow the law.
Remember...not doing so, not only can harm YOU, but your neighbors as well.
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
Have you had a problem with an unlicensed or uninsured contractor?
Do you know of any unlicensed firms...especially landscapers...who solicit business without a proper business license or insurance?
Let us know...we'll make sure the community knows who they are !
Send your comments and information to:
A Fire Safety Check List
It is somewhat surprising that most people only think about fire alarms when it comes to fire safety.
If you are interested in keeping your home safe from fire, all you need to do is follow a few simple guidelines. It's really not all that hard, though it does take a bit of effort on your part.
Here are some of the basic guidelines that you can begin implementing today, and thereby create a much safer home environment for you and your family.
Limit electrical use
One of the leading causes of fires in the home is overloading the electrical outlets in the home.
Limit the number of electrical items that you use from a single outlet.
If you do end up needing to use a power strip of some sort, make sure that it is one of those that have a built in circuit breaker or surge protector.
That way if there is some kind electrical problem, you can limit or reduce the chances of a fire.
Check your cords
Periodically check the cords of all your electrical items to ensure that they are in good working condition.
Frayed or damaged electrical cords can often spark, over heat, or both. If that happens, you can run the risk of having a fire start.
Be cautious if you smoke
If you smoke, limit your smoking to the outdoors and properly dispose of any remains.
For those that do smoke inside, never smoke while in bed, and never sleep with a light cigarette or cigar.
Ensure that you empty your ashtrays regularly, and that all embers are out before you dispose of them.
Develop an escape plan, and practice
Have you ever noticed that hotels, and other similar establishments, all have a fire escape plan listed in their rooms?
You should take the time to develop something similar for you and your family.
This plan should also include a meeting place that you will all gather at once you are outside.
With the plan developed you and your family should practice it a few times, so that everyone knows what to do in case of emergency.
Get some detectors & change the batteries
Get good, high quality smoke detectors for your home.
The best ones that you can get don't just detect smoke, but also carbon monoxide.
Install them in high traffic areas (such as hallways and stairways), but also in every room of the home.
Fire extinguishers are a must
Every home should have at least two fire extinguishers, one of which is kept in the kitchen.
In the event of a smaller fire, or if you can catch the fire early enough, a fire extinguisher can help ensure that you either stop the fire, or are able to get out of the home safely.
Check Regularly
On a Regular basis check your fire extinguishers and detectors to see that they are in good working order.
On the average, you should test your detectors monthly to ensure that the batteries are in good working condition, and your extinguishers should be re-certified every year.
These are only a few of the available methods for keeping your home safe from fire.
One way that you can definitely ensure that your home is as fire safe as possible is to have it inspected by your local fire departments.
They can point out any additional locations that need to be brought up to snuff, and give you much more personalized advice for your particular home.
We have some helpful videos for you.
_____________________________
Simple
Home Safety Tips
It can be extremely confusing for most people to try and determine what types of safety equipment they need to have in their home.
There are always differences in what people consider to be home safety necessities; however, there are a few things that always seem to appear on each and every list.
These items are the true home safety necessities.
Here are a few simple items that everyone should have in their home to help make it as safe as possible.
Exterior doors
There are a few things that everyone should have when it comes to their door.
First, your door should be one of those solid core or metal doors.
The reason for this is that these kinds of doors are more secure, and harder to break down than other kinds.
Second, you should always have and use deadbolts on your door.
Finally, you should also have something called a door stop alarm.
A door stop alarm is something that you place against the door that will make a loud noise when the door is opened.
Windows
Every single window in your home needs to have a lock on it, and further more they need to be used.
Another great thing that you should get on your windows are things called "self-tapping" screws which you can place in your windows and keep them from being opened from the outside.
One way that you can keep your home a little safer from thieves (and help cool things off in your home at the same time, is through the use of tinted film.
Place this on your windows, and it will be more difficult for people to look into your windows and see what you have in the home.
Bathroom
Have grandchildren who visit? This one's for you.
Bathrooms can be particularly dangerous for small children. Do not leave small children unattended in the bathroom.
Toddlers are small, and can easily drown in the water left in the bottom of the bathtub, or in the toilet.
Also, always make sure that you do not leave anything plugged in where children can reach them.
Kitchen
Here's another one for visiting grandchildren.
Remember when your kids were tiny tots? Some things never change when you're a grand parent and they come for a visit.
If you have toddlers in the home, then you know exactly how much they like to grab things.
In your kitchen, you should put latches on every single item that opens.
This will help prevent the toddler from opening something that they shouldn't (like the oven).
Also, it would be a good idea to put knob protectors on your oven knobs, to ensure they are not turned on accidentally.
General
Every home should also have at least one fire extinguisher and first aid kit. You never know when you might get hurt, or a fire could start.
Another great thing to have around the home to help make it a little safer from thieves is a dog.
Typically speaking, burglars are less likely to break into a home where a dog lives.
We have some videos with a few additional reminders !
_____________________________
Monsoon Season
What is It?
&
Its Dangers
Those of us who have been here a while have experienced it, and for those of you new to the Las Vegas area, get ready, it "officially" started on July 1st and goes all the way to September.
It's no joke, and it's a time of the year that should be taken very seriously.
Why?
...because it can be dangerous, scary, and possibly fatal, especially if you happen to be driving during one.
Before you know it...lightning strikes, high winds appear, the dust blows, and suddenly the rain pours as if the Pacific Ocean was emptying.
Visibility is severely hampered, and suddenly flash flooding can take you and your car "on a ride" that can lead to death !
For those of you driving through what might appear as a "puddle", that can be most deceiving during a monsoon rain.
Never...and I stress...never....drive through a hilly area that is covered with water.
That area may look safe, but most people are unaware that a car traveling through only one foot of water, can be lifted, sending you to a drowning death in a flash flood.
This person tried it in 1999...
What exactly is a Las Vegas "monsoon"?
Starting in late May or early June, the sun warms up the deserts in northwestern Mexico and the southwestern United States.
The air gets so hot and excited that it can’t wait to go share its energy with the cold upper atmosphere. This rising air lowers the air pressure above the desert, creating a bit of a vacuum, especially compared with the colder air over the ocean.
Because nature always balances its forces, the cold high-pressure air from the ocean wants to blow into the desert.
When it comes, it brings water with it.
At the same time all of this is going on, a ridge of high-pressure air sets up shop in Mexico.
In June, this ridge mostly blocks moisture from flowing north from the Gulf of California and Gulf of Mexico.
By mid-July, however, this ridge migrates north into the United States, where it hovers around New Mexico and the four corners area.
The farther north it gets, the more it allows moist air out of the gulfs into Southern Nevada.
The result...
..even in the desert !
Now, when that air of the gulfs is especially moist, it’ll bump up against our mountains and condense into thunderheads.
In the late afternoon or early evening, the now-saturated clouds burst...
...and lightning, sudden downpours, howling winds and sometimes hail occur.
And that's why...
...should be taken very seriously !
__________________________
This has to be one of the best safety ideas, and our thanks goes to Sun City Anthem's retired Chicago Detective John Schmidt !
A Fire Safety Check List
It is somewhat surprising that most people only think about fire alarms when it comes to fire safety.
If you are interested in keeping your home safe from fire, all you need to do is follow a few simple guidelines. It's really not all that hard, though it does take a bit of effort on your part.
Here are some of the basic guidelines that you can begin implementing today, and thereby create a much safer home environment for you and your family.
Limit electrical use
One of the leading causes of fires in the home is overloading the electrical outlets in the home.
Limit the number of electrical items that you use from a single outlet.
If you do end up needing to use a power strip of some sort, make sure that it is one of those that have a built in circuit breaker or surge protector.
That way if there is some kind electrical problem, you can limit or reduce the chances of a fire.
Check your cords
Periodically check the cords of all your electrical items to ensure that they are in good working condition.
Frayed or damaged electrical cords can often spark, over heat, or both. If that happens, you can run the risk of having a fire start.
Be cautious if you smoke
If you smoke, limit your smoking to the outdoors and properly dispose of any remains.
For those that do smoke inside, never smoke while in bed, and never sleep with a light cigarette or cigar.
Ensure that you empty your ashtrays regularly, and that all embers are out before you dispose of them.
Develop an escape plan, and practice
Have you ever noticed that hotels, and other similar establishments, all have a fire escape plan listed in their rooms?
You should take the time to develop something similar for you and your family.
This plan should also include a meeting place that you will all gather at once you are outside.
With the plan developed you and your family should practice it a few times, so that everyone knows what to do in case of emergency.
Get some detectors & change the batteries
Get good, high quality smoke detectors for your home.
The best ones that you can get don't just detect smoke, but also carbon monoxide.
Install them in high traffic areas (such as hallways and stairways), but also in every room of the home.
Fire extinguishers are a must
Every home should have at least two fire extinguishers, one of which is kept in the kitchen.
In the event of a smaller fire, or if you can catch the fire early enough, a fire extinguisher can help ensure that you either stop the fire, or are able to get out of the home safely.
Check Regularly
On a Regular basis check your fire extinguishers and detectors to see that they are in good working order.
On the average, you should test your detectors monthly to ensure that the batteries are in good working condition, and your extinguishers should be re-certified every year.
These are only a few of the available methods for keeping your home safe from fire.
One way that you can definitely ensure that your home is as fire safe as possible is to have it inspected by your local fire departments.
They can point out any additional locations that need to be brought up to snuff, and give you much more personalized advice for your particular home.
We have some helpful videos for you.
_____________________________
It can be extremely confusing for most people to try and determine what types of safety equipment they need to have in their home.
These items are the true home safety necessities.
What is It?
Why?
Visibility is severely hampered, and suddenly flash flooding can take you and your car "on a ride" that can lead to death !
That area may look safe, but most people are unaware that a car traveling through only one foot of water, can be lifted, sending you to a drowning death in a flash flood.
This has to be one of the best safety ideas, and our thanks goes to Sun City Anthem's retired Chicago Detective John Schmidt !
Put your car keys beside your bed at night !
Put your car keys beside your bed at night!
If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get in your house, just press the panic button for your car.
The alarm will be set off, and the horn will continue to sound until either you turn it off or the car battery dies.
Next time you come home for the night and you start to put your keys away, think of this: It's a security alarm system that you probably already have and requires no installation.
Test it.
It will go off from most everywhere inside your house and will keep honking until your battery runs down or until you reset it with the button on the key fob chain.
It works if you park in your driveway or garage.
If your car alarm goes off when someone is trying to break into your house, odds are the burglar/rapist won't stick around.
After a few seconds,all the neighbors will be looking out their windows to see who is out there and sure enough the criminal won't want that.
And... remember to carry your keys while walking to your car in a parking lot.
The alarm can work the same way there.
___________________________
Put your car keys beside your bed at night!
If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get in your house, just press the panic button for your car.
If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get in your house, just press the panic button for your car.
The alarm will be set off, and the horn will continue to sound until either you turn it off or the car battery dies.
Next time you come home for the night and you start to put your keys away, think of this: It's a security alarm system that you probably already have and requires no installation.
Test it.
It will go off from most everywhere inside your house and will keep honking until your battery runs down or until you reset it with the button on the key fob chain.
It works if you park in your driveway or garage.
If your car alarm goes off when someone is trying to break into your house, odds are the burglar/rapist won't stick around.
After a few seconds,all the neighbors will be looking out their windows to see who is out there and sure enough the criminal won't want that.
And... remember to carry your keys while walking to your car in a parking lot.
The alarm can work the same way there.
___________________________
Home Electrical Safety Inspections Can Save Your Life
It is always a good idea to periodically inspect your home to make sure that it is safe.
This includes checking to make sure that the electrical system in your home is OK as well.
While you may not be able to do a complete electrical system check, you can do a home electric safety inspection that will allow you to know if a professional should take a closer look.
While only a professional can really say whether the electrical system in your home is safe or not, there are a few things that you can do to see whether you need a professional to come in and do a full blown inspection.
A home electrical safety can be done in a relatively short period of time, and give you a good idea of what other steps should be taken.
Here are a few things that you should keep an eye out for when you begin your inspection.
Check the cover plates.
Go through your home and take a look at all the electrical outlets.
Each should have a cover plate, and should not be cracked.
In fact, take a close look at the receptacles themselves to ensure that they are not cracked either.
If you find any that are, replace them as soon as possible.
Check your grounding.
When looking at the receptacles take a look to see if they are grounded.
As a general rule, plugs that have only two prong slots are not grounded and should be upgraded as soon as possible.
To check for proper polarization and grounding of three prong plugs, use a receptacle analyzer.
Test your switches.
Flip the switches a few times, and check to see how much play there is.
If it seems like there is too much, or if the switch wiggles when you move it back and forth, then you should have it replaced.
Another good indicator that you need to replace a switch is if you happen to hear a "pop" when you turn it on or off.
Test any GFCIs that you may have.
Just because you have a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) doesn't mean that you don't need to check them.
Check them for proper grounding and polarization as you would with any other three prong plug, as well as by pushing the red test button.
When you push the red button, the black reset button should pop out.
If it doesn't, you need to replace it.
Double check receptacles near water.
It is pretty much common sense that a wet receptacle is a dangerous one.
Despite this, many times those receptacles that are within arms reach of a water source are often overlooked.
Check to make sure that you have a GFCI installed at any receptacle that is near a water source.
Be aware that the codes of some states differ, and you should check with a professional before making any serious changes to your home electrical system.
If you have any doubts at all, then call in a professional to do the work for you.
____________________________
Armed Gunmen Attempt Robbery
in
Green Valley Ranch Parking Garage
On Sunday, April 22, 2018, at about 8:40 p.m., Henderson Police responded to a report of an attempted armed robbery that occurred in a parking garage in the Green Valley Ranch garage on the 2300 block of Paseo Verde Pkwy.
An investigation initiated by Henderson Police determined that two suspects had followed the victim as he exited the business and was walking to his car.
One of the suspects brandished a firearm and demanded money from the victim.
The victim screamed and fled.
The suspect holding the gun was described as a light skinned black male adult approximately 18 to 20 years old, standing five feet eight inches to five feet ten inches tall, weighing approximately 150 to 160 pounds wearing a royal blue hooded sweatshirt, light colored shorts, black socks and white shoes.
The other suspect was described as unknown race male approximately 18 to 20 years old, standing five feet nine inches to five feet ten inches tall, weighing approximately 150 to 160 pounds wearing a light colored hooded sweatshirt with light colored pants and white shoes.
The suspects fled the scene by jumping into a waiting vehicle where a third unidentified suspect was driving.
Police are looking for the suspect vehicle described as an unregistered newer model Dodge Challenger with a red strip down the middle.
Please see the attached Youtube link for the video:
Anyone who locates this vehicle should not approach it or disturb it as the suspects are considered armed and dangerous, but call police immediately.
Anyone with information in this case is urged to call the Henderson Police Department at (702) 267-4911, 3-1-1, or, to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit Crime Stoppers website.
Tips directly leading to a felony arrest or an indictment processed through Crime Stoppers may result in a cash reward.
_____________________________
Beware of New Medicare Card Telephone Scam
The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) was scheduled to begin sending new cards to Medicare recipients in April 2018, prompting telephone phishing scams, and viral social media alerts, in February 2018.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid are not calling senior citizens and asking for personal information ahead of the launch of a new Medicare card.
Medicare has also warned on scams.
They do not charge for cards or want your personal information over the phone.
Here's how the scam works:
Somebody from “MEDICARE ” will call to tell you-you are getting a new Medicare card.
But... until it comes you will need a temporary card.
Fee for the card is between $5-50.
They want personal information, bank account, or credit card so they can process your temporary card.
Medicare will never call you uninvited and ask you to give us personal or private information to get your new Medicare Number and card.
Scam artists may try to get personal information (like your current Medicare Number) by contacting you about your new card.
If someone asks you for your information, for money, or threatens to cancel your health benefits if you don’t share your personal information, hang up and call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) has a Fraud Watch Network, specifically dedicated to recording and combating instances of scams that target the elderly and senior citizens.
AARP has indicated that the network’s telephone helpline had so far received a “handful of calls about attempted scams involving the new Medicare card.”
ThoughThe Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will begin sending out new Medicare cards in April 2018, distributing them across the country over 12 months, Nevada residents are scheduled to receive cards after June, 2018.
Most notably, the new cards will no longer feature Social Security numbers, but rather a new identifier called a Medicare Beneficiary Identifier.
The move was required by the 2015 Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act, and intended as a “fraud prevention initiative” that will “help combat identity theft.”
Medicare recipients are not required to take any action, other than making sure the agency has the correct mailing address on file.
__________________________
We wish to thank retired Chicago Detective, John Schmidt, for sending this valuable information to us in order that we may share it with you, our readers.
Sun City Anthem Resident
Warns of Another Credit Card Scam
This is a heads up for everyone regarding the latest in credit card fraud.
This is happening in the Midwest right now and moving across the country.
This one is pretty slick, since they provide YOU with all the information, except the one piece they want.
Note, the callers do not ask for your card number; they already have it.
This information is worth reading.
By understanding how the VISA & MasterCard telephone Credit Card Scam works, you'll be better prepared to protect yourself.
The scam works like this:
Person calling says:
"This is (name) and I'm calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. My Badge number is xxxx)"
(a fictitious number is used)
"Your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and I'm calling to verify. This would be on your VISA card which was issued by (name of bank).
Did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for $497.99 from a marketing company based in Arizona ?"
When you say "No", the caller continues with:
"Then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company we have been watching, and the charges range from $297 to $497, just under the $500 purchase pattern that flags most cards.
Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (gives you your address). Is that correct?"
You say "yes".
The caller continues...
"I will be starting a Fraud Investigation. If you have any questions, you should call the 1- 800 number listed on the back of your card (1-800-VISA) and ask for Security. You will need to refer to this Control Number."
The caller then gives you a 6 digit number, and then asks:
"Do you need me to read it again?"
Here's the IMPORTANT part on how the scam works.
The caller then says:
'I need to verify you are in possession of your card'.
The individual will then ask you this:
"Turn your card over and look for some numbers. There are 7 numbers; the first 4 are part of your card number, the last 3 are the Security Numbers that verify you are the possessor of the card. These are the numbers you sometimes use to make Internet purchases to prove you have the card."
The caller will ask you to read the last 3 numbers to him.
After you tell the caller the 3 numbers, the person wlll say:
"That is correct, I just needed to verify that the card has not been lost or stolen, and that you still have your card. Do you have any other questions?"
After you say no, the caller then thanks you and states:
"Don't hesitate to call back if you do"
...and hangs up.
You actually say very little, and they never ask for or tell you the card number.
Within moments, a substantial purchase will them be made on your account.
What the scammer wants is the 3-digit PIN number on the back of the card.
Don't give it to them.
Instead, tell them you'll call VISA or Master Card directly for verification of their conversation.
The real VISA will never ask for anything on the card, as they already know the information, since they issued the card!
If you give the Scammer your 3 Digit PIN Number, you think you're receiving a credit.
However, by the time you get your statement you'll see charges for purchases you didn't make, and by then it's almost too late and/or more difficult to actually file a fraud report.
If you get such a call...hang up!
File a police report, as instructed by VISA.
If you have caller ID, make note of the telephone number in filing the report.
_____________________________
Be warned, there is a group going to homes and pretending to be officials from home affairs.
They have documents with the letterhead Department of Home Affairs and claim to be confirming that everyone has a valid ID for the upcoming elections.
They are robbing homes.
Take note there is no initiative like that from the government.
They are everywhere and they look presentable.
___________________________
________________________________
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid are not calling senior citizens and asking for personal information ahead of the launch of a new Medicare card.
Medicare has also warned on scams.
They do not charge for cards or want your personal information over the phone.
Here's how the scam works:
Somebody from “MEDICARE ” will call to tell you-you are getting a new Medicare card.
But... until it comes you will need a temporary card.
Fee for the card is between $5-50.
They want personal information, bank account, or credit card so they can process your temporary card.
Medicare will never call you uninvited and ask you to give us personal or private information to get your new Medicare Number and card.
Scam artists may try to get personal information (like your current Medicare Number) by contacting you about your new card.
If someone asks you for your information, for money, or threatens to cancel your health benefits if you don’t share your personal information, hang up and call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) has a Fraud Watch Network, specifically dedicated to recording and combating instances of scams that target the elderly and senior citizens.
AARP has indicated that the network’s telephone helpline had so far received a “handful of calls about attempted scams involving the new Medicare card.”
ThoughThe Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will begin sending out new Medicare cards in April 2018, distributing them across the country over 12 months, Nevada residents are scheduled to receive cards after June, 2018.
Most notably, the new cards will no longer feature Social Security numbers, but rather a new identifier called a Medicare Beneficiary Identifier.
The move was required by the 2015 Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act, and intended as a “fraud prevention initiative” that will “help combat identity theft.”
Medicare recipients are not required to take any action, other than making sure the agency has the correct mailing address on file.
__________________________
We wish to thank retired Chicago Detective, John Schmidt, for sending this valuable information to us in order that we may share it with you, our readers.
Sun City Anthem Resident
Warns of Another Credit Card Scam
This is a heads up for everyone regarding the latest in credit card fraud.
This is happening in the Midwest right now and moving across the country.
This one is pretty slick, since they provide YOU with all the information, except the one piece they want.
Note, the callers do not ask for your card number; they already have it.
This information is worth reading.
By understanding how the VISA & MasterCard telephone Credit Card Scam works, you'll be better prepared to protect yourself.
The scam works like this:
Person calling says:
"This is (name) and I'm calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. My Badge number is xxxx)"
(a fictitious number is used)
"Your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and I'm calling to verify. This would be on your VISA card which was issued by (name of bank).
Did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for $497.99 from a marketing company based in Arizona ?"
When you say "No", the caller continues with:
"Then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company we have been watching, and the charges range from $297 to $497, just under the $500 purchase pattern that flags most cards.
Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (gives you your address). Is that correct?"
You say "yes".
The caller continues...
"I will be starting a Fraud Investigation. If you have any questions, you should call the 1- 800 number listed on the back of your card (1-800-VISA) and ask for Security. You will need to refer to this Control Number."
The caller then gives you a 6 digit number, and then asks:
"Do you need me to read it again?"
Here's the IMPORTANT part on how the scam works.
The caller then says:
'I need to verify you are in possession of your card'.
The individual will then ask you this:
"Turn your card over and look for some numbers. There are 7 numbers; the first 4 are part of your card number, the last 3 are the Security Numbers that verify you are the possessor of the card. These are the numbers you sometimes use to make Internet purchases to prove you have the card."
The caller will ask you to read the last 3 numbers to him.
After you tell the caller the 3 numbers, the person wlll say:
"That is correct, I just needed to verify that the card has not been lost or stolen, and that you still have your card. Do you have any other questions?"
After you say no, the caller then thanks you and states:
"Don't hesitate to call back if you do"
...and hangs up.
You actually say very little, and they never ask for or tell you the card number.
Within moments, a substantial purchase will them be made on your account.
What the scammer wants is the 3-digit PIN number on the back of the card.
Don't give it to them.
Instead, tell them you'll call VISA or Master Card directly for verification of their conversation.
The real VISA will never ask for anything on the card, as they already know the information, since they issued the card!
If you give the Scammer your 3 Digit PIN Number, you think you're receiving a credit.
However, by the time you get your statement you'll see charges for purchases you didn't make, and by then it's almost too late and/or more difficult to actually file a fraud report.
If you get such a call...hang up!
File a police report, as instructed by VISA.
If you have caller ID, make note of the telephone number in filing the report.
_____________________________
Be warned, there is a group going to homes and pretending to be officials from home affairs.
They have documents with the letterhead Department of Home Affairs and claim to be confirming that everyone has a valid ID for the upcoming elections.
They are robbing homes.
Take note there is no initiative like that from the government.
They are everywhere and they look presentable.
___________________________
________________________________
How to Detect a Hidden Camera in a Room
When you stay in a hotel, how do you know there is no room secret pinhole camera?
When you travel to an unfamiliar destination or take a business trip, you stay at a hotel, but what you do not know is that you could unknowingly be photographed or be secretly recorded.
In this age of smart recording devices and pinhole sized drones, always remember when staying in a hotel, that you can use this method to check your room :
1. When you have entered into your room, turn off the lights, and close the curtains, open your phone camera, do not turn the flash light on.
2. Turn around the room with your cell phone.
When a red dot is found on your screen, that means that a hidden web camera is installed.
__________________________
When you stay in a hotel, how do you know there is no room secret pinhole camera?
When you travel to an unfamiliar destination or take a business trip, you stay at a hotel, but what you do not know is that you could unknowingly be photographed or be secretly recorded.
In this age of smart recording devices and pinhole sized drones, always remember when staying in a hotel, that you can use this method to check your room :
1. When you have entered into your room, turn off the lights, and close the curtains, open your phone camera, do not turn the flash light on.
2. Turn around the room with your cell phone.
When a red dot is found on your screen, that means that a hidden web camera is installed.
Henderson Police Department Reminds Residents About Phone Solicitations
From The Henderson Police Department:
Arrest Warrant Scam Alert
Due to some recent reports here in Henderson, as a reminder, if you receive a phone call or email from someone claiming to be a police officer, a lawyer or bounty hunter, saying they have a warrant for your arrest, verify who you're speaking with.
The callers, manipulating caller ID to make the number appear to come from the local police station or jail, tell potential victims they have an outstanding warrant for an unpaid debt, missed jury duty or some minor infraction and that a fine is due.
The callers then convince people to make the payments by wiring it through Western Union MoneyGram, buying a prepaid credit card (like Green Dot) and even asking for iTunes gift cards!
(This is the first clue it’s a scam)
Criminals may have your phone number, place of employment and other personal information that makes them seem more legitimate.
Henderson Police are warning citizens to be on the alert for scam artists posing as police.
There are variations of this scam in which the caller tells the victim that there are outstanding warrants for the victim's arrest. The caller will then demand payment via debit/credit card; in other cases, the caller further instructs victims to obtain a prepaid card to cover the payment.
Look for these signs that a caller may be a fake arrest warrant / fake debt collector if they:
1. Claim that there is a warrant for your arrest.
Police do not call first. If you really are in trouble with the law, you will know it.
The police will knock on your door or you will receive a certified piece of mail informing you of any legal action that's being taken against you.
If you do owe a fine, you will not get a 15-minute notice to pay it over the phone.
2. Seek payment on a debt for a loan you do not recognize.
3. Refuse to give you a mailing address or phone number.
4. Ask you for personal financial or sensitive information.
5. Exert high pressure to try to scare you into paying, such as threatening to have you arrested or to report you to a law enforcement agency.
What to do:
If you are contacted by someone who is claims there is a warrant for your arrest or is claiming to collect a debt that you do not owe, you should:
1. Ask the caller for his name, company, street address, and telephone number.
2. Tell the caller that you refuse to discuss any debt until you get a written "validation notice."
3. Contact your local law enforcement agencies if you feel you are in immediate danger.
4. Contact the major credit bureaus and request an alert be put on your file.
5. File a complaint with the police and the FBI at:
Unless you know who you’re dealing with, never give out or confirm personal financial or other sensitive information like your:
name
date of birth
bank account
credit card
Social Security number
_________________________________
Carbon Monoxide
A Silent Killer
How to Keep Your Home Safe
Keeping your home free from carbon monoxide isn't all that difficult, though it does take a few extra steps more than simply keeping your home safe from a fire.
While many of the same procedures and steps that you use to protect a home from fire will work with carbon monoxide, the truth of the matter is you can actually use carbon monoxide as an early warning system for a fire.
Here are a few ideas that you can use to get started.
1. Get a detector.
One of the best and most traditional methods, for keeping your home free from carbon monoxide is to get a detector.
Before you go and get a regular fire detector, you will want to make sure that you are purchasing a detector that will also detect carbon monoxide.
While you don't have to get a detector that works for both fire, and carbon monoxide, it is a good idea to do so since it will be easier to maintain one alarm rather than two.
2. Check all sources.
There are several items within a home that can generate carbon monoxide, and as such need to be checked and maintained regularly.
These items are appliances such as the furnace, your gas water heater, a fireplace (both gas and wood if you have one), your stove and oven (if it is gas operated), and so on.
Basically anything that involves some sort of combustion process (something burning in some way) needs to be checked to ensure it is operating the way that it should.
3. Use common sense.
The simplest way to keep carbon monoxide from your home is to simply use a bit of common sense. This means that you need to not do some things that, while it may "sound like a good idea" are anything but !
For example:
Do not heat your home using a gas stove.
Always ensure that you have a properly ventilated range hood on your stove.
Never use a charcoal grill inside.
Never start your car or vehicle in the garage without the exterior door being opened first.
When you start utilizing these ideas, you should have a fairly safe home from both fire and carbon monoxide.
That being said, it never hurts to get a professional's opinion.
Often times you can contact your local fire department, and have them come out and do a safety inspection.
It may cost a little bit of money to do this, but the peace of mind that you get from knowing that your home is certified safe from the fire department is pretty priceless.
We have some helpful videos.
__________________________
Las Vegas Strip Busy Installing Steel Posts
to
Avoid Further Terror Attacks
Safety note…work has started on the installation of 700 steel posts between streets and sidewalks along the Las Vegas Strip.
The bollards are designed to protect pedestrians from vehicles and will be strong enough to stop a flatbed truck traveling at 55 mph.
-
From Mary Ann Owen...to...Anthem Opinions
Hi,
In view of all the terror attacks in America & most recent in Las Vegas I am very concerned about our centers.
Our centers would be considered a very soft target , anyone can walk in at any time , a senior at a desk will not stop them !
Why don't they change the access at the front entrance using a ID Scanner card to open the doors & install Cameras front back & on the side?
Cameras inside at the front desks so it is visible who is entering the facility !
I am a retired corrections officer, so I know about security.
_____________________
Some advice avoiding that encounter !
Getting to Know Your Burglar
(Part Two of Two)
Find Your Weak Spots
First thing’s first. Before adding extra fortification, alarms, and the like, you should evaluate your home’s current security, looking for easy points of entry.
First, take a look at your house or apartment and look for the opportunities that, if you had locked yourself out, and had to get into your home, you could.If you can get in, so can a burglar. That's an area you want to fortify.
Second, there are a number of crime prevention units who will come out and do a safety and security assessment for you. Don't be afraid to contact your local police department. Once you’ve evaluated, it’s time to take action.
Lock it Up
Rather than break down side doors, burglars tend to walk in through unlocked front doors or first-floor windows.Some estimates vary, but it appears about 60% of burglaries happen that way.
The solution? Easy. Use your locks. You know you have them, so use them !
It seems like common sense, but there are still so many people who don't do that, especially locking the door between your garage and your home.
If you want to go beyond simple locks, reinforce the front door.
Strike plates are inadequate.
Reinforce your door so you can’t kick it open.
Reinforce the doorjamb with a heavy-duty, multi-screw strike plate and three-inch screws."
Consider Your Shrubbery
Burglars tend to target homes where it’s easier for them to remain unseen.
Landscaping with large trees or bushes can conceal points of entry like windows and doors, as well as camouflage the thieves themselves. To prevent this, prune plant life prudently.
Worried about bare, uninteresting lawns (if you have a lawn)?
Don’t panic.
If you don't have high bushes, but you do worry about someone trying to break into your window, think about thorny plants or small bushes near your windows—a small rosebush or a boxwood that's prickly, so your landscaping can also help you deter burglars.
Look for Lighting Opportunities
A well-lit outdoor area is another way to dissuade thieves.
If you tend to get home late, or you’re not home at night, motion lights are a good idea.
Any door into your home that has an outside light, replace that light with a motion infrared sensor light, and they’ll work automatically.
Have them so they reset automatically after 30 seconds.
To go the extra mile, consider installing indoor lights with timers, as well.
You can make it look like someone's home and moving around the house … by having the light go on in the bedroom, and the light in the kitchen 10 minutes later.
Sound the Alarm
Security systems are effective. Burglars look for those signs of increased security.
Sometimes that can be enough of a deterrent for them to go to another household.
Recent technological advances mean you can even control certain systems from your smart phone.
Things like that make it less expensive than a traditional alarm system, and give you more flexibility."
Of course, if you don’t want to spring for the whole kit and caboodle, a simple sticker might do. The lawn sign and window decals advertising the existence of an alarm system is what deters many burglars.
While You're Away
It’s no secret that burglars look for vacant homes, which means yours becomes an appealing target when you’re away for any length of time.
The key is to make it look like the home is not unoccupied.
While you’re vacationing, take care to have the little details accounted for, like:
Newspapers, mail, and junk collecting at your door.
If you have your porch light on 24 hours a day, often times it means that you’re gone.
Finally, don’t broadcast your vacation plans beyond your immediate circle, especially on social media outlets like Facebook.
Like a Good Neighbor
Whether you’re on vacation or just away for the night, the best barriers to burglary are the people who live around you.
Talk to your neighbors and get to know them. If they know you, and they know your routines, then they know if someone is trying to go into your house; they know that's suspicious activity and they should call the police.
Even just one eagle-eyed person can be helpful.
Find one neighbor you trust and ask them to look out for your house while you're on vacation
Document Your Belongings
Though most burglars are never caught, you have a much better chance at recovering stolen goods if you have records to prove they existed in the first place.
Most victims of a burglary can’t file an adequate insurance claim, because they don’t have records of what was taken.
They don’t have purchase records, serial numbers, etc.
Whatever it is that’s taken, they can’t report it, and they can’t file a claim.
To increase your odds of retrieval...
...you really have to go around and take inventory.
Everybody has a digital camera now, so take a picture of your belongings in its native area.
It's easy to forget certain valuables in the moment when you're talking to law enforcement.
With thorough documentation, "You don't have to recall those valued items during one of the most traumatic experiences of your life.
Stay cautious, think smart, and stay safe.
______________________________
Getting to Know Your Burglar
(Part One of Two)
When you think of a home burglary, you might envision a silent, agile figure breaking in through a window, carefully carting off your computer while you sleep the night away. In reality, that kind of robbery occurs mostly in movies and on TV.
In fact,burglaries are likely to happen when no one is home,"during the day, in the afternoon, in the warm summer months."
What’s more:
...most burglars live somewhere in their neighborhood, ... usually within a half-mile radius, or walking distance.
According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, burglars are almost always young men and about 30% are known to their victim.
Many simply enter a home through an unlocked window or door.
The vast majority (85-95%) are never caught.
How Do Burglars Operate?
Burglary really doesn't know a demographic.
It can happen in affluent neighborhoods; it can happen in low-income neighborhoods. It's a crime that goes across the sectors.
Frequently, thieves are looking for jewelry, cash, and smaller items they can simply grab and sell later.
The burglaries, a lot of times, are committed as a means to acquire, to do other criminal activity—the ability to pawn things for quick cash, the ability to acquire drugs, unfortunately.
While many are unplanned, smash-and-grab events, a surprising number of burglaries are premeditated by shrewder thieves.
Those sort of criminals know when you leave your house, how long you're usually gone, have looked at the access points to your house, and know escape routes, if there are signs of security, when there's less traffic on the street.
They've looked at your routine and pattern to figure out when their best opportunities are going to be.
Tomorrow:
Some Sound Advice !
____________________________
CO Detector
Needs Attention
Now
Did you know the Kidde Carbon Monoxide (CO) detector used by Del Webb/Pulte in SCA homes has an “Expiration Date”?
This is because the detecting components lose their effectiveness after 5 to 7 years (or 10 years in detectors manufactured after 2013) and may no longer detect carbon monoxide.
How to determine if your CO detector has reached the end of its life? (from Kidde website):
Is your carbon monoxide alarm beeping?
End-of-Life warning will occur every 30 seconds.
If the alarm has a digital display, it displays the ERR or END error code.
Replacing the battery WON'T STOP the beep.
The beep will ONLY STOP when the alarm is out of power.
If you believe your CO detector has reached the end of its useful life, it is recommended that you replace it immediately.
You can do this on your own by purchasing a replacement unit at Home Depot, Lowes, or Amazon (or similar stores).
You may also elect to contact a handyman or electrician to install the unit.
The Sun City Anthem Community Service Group (CSG) will also replace the detector as follows:
You will need to purchase the replacement unit.
CSG can install the replacement unit.
CSG can work with you to identify the correct replacement unit for your home.
To have CSG replace your unit, please call CSG at (702) 614-5862.
Remember that CSG will also replace the batteries in your smoke detectors or carbon monoxide detectors.
Home Maintenance
Volunteers provide minor home maintenance services for those unable to safely perform them for themselves.
These services include:
Replacing overhead light bulbs
Replacing or cleaning HVAC filters
Replacing smoke & carbon monoxide (CO) alarm batteries
Installing smoke and CO detectors
Adding salt to water softeners
Lubricating garage doors
Checking emergency flasher porch light
Checking / replacing house number light bulbs
Replacing garage door opener key pad batteries
Business hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday; closed on weekends and holidays.
Just give them a call at the above number.
-
As your article correctly states, Carbon Monoxide detectors need to be replaced every 5 to 7 years. This is particularly important because detectors made before 2013 did not have end of life warning features built into them. Also, important is to realize that Smoke Detectors need to be replaced every ten years. Given the age of Sun City Anthem every home needs to replace their smoke AND carbon monoxide detectors now.
In a survey done by the National Fire Prevention Association, their key survey findings found:
• Half of Americans (50 percent) have three or more smoke alarms in their current home.
• Almost one in five Americans who have smoke alarms (19 percent) say the oldest smoke alarm they currently have in their home is 10+ years old.
• Nearly one in five Americans who have smoke alarms (18 percent) are not at all sure how old the oldest smoke alarm they currently have in their home is.
• When asked how often they should replace smoke alarms, nine in 10 Americans (90 percent) did not select the correct answer, which is once every 10 years.
As the former chief of the Community Patrol, I have suggested to both the board and management to hold an annual Home Safety Fair. We could do this in the ball room and have representatives of both the Henderson Police Department and Fire Department give workshops on home and personal safety. In addition, we could highlight the services of the Community Services Group, the Community Patrol, and the Neighborhood Community Watch Program. Last, commercial vendors of home safety devices and equipment could be invited to show residents what is available for them to buy to make their homes safer. I would recommend that vendors be charged a very low or no fee to participate, because I believe that the educational value of such an annual event is so critical to the health, welfare and safety of all our residents.
________________________
Common Sense Things to do for Safety in your Home
by
Allen Weintraub
Anthem Opinions Administration
1. Motion sensor lights in front of your house and in the back yard at all entrances.
You can purchase at Home depot or at any home store, There are motion sensor lights that are solar powered or electric powered.
Installation is very easy.
2. Put a Dowel rod in the track of any sliding door.
A 1/2 or 3/4 dowel rod will make it very difficult for anyone to enter.
3 .Have timers on one or more lights in your home.
Sometimes have a random setting to change the times that lights go on.
4. Garage doors.
Keep your garage door closed whenever possible.
Also consider an automatic door closer for your garage door.
There are many brands available and they are inexpensive.
Installation is quite easy. Some have settings that garage doors will automatically close after a short period of time.( 3 or 10 minutes)
Of course, these can be turned off temporarily if you want them
to remain open.
Many SCA homes have Liftmaster closers.
Look on the Liftmaster website for more information.
5. Weapons.
I am hesitant to touch this one. If you do have a firearm, make sure you are comfortable, know how to use it and are willing to do so.
If you do not train and learn from a professional, this could not be an answer for you.
Stun Guns are another alternative worth looking into. Again, only use these type weapons if you are familiar and comfortable with them.
6. Burglar alarms.
Many options here. Use the alarm when you are home. Internal motion detectors can be disabled when you are home. Turn alarms on.
7. Common Sense…..
You have heard all of these….lock doors, do not leave windows open.
________________________________
We believe we have some sound advice....
...especially for women !
10 Crucial Tips...When in an Emergency Dangerous Situation
In daylight hours, refresh yourself of these things to do in an emergency situation.
1. The elbow is the strongest point on your body.
If you are close enough to use it, do!
2. If a robber asks for your wallet and/or purse, DO NOT HAND IT TO HER or HIM.
Toss it away from you.
Chances are the molester is more interested in your wallet and/or purse than in you,and he/she will go for the wallet/purse.
RUN LIKE MAD IN THE OTHER DIRECTION!
3. If ever you're thrown into a car trunk, kick out the rear tail lights, stick your arm out the hole, and start waving like crazy.
Though the driver won't see you, every other driver will.
This has saved lives.
4. As soon as you get into your car...lock the doors, and leave.
Women often get into their cars after shopping, eating, working, etc., and just sit (doing their checkbook, or making a list, etc.)
DON'T DO THIS!
The predator will be watching you, and this is the perfect opportunity for her/him to get in on the passenger side, put a gun to your head, and tell you where to go.
If someone is in the car with a gun to your head DO NOT DRIVE OFF.
Instead gun the engine and speed into anything, wrecking the car.
Your air bag will save you.
If the intruder is in the back seat, he (or she) will get the worst of it.
It is better than their finding your body in a remote location.
a. Be aware: look around you, look into your car, at the passenger side floor, and in the back seat.
b. If you are parked next to a big van, enter your car from the passenger door. Most serial killers attack their victims by pulling them into their vans while the victims are attempting to get into cars.
c. Look at the car parked on the driver's side of your vehicle, and the passenger side.
If a male is sitting alone in the seat nearest your car, you may want to walk back into the mall, or to work, and get a guard/policeman to walk you back out.
IT IS ALWAYS BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY. (And better paranoid than dead.)
6. Always take the elevator instead of the stairs. Stairwells are horrible places to be alone, and the perfect crime spot.
(This is especially true at NIGHT!)
7. If the predator has a gun and you are not under her or his control,ALWAYS RUN!
The predator will only hit you (a running target) 4 in 100 attempts; and even then, it most likely WILL NOT be a vital organ.
RUN -- preferably in a zig-zag pattern!
STOP THAT!
Ted Bundy, the serial killer, was a good-looking, well-educated man, who ALWAYS played on the sympathies of unsuspecting women.
He walked with a cane, or a limp, and often asked 'for help' into his vehicle or with his vehicle, which is when he abducted his next victim.
If you wake up in the middle of the night to hear all your taps outside running, or what you think is a burst pipe, DO NOT GO OUT TO INVESTIGATE!
These people turn on all your outside taps full blast so that you will go out to investigate, and then they attack.
Stay alert, keep safe, and look out for your neighbors!
10. The "crying baby" scam.
Take this one very seriously because it was mentioned on America's Most Wanted when they profiled the serial killer in Louisiana.
A crying baby was heard, and a woman called the police because it was late.
The people then told her...DO NOT open the door. They were on their way.
The serial killer had a baby's cry recorded and used it to coax women out of their homes thinking that someone dropped off a baby.
______________________________
Henderson Police Announce Arrest
of
Three Cell Phone Stores Robbery Suspects
Henderson Police, in collaboration with Las Vegas Metropolitan Police, arrested three suspects for multiple armed robberies of cellular telephone stores around the valley.
On June 16th, 23-year-old Rushard Burton was arrested without incident by Henderson Police.
The other two suspects, Kejon Ward and Erica Caldwell were arrested by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police, also on June 16th.
The other two suspects, Kejon Ward and Erica Caldwell were arrested by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police, also on June 16th.
During the robberies, the suspects displayed handguns and demanded store employees move to the back of the store where they were told to lay face down on the floor.
The suspects fled after taking cash and multiple cellular telephones.
No one was injured during any of the robberies.
Five total robberies have been connected to the suspects, including the 2 Henderson robberies.
April 28th at the Sprint store, located at 1022 W. Sunset Road, at about 9 p.m.
May 26th at the Verizon store, located at 9985 S. Eastern Ave., around 8:15 a.m.
Burton is being held in the Henderson Detention Center on three counts of robbery with a deadly weapon, three counts of burglary while in possession of a firearm and three counts of kidnapping with a deadly weapon.
Anyone with information in this case is urged to call the Henderson Police Dept. at (702) 267-4911, or 3 1 1.
To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555.
Tips directly leading to a felony arrest or an indictment processed through Crime Stoppers may result in a cash reward.
___________________________
Henderson Police Begin C.A.P.T.U.R.E Program
Henderson police have begun a program by which they want communities to assist them in solving crimes.
On June 7, 2017 they rolled out their C.A.P.T.U.R.E. program.
It stands for:
"Community Awareness Program
to
Utilize Residential Electronic Eyes"
The program gives Henderson residents the opportunity to register their surveillance cameras.
Police can't "tap into" cameras; it’s simply a camera registration.
If a crime is committed, police will be able to look at the registry and see who has surveillance cameras in that area that may have caught something.
If a crime is committed, police will be able to look at the registry and see who has surveillance cameras in that area that may have caught something.
Police can ask that person to check their video and if they caught something, police will arrange how to get that.
For more information or to sign up for this new program:
The department will then mail a sticker to place outside the home to show people who is working with them.
_____________________________
Checking Your Home for Security
The easiest way for an intruder to get into your house is by coming through the door.
All of your efforts to protect your home, including an electronic home security system, are useless if your doors aren’t secure.
Before you invest in an alarm system, conduct your own home security check of the entry points to your house.
Think like a burglar !
Is your front door visible from the street, or is it obscured by bushes?
A door that’s covered by shrubbery offers thieves the perfect chance to break in without being seen.
Trim back or remove shrubbery that offers cover for potential intruders.
Trim back or remove shrubbery that offers cover for potential intruders.
Upgrade strike plates and deadbolts.
Open all doors and check the strike plates, the metal fittings that catch bolts and latches.
Chances are, they’re fastened to the soft wood of the door jamb with two screws only.
Not good !
Upgrade security with four-screw strike plates ($3) and 3-inch screws that bite all the way into the stud behind the jamb.
When conducting your home security check, make sure exterior doors have deadbolts that throw at least a 1-inch bolt.
When conducting your home security check, make sure exterior doors have deadbolts that throw at least a 1-inch bolt.
Ask your locksmith to upgrade to Grade 1 or Grade 2 lock sets and deadbolts ($25 to $80), the most secure options.
Check garage doors.
Back doors and garage doors are more likely to be attacked than the front door.
In an attached garage, disable the automatic opener and lock the garage door before you go away on a long trip.
The door leading from the garage into the house should be outfitted with the same hardware as exterior doors and kept locked at all times.
Patio doors are vulnerable.
Sliding doors leading to a patio can be a home’s weak spot.
To beef up security:
1. Closely inspect the doors and their hardware.
2. Replace any missing or broken locks.
3. Consider installing locking pins to prevent the doors from sliding.
4. Get into the habit of locking the doors, not just the screen, when patio doors are unattended.
Here are a couple videos for your home door security.
______________________________
This is Part One of a Two Part series.
It is solely for the benefit of those who believe they have been the victim of such behavior.
Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
Defining a Sociopath
So, who or what is a sociopath, exactly?
The term actually describes a particular condition, antisocial personality disorder, or sociopathy.
Sociopathy, according to Mayo Clinic, “is a mental condition in which a person consistently shows no regard for right and wrong and ignores the rights and feelings of others. People with antisocial personality disorder tend to antagonize, manipulate or treat others harshly or with callous indifference. They show no guilt or remorse for their behavior."
Sound like someone you know?
Sociopaths are typically defined by a set of specific behaviors and actions that create many problems and issues in their lives.
Sociopathy, according to Mayo Clinic, “is a mental condition in which a person consistently shows no regard for right and wrong and ignores the rights and feelings of others. People with antisocial personality disorder tend to antagonize, manipulate or treat others harshly or with callous indifference. They show no guilt or remorse for their behavior."
Sound like someone you know?
Sociopaths are typically defined by a set of specific behaviors and actions that create many problems and issues in their lives.
Unfortunately, you may be someone who gets caught up in the turmoil.
Here are seven of those behaviors to keep an eye out for, all telltale signs that you’re dealing with a sociopath.
Compulsive lying
Notice a lot of blatant lying, often for no reason?
Consider that a red flag.
There are some things you can watch out for when dealing with a potential sociopath. It’s the seemingly pointless lying that should truly tell you there’s something going on.
Consider that a red flag.
There are some things you can watch out for when dealing with a potential sociopath. It’s the seemingly pointless lying that should truly tell you there’s something going on.
Emotional detachment
This is the Hallmark feature of a sociopath — complete and total emotional detachment.
Sociopaths can and will do things that others cannot or struggle with because they’ve managed to remove the emotional aspect from their behavior.
Sociopaths can and will do things that others cannot or struggle with because they’ve managed to remove the emotional aspect from their behavior.
Essentially, they aren’t feeling anything when they are wrong or hurt someone, which makes it easier for them to do it. In other words, there’s a lack of empathy.
NARCISSISM
An inflated ego or sense of self-worth is another classic sign of a sociopath.
These people take an overbearing interest in themselves and seem to be more interested in admiring or talking about themselves than interacting with anybody else.
This can come across as selfishness and self-centered.
This can come across as selfishness and self-centered.
A RECKLESS ATTITUDE
As you can see, many of these traits or behaviors cascade into one another.
In this case, recklessness — and it’s easy to be reckless when you lack empathy and have a very high opinion of yourself.
In this case, recklessness — and it’s easy to be reckless when you lack empathy and have a very high opinion of yourself.
Reckless behavior can come in all shapes and forms, but the issue at hand is that a sociopath can’t or won’t see the connection between their behavior and the consequences of their actions.
Add in some narcissism, and they’ll likely think they’ll get away with it, or can’t be punished for their behavior.
Add in some narcissism, and they’ll likely think they’ll get away with it, or can’t be punished for their behavior.
ANGER
Of course, when things don’t go the way the sociopath had planned, it results in explosive anger.
Ever see someone absolutely fly off the handle, or have an ugly meltdown over a minor sleight, real or imaginary?
That should tell you something.
That anger stems from the fact that the inner narcissist is seemingly out of control of their surroundings, which doesn’t jive with a sociopath’s world-view.
MANIPULATION
Ever see someone absolutely fly off the handle, or have an ugly meltdown over a minor sleight, real or imaginary?
That should tell you something.
That anger stems from the fact that the inner narcissist is seemingly out of control of their surroundings, which doesn’t jive with a sociopath’s world-view.
MANIPULATION
Naturally, a sociopath is going to attempt to play puppet master with the people in their lives.
This is likely when many people realize they’re dealing with a sociopath; when it becomes clear that the individual in question is trying to pull the strings and manipulate those around them to get what they want.
Again, they think they’ll get away with it due to their narcissism, and don’t care about the consequences.
A REVOLVING DOOR OF FRIENDS
As you may have guessed, the manipulation, lying, anger, and recklessness easily drives people away.
This is why a sociopath is always surrounded by a new group of people — that is, until the sociopath’s toxicity drives yet another group of friends away.
This is why a sociopath is always surrounded by a new group of people — that is, until the sociopath’s toxicity drives yet another group of friends away.
If you notice that someone can’t hold onto a friend for more than short period of time, there’s probably a reason for it.
Tomorrow...we'll discuss how to deal with a sociopath.
Tomorrow...we'll discuss how to deal with a sociopath.
-
Thank you for your excellent (almost scholarly) article. During my working career I occasionally had the unfortunate experience to have such an individual become one of my "competitors". Happily, professional integrity prevailed: this occasional 'competitor' had his or her license revoked by the State and the 'competitor' went out of business.
- ______________________________
This is Part Two of a Two Part series.
It is solely for the benefit of those who believe they have been the victim of such behavior.
Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
How to Deal with a Sociopath
You need to be wary when dealing with a person with sociopathic tendencies.
Now that you are familiar with their characteristics, here are things to watch out for when dealing with a sociopath.
Practice the ‘Rule of Threes’
Only give someone 3 chances.
After that, it’s best to cut your losses and run.
One mistake such as a lie, a broken promise or a neglected responsibility should be forgiven since it could be a misunderstanding.
The second mistake could be a serious mistake.
The third strike should be the final one.
Cut ties with them completely.
Avoid Them
When you realize you’re dealing with someone who could be a sociopath, make a point of staying away from them.
Do not try to cure them or beat them at their own game.
Don't Try To Reform Them
With studies showing that efforts at curing sociopaths with therapy do not bear fruit, it is best to leave them alone.
They will only waste your time and use the sessions to sharpen their conning and conversational skills.
You simply cannot cure a sociopath.
Only a person who has some humanity in them can be reformed.
Those devoid of a conscience are beyond reform.
Protect Yourself
A sociopath will attempt to drain you of everything you have including your money, emotional well being, power, reputation, and status.
If they see you as a threat to their deceitful lifestyle, they will come after you.
They would want to see you become completely desolate.
They might try to get you fired from a job and/or begin to bad mouth you to friends.
Take any possible preemptive measures.
Keep It to Yourself
How to deal with a sociopath?
Do not confront the sociopath about their behavior and your plan to cease interaction.
This will only backfire on you.
Refrain from Accusations
Do not try to accuse them of any wrongdoing.
They won’t respond well and it might turn into a fight.
You will lose more than they will.
Hold Back Your Emotions
A sociopath wouldn’t want to hear about our feelings especially if what you feel reflects negatively on them.
Avoid getting emotional whenever you are in a confrontation with them.
However, if they feel wronged by you, show them as much empathy as you would another person.
Avoid Intrigue
Do not play mind games with a sociopath.
Your focus should be on protecting yourself.
There’s No Right or Wrong
Don’t talk about being wrong or right.
Sociopaths do not perceive right or wrong.
They only understand power, and they want to have power over you.
Be Skeptical
Sociopaths have perfected the art of pushing people’s buttons in order to get their way with them.
It is important to be on the lookout for this.
How to deal with a sociopath?
Make sure to stay calm and collected no matter what the person says.
Don't Share Personal Information
One thing you need to realize about sociopaths is that they will use anything you tell them against you.
They are professional manipulators, and so you should be wary of what you share with them.
Avoid sharing any information with them.
Suspect Flattery
Flattery and compliments are different, and you should learn to tell them apart.
Sociopaths use flattery as a tool for manipulation.
Avoid Pity Parties
Sociopaths have an easy time manipulating those who pity too easily.
They will give you all sorts of sob stories to get you to do their bidding.
If you are constantly feeling pity for someone who hurts you, then you are probably dealing with a sociopath.
Stay away from them.
That’s how to deal with a sociopath.
Get Back UpDepending on your relationship with the sociopath, you might need professional help to keep help you recover psychologically and physiologically.
This is especially so when the sociopath is unwilling to let you go.
Your friends can be of great help especially if the sociopath cannot reach them or is unknown to them.
This is because the sociopath can easily start spreading rumors about you to your friends in a bid to turn them against you.
Remember
________________________________
Activities You Can Perform to Keep Your Home
Safe
When in doubt....Call the Police !
911
(Emergency)
311
or
(702) 267-5000
(Police Non-Emergency)
That is the procedure recommended by The Henderson Police Department.
Keep a Keen Eye out for something that
"doesn't look right"
"doesn't look right"
What to watch....
1. Trucks parked that do not have the name of the business written on the sides.
2. Old cars and trucks driving slowly through neighborhoods.
3. Strangers...especially those at a younger age....casually walking through neighborhoods.
What to do if you see something
"that doesn't look right"
1. Take pictures of License plates and cars with your cell phone and call the police.
2. Be a nosey neighbor. Call you neighbor if "something doesn't look right".
If you see a strange vehicle parked near their home or an unfamiliar person knocking on their door...and doesn't leave if no one answers, call them.
If you see a strange vehicle parked near their home or an unfamiliar person knocking on their door...and doesn't leave if no one answers, call them.
Better to make a mistake of commission rather than omission.
3. When you leave your home, look around. If you see something that "doesn't look right"...drive around the block once or twice to see if all "appears OK".
4. Try not to be totally predictable….do not leave the house at the exact same time daily. Vary the time by 10 or 15 minutes.
5. Keep your garage door closed whether or not you are home,and for goodness sake, CLOSE IT ENTIRELY....garages are not living beings that need "air" !
6. Install an automatic garage door closer.
These devices will automatically close your garage door after a short time period if for some reason, you forget to close it yourself !
And...are inexpensive.
7. Keep your valuables AWAY from the master Bedroom.
It's normally the first place a burglar will look.
8. Install motion detector lights outside your home at doors and windows.
9. Make sure your alarm has a siren that is loud.
You may want to install an extra siren in the garage as it can be heard easier on the outside.
Got others you can suggest?
Send them to us at:
scaopinions@gmail.com
-
From Lloyd Frank...to...Anthem Opinions
Why are we prohibited from putting an alarm siren on the outside?
There are no people outside who are sitting on their beach chairs, but there might be a burglar, and if the alarm rings, that might cause them to run.
If the association says the noise will bother neighbors well look around there are not many neighbors outside.
Thank you.
Lloyd Frank
________________________________
Las Vegas & Henderson Police
Capture Gas Station Robbers
Four men were arrested as suspects in a string of 16 robberies throughout the Las Vegas Valley over a 17-day stretch.
Four men were arrested as suspects in a string of 16 robberies throughout the Las Vegas Valley over a 17-day stretch.
Las Vegas Metro police said the four men - Rondall Talley,18; Donnell Talley, 18; Tylon Marshall, 19; and Calvin Rembert, 20...
... were booked into Clark County Detention Center.
Each was booked on counts of robbery with a deadly weapon, burglary with a deadly weapon, conspiracy to commit robbery, and attempted murder.
The men are tied to hold-ups that took place in the Henderson and Las Vegas jurisdictions between March 31 and April 16.
In all of the robberies, the assailants were armed with a combination of shotguns, handguns, and, on one occasion, an assault rifle.
The gas stations robbed were:
Shell at 1080 Whitney Ranch
AM PM at 15 E. Horizon Ridge
Shell at 901 W. Sunset
AM PM at 5739 E. Russell
711 at 1680 W. Sunset
Rebel at 4665 E. Sunset
_________________________
Thoughts on Installing a Safe in Your Home
If you have some valuables that you want to be kept safe, or have a few guns that you don't want laying around, or maybe some important paperwork you want secured, then you really should consider installing a safe in your home.
The thing is that many safes, particularly the larger models and the ones designed to be hidden, typically require a bit of work to make them viable.
Here are some rather simple instructions that you can use to ensure that you are installing a safe in your home correctly.
Which model will you have?
The first step in installing a safe into your home is to decide on which model you will be using. There are quite a few different models, all of which will suit a different need, so be sure that you do your homework prior to just picking one out at random.
Choose the right spot.
Once you have chosen the safe that you will have installed in your home, you need to figure out where it will be going.
Take a careful look around the home, and decide on the best possible place.
Considering that most standing safes are somewhat heavy you will want to choose a location that is as structurally sound as possible.
A good location for may types of standing safes are, believe it or not, in the corner of a room.
Prepare the room.
Prior to the delivery of the safe, prepare the room for the work that you will be doing.
It would be a good idea to remove any large, or possibly fragile, items that are in the room. This way you will be able to move the safe around without damaging anything, and also have an easier time of working around the safe.
If necessary, prepare the spot.
Double check the area that you plan on using for your safe, and make sure that it is structurally sound enough to hold the often prodigious weight that comes with a full safe.
It may be necessary to help reinforce the spot prior to installing the safe itself.
One common example of this is to lay down some plywood 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch thick plywood, and attach it to the floor.
You can cover this additional wood with either the same or similar type of flooring that is in the rest of the room to help it blend in a bit more.
Carefully move the safe.
Using the proper tools, move the safe carefully throughout the home and into the room that you want it stored in.
If necessary, have several people help you to move the safe, and also use the proper tools for the job.
Some examples of the tools that you will want to use are things like a dolly, or even powered tools that you can simply guide around.
Oftentimes, when the safe is delivered it will also be dropped off into the proper room by the people delivering it.
Secure and clean up.
When you have the safe in the proper position, you can begin securing it to the platform you made earlier.
Often standing safes have places on the feet where you can pass bolts through.
Use these opening so and secure the safe (using the proper tools and bolts to do so) to the floor.
Once you have the safe secured, you can begin cleaning up the room, and bring back everything that used to be in the room.
Now that you know the basics of installing a standing safe in your home, you can begin working on the project.
If you are looking to have a more "secured" version such as one that is hidden in the wall or floor, then you will have to do a bit more work to get the job accomplished.
In fact, depending on where you want the safe to be installed, you may want to consider hiring a contractor to do the work for you.
-
From Sun City Anthem Board Director Jim Mayfield...to...Anthem Opinions
One point that professional safe stores have made is to not start bragging that you have a home safe.
Put one in and keep your mouth shut is the advice from professionals.
It is also handy to have the combination in your instructions to your executor.
___________________________
Father & Son Team
Arrested in Henderson
for Robbing Two Credit Unions
Henderson Police arrested two men who robbed a Silver State Schools Credit Union branch, located at 9302 S. Eastern Ave., on Jan. 24 and the America's First Credit Union, at 10608 S. Eastern Ave., on Feb. 16.
Jessy James, 22 years old...
...and his father, Jeffrey James, 51 years old...
...were taken into custody without incident at a Henderson Walmart parking lot. Money from the credit union robberies was found in the pockets of both men, and detectives recovered further evidence of the suspects' involvement in the crimes during the search of their vehicles.
Henderson Police detectives were able to locate and identify the father and son based on surveillance video, witness descriptions of the suspects, and the vehicles they used to flee the scene.
The suspects robbed the credit unions by presenting a note demanding money to cashiers.
A gun was brandished in both robberies.
The suspects are being held at the Henderson Detention Center on charges of robbery and burglary.
No one was injured during either robbery.
The suspects robbed the credit unions by presenting a note demanding money to cashiers.
A gun was brandished in both robberies.
The suspects are being held at the Henderson Detention Center on charges of robbery and burglary.
No one was injured during either robbery.
Anyone with information in this case is urged to call the Henderson Police Department at 702-267-4911, 3-1-1, or, to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 702-385-5555 or visit Crime Stoppers website or text: “CRIMENV” + tip info to 274637 (CRIMES). Message & data rates may apply.
Tips directly leading to a felony arrest or an indictment processed through Crime Stoppers may result in a cash reward.
-
See "Resident Reports of Concerning Neighborhood Crime Activity" Information Page for latest crime report.
_________________________
Henderson Police Arrest Another Individual
for
Residential Burglary
The Henderson Police Department have arrested another suspect in connection with the multiple residential burglaries in Henderson.
Cymone Tippen....
...age 24, was arrested Tuesday afternoon, February 21, 2017 and charged with two counts of burglary.
In a previous arrest an individual named Michael Gale, age 19 was incorrectly arrested with others for home burglary.
Instead, he has been charged as a minor for possession of an alcoholic beverage in public, open alcoholic container in a vehicle, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
_____________________________
Henderson Police Arrest
6 Suspects in Multiple Residential Burglaries
From the Henderson Police Dept.
Henderson Police would like to thank you all for your assistance and support in capturing these suspects that are responsible for many of the recent burglaries in your community.
We could not have accomplished this so quickly without the tips, video surveillance footage and photographs that were submitted by you. We still believe there are outstanding suspects so stay alert, aware and continue reporting suspicious vehicles and people in your neighborhood.
We could not have accomplished this so quickly without the tips, video surveillance footage and photographs that were submitted by you. We still believe there are outstanding suspects so stay alert, aware and continue reporting suspicious vehicles and people in your neighborhood.
Henderson Police have arrested six suspects in connection with multiple residential burglaries in Henderson.
Henderson Police received tips, including video surveillance footage and photographs from concerned citizens reporting suspicious activity which helped the investigation.
“Partnerships with the community are the foundation of effectively preventing and solving crime,” said Henderson Police Chief Patrick Moers. “This is another great example of how these partnerships can lead to collaborative problem solving.”
Having a strong presence by established Neighborhood Watch groups is also being credited with helping to solve these crimes.
The following suspects were arrested:
Jacque Plant
(Age 19)
Michael Gale
(Age 19)
Adolphus Newell
(Age 21)
Dennis Felton
(Age 37)
Donique Divers
(Age 20)
Reinaldo Estrada-Hernandez
(Age 25)
The suspects face multiple charges that include burglary, possession of stolen property, possession of a stolen vehicle and gun charges.
Henderson Police believe there are outstanding suspects and continue their active investigation.
Henderson Police believe there are outstanding suspects and continue their active investigation.
Residents are encouraged to stay alert and follow these safety tips:
When coming and going from your residence, pay attention to vehicles and people nearby that may be casing the area to commit crime.
Continue to report suspicious people and vehicles to police.
Lock the doors and windows of your residence and your vehicles.
Remove valuables from your vehicles while it is parked and unattended or hide them from plain view.
Keep a log of your valuables including serial numbers, make/model and pictures, especially for items like jewelry and tools that do not have serial numbers.
Citizens can keep a safe and secure log of their valuables online for free at:
Anyone with information about these cases is urged to call the Henderson Police Department at (702) 267-4911, 3-1-1, or, to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555 or visit Crime Stoppers website or text: “CRIMENV” + tip info to 274637 (CRIMES). Message & data rates may apply.
Tips directly leading to a felony arrest or an indictment processed through Crime Stoppers may result in a cash reward.
________________________________
Henderson Police Seek Assistance
The Henderson Police Department has issued the following information bulletin:
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
The Henderson Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying two vehicles of interest that have been seen at or around some addresses where property crimes have occurred.
The first vehicle is a gray Dodge Charger, possibly 2006-2010, with tinted windows and black wheels.
The first vehicle is a gray Dodge Charger, possibly 2006-2010, with tinted windows and black wheels.
The second vehicle is a black BMW with dark tinted windows and black wheels.
HPD is asking to be notified if you see these cars.
Please do not approach or confront any occupants of the vehicles.
Call 311 or (702) 267-5000 option 2, to report any sightings of these vehicles.
Call 311 or (702) 267-5000 option 2, to report any sightings of these vehicles.
If it is possible to safely ascertain the license plate numbers we would appreciate that information too.
-
The 702-267-5000 number is ALWAYS better than using the 311 option....when you use 311 the called gets routed through Las Vegas Metro & you could wait 30 minutes for a response. the 267-5000 is the number that goes DIRECTLY to Henderson PD.
-
It has been reported that at approximately 1:00pm on Saturday, February 11, 2017, the automobile matching the reported description (black sedan with black rims) was stopped in Seven Hills by 6 Henderson Police vehicles.
It was also reported that 2 males were sitting on a curb near the Seven HIlls tennis courts.
The individual making the siting returned approximately one hour later, and witnessed the said vehicle being loaded on a tow truck.
No confirmation if these were the suspects being sought following the recent report. -
Anther report was that US Bank has been taped off indicating some kind of disturbance. No further information as to whether the previous post of the suspicious vehicle had any involvement.
-
Latest news regarding the Dodge Charger suspicious vehicle reported:
Nevada License Plate: 147 YPK
-
-
-
_____________________________
Fooling a Thief
is
Better Than
No Security System at All !
by
Forrest Fetherolf
Our Mr-Fix-It
You've read about home break-in after break-in !
It seems that no matter how sophisticated the security system you have, or are considering, the "bad guys" somehow still appear to get away with your valuables.
The police never seem to be near when you need them, and after you report any suspicious activity, the "villains" seem to be long gone by the time they get there.
So, what might be the best alterative in lieu of spending big bucks to keep them away?
How about trying to FOOL THEM !
Here is another very inexpensive solution to fool the thieves lurking in our neighborhoods.
Burglars are thieves of opportunity and do not want to be identified. They drive around the neighborhood looking for an easy target to get in and get out as quickly as possible without being seen or heard.
Your goal is to fool the thieves into thinking they are on a video camera and your house is secure.
Monitored security systems with cameras are expensive and can record activities when they occur and alert the monitoring company to call the police.
But...
Sadly, nowadays the police don't respond to alarm calls unless the caller verifies that the suspect(s) are there during the break-in !
A great idea ????
A DUMMY CAMERA SYSTEM
Dummy cameras are very inexpensive, look real, and, most importantly...
...will give the burglars something to think about.
There is a good possibility the burglars will bypass your home and look for another without cameras.
Dummy cameras along with yard signs...
and window decals...
...send a message to the burglars...you CARE and are SERIOUS !
The below link from Amazon has 4 dummy cameras for about $20.
Installation is easy...just screw the cameras to the corners of your home as high as possible (out of reach).
Installation is easy...just screw the cameras to the corners of your home as high as possible (out of reach).
Stay safe....and give that person who is even thinking about entering your home a second thought before they do !
___________________________
Safety Film for Your Patio Doors and / or Windows
As luck has it, I just spent about 90 minutes with Andy Mensch , Mensch's window tinting and security film at (702) 762-4739, who specializes in window tinting and security film.
Here are a few things that I took away from the meeting.
Here are a few things that I took away from the meeting.
Window tinting is to keep some of the heat from penetrating into the house thus saving some electric primarily in the summertime.
Window tinting does nothing for security.
There are 2 main types of glass that we have in our homes.
Tempered Glass
This is the same type of glass that is used in automobile windshields. When broken, the glass shatters into very small pieces.
It is a type of safety glass processed by controlled thermal or chemical treatments to increase its strength compared with normal glass.
Tempering puts the outer surfaces into compression and the inner surfaces into tension.
Such stresses cause the glass, when broken, to crumble into small granular chunks instead of splintering into jagged shards as plate glass (a.k.a. annealed glass) creates. The granular chunks are less likely to cause injury.
As a result of its safety and strength, toughened glass is used in a variety of demanding applications, including passenger vehicle windows, shower doors, architectural glass doors and tables, refrigerator trays, mobile screen protectors, as a component of bulletproof glass, for diving masks, and various types of plates and cookware.
Our patio doors are made of tempered glass.
That is the reason that burglars go for the patio door.
When the glass crumbles, they can just walk thru the door without a great risk of getting injured.
Plate Glass
Plate glass is used in the majority of the windows in Sun City Anthem.
The one characteristic of plate glass is when smashed or broken, it does not break into tiny pieces and the chances of injury from glass is much greater.
Thus, the burglars find it safer to break tempered glass rather than plate glass.
Is it any wonder that most of the SCA and Solara burglaries have had entrance thru the tempered sliding glass doors.
Security film is another story.
This film sticks to the window and catches the glass that can be broken when rocks are thrown.
The security film holds the glass in place so there is not a big mess.
It is important to have the Security Film installed on the inside of the glass rather than the outside.
It is also important to have the edges of the security film closed at all the edges and corners.
This increases the strength of the film.
The film has a sticky type substance on it that bonds the glass to the film so when broken, it tends to stay in place..
Security film comes in different grades of thickness.
The commercial grade is 12 mil thick or greater and in my opinion is the only one to use.
Some people use 5, 6, or 7 mil security film. This is not as strong as 12 mm, but it is less expensive . The thinner it is, the less it costs.
Security film then becomes difficult and time consuming to try to cut thru because the glass adheres to the film.
If installed properly on the inside of the door and with tempered glass, cutting away the window may be possible, but could be more time consuming for the burglar.
Security film is most effective with tempered glass (sliding doors mainly) and not as effective with plate glass.
Some security film can also have the tint built into the film.
Will security film prevent a burglar from entering your home?
NO, it will just make it more difficult and the more time it takes to break into a home, the less likely you will become a victim.
Another benefit of the security film...
...it decreases the UV (ultra violet) exposure greatly. (less furniture, drapes, and floor discoloring from the sun.)
Should you have safety glass in your entire house, or on your patio door?
Your choice!
-
From Lisa Margaret B....to...Anthem Opinions
FYI, if you are an original owner and your house has Milguard windows/sliding glass doors, they have a lifetime warranty.
However, if you put any film or tint on them, you void the warranty. -
We added the film. Then we called our Alarm company and added glass shock sensors. If someone even starts banging on the glass in an attempt to gain entry, your alarm will be activated. You don't want to wait for them to gain access, especially through broken windows or doors. If you don't have a motion detector - they won't set off an alarm until they open a door to leave. There is about 15-20 minutes from the time an alarm is activated until police are dispatched - the burglars know this - so the sooner you get that siren going - the more likely they are to give up trying to get in - especially if they are still outside trying to gain entry. They know their time inside will be very limited if they are still banging on windows and doors and they already hear a siren activated. Put on the film - then add the sensors, which are relatively inexpensive and unobtrusive. The motion detectors are great too and we have those, but still, why wait for them to get on the inside - that's not the optimum situation.
-
__________________________
CLOSE THE GARAGE DOOR!
by
Robert Nusser
An incredible number of homes have their garage doors wide open throughout the day (and even at night). This is an open invitation to any thief that happens to drive by – you might as well post a sign that says:
There’s really no reason to leave the doors open.
Some people claim they want some “fresh air”……with all the dust in the Vegas atmosphere that’s an oxymoron.
Some people claim they want some “fresh air”……with all the dust in the Vegas atmosphere that’s an oxymoron.
Some leave the door open with a 6-12” gap at the bottom:
You MAY keep out the two-legged vermin, but that’s plenty of room for rattlesnakes, desert rats, and even coyotes to have access to your interior.
And there have been cases where a thief wriggled through the 12” gap, much to the surprise and chagrin of the homeowner.
Now, of course, you may be working in your front or rear yard and leave the door open for access to your rakes, tools, and other implements of destruction (I do that myself); but frequently I go by a house with the garage door open AND no car(s) in the garage!
That’s like posting a sign that says:
Worse yet, your Spouse could be home alone and suddenly face an intruder who thought the house was empty".
As a caveat regarding the automatic garage doors:
I personally had a defective door that would automatically re-open once the door hit the ground….
ALWAYS wait to see that the door has closed (and stays closed) when leaving your house.
So, use some common sense and make it difficult for any potential Thief
Keep those garage doors CLOSED.
Photo of Bank Robber Disclosed
Have you seen this man?
Have you seen this man?
On December 16, 2016, this suspect entered a Henderson branch of Bank of America, located at 10 E. Horizon Ridge Pkwy., at about 4:25 p.m.
He handed a bank employee a piece of paper and pulled out a silver handgun from a zippered bag.
The suspect reached over the counter, grabbed an undisclosed amount of cash from the employee and walked out of the bank.
He entered a black SUV, exited the parking lot, and headed northbound on East Horizon Ridge Parkway.
No one was injured during the robbery.
He is described as a while male in his 40s, approximately 5'8" tall, and was last seen wearing a dark colored Kangol-style hat backwards, glasses with dark frames, a blue jacket with black accents on the shoulders, a tan plaid shirt with a dark colored square pattern, blue jeans and dark colored gloves while carrying a square patterned zippered bag and a silver handgun.
Anyone with information in this case is urged to call the Henderson Police Dept. at (702) 267-4911 or 311.
To remain anonymous call Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555.
Also...just a reminder ! Don't forget to periodically check out our Information Page ...
"Resident Reports of Concerning Crime Activity"
...for the latest information received from residents and the Henderson Police Department.
Got any additional information on any other suspicious activity in the Anthem communities ?
Send it to us at:
scaopinions@gmail.com
-
We have been advised that there is a Red Rodeo SUV on the 2800 block of Meadow Park Ave. in Sun City Anthem that may be doing some landscaping work.__________________________
We have been notified this vehicle has 2 Latino workers and is unlicensed to do such work.
Please ask any and all landscapers to produce both a license and proof of insurance before you contact them.
Any injury sustained in the absence of such evidence can and likely make you RESPONSIBLE as a result of employing an unlicensed and/or uninsured firm.
We ask anyone who witnesses landscaping vehicles without displaying the name of the company and the license number to report this to the Henderson Police and send Anthem opinions an email in order that we may report this on our "Resident Reports of Concerning Crime Activity" Information Page.
The City of Henderson
Offers
Crime Search & Sex Offender
Maps
Did you know ...
The City of Henderson offers Crime Search and Sex Offender Location Maps of those in various communities ?
To obtain this information, click on this link:
Once you click on this site, scroll down to the respective section you wish to examine.
Then click on it.
It will bring up a disclaimer which requires you to acknowledge before you enter the site.
Read it, acknowledge it, then in the "Search" bar, type in your home address.
Then click "Submit".
It will then bring up a large map of your immediate area.
Go to the left side of the screen and you will see a (+) and (-) sign. Keep clicking on the (-) sign until you are able to see the entire immediate surrounding area.
We hope this information will assist all residents in order to further insure their knowledge and safety of our community.
Anthem Opinions Administration
______________________________
Automatic Garage Door Closers
Something Every Senior Should Have
In this world of safety and being aware of the things that can make our homes more secure, I highly recommend an automatic garage door closer.
Installation is simple…..just connect the 2 wires that are already connected to your current garage door opener in your garage.
That's it.
With a 25% discount from Liftmaster until the end of this year, this is a real deal.
Inexpensive to start and almost a give a way at 25% off.
Also available on Amazon.
If you leave your house and accidentally leave your garage door open, this unit will close it for you.
If you open it in the day and forget to close it in the evening, this unit will close it for you.
If you want it to stay open, there is a special button on the wall that says do nothing.
Before any doors close, there is a long beep to remind you that it is closing.
Every home in SCA should have one of these.
I strongly suggest the LiftMaster 888LM
Consumers receive 25% off Garage Door Opener accessories.
Valid through 12/31/16.
Offer valid only on purchases made at
All prices US $. Taxes and shipping extra.
Not valid with other offers or discounts.
Limit 3 per items per order.
_______________________
by
Robert Nusser
Sun City Anthem Resident
Many of us enjoy the convenience of on-line shopping; unfortunately the “many of us” includes thieves that blossom during this holiday time.
When your package is delivered, most services (like UPS and Fed Ex) announce the delivery with a courtesy doorbell ring – some do not.
If you are unaware of the presence of your package (or happen to be away at the time), the package may sit at the front door unnoticed for hours (or even days) before you get home.
Unnoticed, that is, except for the trolls that actually follow the delivery trucks and make note of the delivery address.
Their ‘modus operandi’ is to either:
(1) immediately steal the package from your front door, or
(2) return at a later time and, if the package is still sitting there, help themselves to it...the “smart” ones may even first ring the doorbell and wait to see if you’re home. If there’s no answer, the package is gone; if you happen to answer the door, you retrieve the package and the trolls move on to the next victim.
What should you do?
I would suggest the following common-sense procedures:
1. IF you know you will be away for a few days, don’t make on-line purchases where the delivery could dovetail with your absence; as an alternative, check to see whether you can coordinate the delivery with the delivery company so that the package is NOT delivered during your absence.
2. Notify a trusted neighbor of the anticipated delivery and ask that they retrieve the package from your doorstep.
3. While driving through the Anthem communities, IF you happen to notice what APPEARS to be a vehicle following a Fed Ex or UPS Delivery truck, try to jot down the license plate number and IMMEDIATELY call 311….do NOT confront the driver of the suspicious vehicle yourself.
Using some common sense will help make the holiday season even more joyous for yourself and the recipients of your on-line purchases (except, of course, for the trolls that intend to steal your package).
Hi Dick,
In reference to this topic:
Even the ones that have gone thru the testing for a contractor's license don't meet the standards of what the state of California expects.
As someone who had 3 California licenses, the magic word is, "workmanship."
While part of the job is cleanup, that is fine, but beyond that they take on various work the entails details like keeping the area clean, using either or proper materials, and in the event something goes wrong and within the standard year of normal warranty they just take so much time to return, they do not.
I'm betting so many people around here have so many stories it would make you cringe.
I know the problem, and it's unfortunate. It's called "culture." I'm not trying to belate the culture because I know they are very, very hard working people, but there needs to be so much more than someone saying one morning, "I think I'm going into a landscaping business because I can." There must be some minimal training (as is anything the government expects) like California wants for verification of proof of "workmanship."
It's really a sad mess of what we have around here. Not only that but for the most part as these "contractors" work in this area I have tried countless times and always asked the question (but rarely got an answer), "how much do you want per hour?" I didn't care what they told me. Whether it was $50 an hour, or $75 an hour, that was OK, I didn't hardly get an answer as to how much was it to do the job before they started (either). They just didn't know, or try to figure out how much!
So sad. What a total mess, and our NV contractor board can't seem to figure it out either, nor do they care, obviously!
Oh, as a P.S. Thanks for all the hard, honest work you put into your blog!
As some good advice to our readers:
Never...hire any landscaping service that is not licensed, and also ask to see their insurance coverage certificate as well before you contract them for services. Also, when you see the insurance certificate, make sure you also check the date it expires to see if currently in force.
The license numbers of the landscaping services are often displayed on the side of their vehicles.
If you don't see anything displayed, contact the City of Henderson. In the past they responded and will fine them.