In response to crime analysis report for Clifton, which reflected an upward trend in burglary and thefts in early 2007, the Clifton Town Meeting instituted the “Light Up Clifton” program. The program received a $4,000 grant from the Uptown Consortium.

“Clifton Town Meeting worked with Cincinnati Police District 5 to put together a packet of proven crime prevention tips to improve security in and around the Clifton area,” explained George Bishop, chairman of the Clifton Town Meeting Safety Committee. “Also included in the packet was an energy-smart 19-watt compact fluorescent light to use as a porch light. The packets were distributed and residents were encouraged to turn on their porch lights and keep them on all night.” Effective exterior lighting on homes is considered an important deterrent to property crimes.

Tips for protecting your home and property 

Lighting
•    Light up your sidewalk and driveway.
     Exterior lighting should provide 100 feet of visibility from within house.
•    Install motion-sensor lights in the rear and on the sides of your house.

Locks
•    Lock doors from inside with deadbolts.
•    Lock your car and any other buildings on your property, such as garden sheds or garages and
     keep valuables out of sight.
•    Do not hide keys in planter boxes, under doormats, or elsewhere around your home.
     Instead, give them to a trusted neighbor.

Security Measures
•    Record the serial numbers on electronics, such as stereos and televisions.
•    Photograph valuables and keep an inventory of them.
•    Photocopy the contents of your wallet, especially your driver’s license and credit cards.
•    Keep all of these documents in a safe place.