BY JIMMY LAWTON

North Country This Week

OGDENSBURG –  Ogdensburg City Police Sergeant Danielle M. Pryce is encouraging city residents to join the neighborhood watch and offering tips to prevent crimes during the holiday season.

“With the new trends in crimes occurring every day, the Ogdensburg City Police Department needs the City of Ogdensburg residents' assistance with information in your area in hopes to reduce the chance that crime will happen to you or your neighbors,” Pryce said.

 “Remember this; if you feel that there is suspicious activity or person(s) in your area and it becomes a concern to you, please call your local police department. The personal safety of the residents of the City of Ogdensburg is our number one concern. You all are our eyes and ears of this great City.”

Pryce said that one way residents can help make a difference is by joining the  Neighborhood Watch Program in the City of Ogdensburg.

Pryce said that more than 200 residents attended a recent public safety meeting but at this  time, only 29 residents showed interest in becoming a member of the Neighborhood Watch Program throughout the City of Ogdensburg. 

“Some residents may not have been aware of this meeting, or were unable to attend. I encourage all City of Ogdensburg residents to speak with your neighboring residents in your area and inform them  of the Neighborhood Watch Program,” she said.

Anyone interested in participating in the Neighborhood Watch Program should contact Pryce  via email at dharte@ogdensburg.org or by phone at (315) 393-1551

Additionally Pryce is warning residents to take extra precautions over the holiday season.

“The number of crimes throughout the City in regards to criminal mischief to property, and vehicle break-ins, as well as trespassing and burglaries of homes, is always a concern. Please protect your homes by securing your windows and doors. Never leave your residential doors unlocked, especially during night hours, whether you're away on vacation, work, or even when you're sleeping. Whether it's during the day, or during night hours, remember to lock your vehicle doors,” she said.

Pryce says it’s worth taking the time to make sure valuables aren’t left in vehicles as well.

“Never leave any valuables such as money, stereo equipment, merchandise, purses, wallets, Christmas Gifts, etc. in your vehicles. Leaving such valuables in your vehicles, whether its daylight or darkness, whether it's locked or unlocked, results in the susceptibility of your vehicle being a target,” she said.

Pryce says the same logic applies to no residential outbuildings as well, such as garages, sheds and enclosed trailers.

Pryce said residents should also bring larger items normally kept on porches or on property inside. 

She said criminals may also target packages left by delivery services.

“With the Holidays comes, mail or packages being delivered to your homes and left on porches. This leaves your purchases susceptible to being stolen by passersby,” she said. “Contact your delivery services representative and either pick up your packages at the place of business, the US Postal Office, UPS, FedEx, etc.”