(EDITOR’S NOTE: This is one in a series of articles about property crime in Great Bend and the steps that are being taken to address it.)

Unfortunately, as local officials already know and involved local residents are starting to learn, for every area in which home owners work to be safe, criminals also work to find ways to create new victims.
So it’s always a good idea to be as careful as possible, local and national crime experts stress.
The issue came under discussion locally this week when the Great Bend City Council discussed concerns about local property crime.
They were told that one way to combat the problem is with better security for local property, and that’s good advice, according to the National Crime Prevention Council.
There are several parts of our homes that are especially vulnerable, according to NCPC information.
Window protection includes insuring:
• Every window in the house has a working key lock or is securely pinned.
• Windows are always locked, even when they are opened a few inches for ventilation.
Security measures around the house:
• Shrubs and bushes need to be trimmed so there is no place for someone to hide.
• There should be no dark areas around the house, garage, or yard where someone could hide.
• Every outside door should have a bright, working light to illuminate visitors.
• Floodlights should be used appropriately to ensure effective illumination.
• Outdoor lights should be on in the evening, whether someone is at home or not.
• A photo-cell or motion-sensitive lighting system can be installed to initiate lighting.
• The house number should be  clearly displayed so police and other emergency vehicles can find the house quickly.
Great Bend Police Department Lt. Scott Harper is encouraging a renewed interest in Neighborhood Watch programs around Great Bend.
Anyone interested in developing a Neighborhood Watch program can contact Harper, 793-4120.