|
 Vigilance is ever the watchword in keeping ourselves and our neighborhood safe. “Be aware of your surroundings - as you travel or shop” is the exhortation from our police. We concur, and with our officers, urge you to remove all valuables, even not-so-valuable (coins, laundry, etc), even vestiges of valuables (tell-tale ring of GPS suction cup) or else - you may become a victim of a car break-in.
Of course, step one is to “lock your car” at all times. However, if you do suffer a vehicle break-in—one that takes place within the boundaries of East Falls or Southwest Germantown - don’t touch anything. Call 9-1-1. An officer, specially trained to take prints, will record the data for lab investigators. “Reading” the scene of car break-ins is currently a pilot project for Service Area #1. If successful in providing leads, patterns, arrests—the expectation is the project will expand to the rest of the 39th Police District.
Our homes are another area where we need to be safety conscious. Crime Prevention Officer Joseph Lukaitis urges, “Even if you’re going on a short errand—lock all your windows and doors. It’s unfortunate we have to do so, but, we do. We need to take these precautions so that we don’t become victims.” Officer Lukaitis also asks us to remind you that he will personally come out and inspect your home and premises, and offer his expertise in helping you to maximize your safety. He says, “Just call me @ 215-686-2751 and I’ll be there for you.” CeaseFirePA sent a representative to the September community meeting held at the 39th PD HQ. Orla Treacy is operations director for the group whose motto is “working to prevent gun violence in your community.” EFTW invited her to its October meeting where thoughtful discussion ensued. Treacy asked members to contact US Sen. Bob Casey to urge him to oppose (the Senate version of) H.B.822, a so-called conceal-to-carry bill, “that would circumvent Pennsylvania law enforcement.” Commissioner Charles Ramsey has testified against the bill on behalf of the Philadelphia Police Department. One Town Watch member raised a question about guns on school campuses, e.g., Philadelphia Univ., and the concern that institutions may be forced against their will and judgment to abide guns on their premises. Treacy said, “In Philadelphia, illegal guns are a huge problem…” She said under current PA law, guns cannot be worn in public other than by police…” Sen. Casey can be reached @ 202-224-6324 or 215-405-9660. Further information @ www.CeaseFirePA.org or 215-923-3151. Treacy is more than willing to come again to East Falls if there is a group, perhaps a church or school, willing to ask. She thanked EFTW for the work we do that includes quality of life issues such as sanitation and graffiti. She said, “Deterioration of communities starts when those issues are neglected. Keep up the great work you do!” All residents are invited to our monthly meetings. Next one is scheduled for Thursday, November 10th, 7:30pm, at our HQ in the Carfax Building, 3540 Indian Queen Lane. Neighbors can also attend monthly meetings with Lt. Ed Bier, head of PSA #1 on Tuesday, November 22nd at 7pm in Philadelphia University’s Downs Hall. Also, on the November 28th, the 39th community meeting will be held at PD HQ, 22nd & Hunting Park at 7pm. All are welcome to bring concerns and seek solutions.
|
