SBPD Alert

The Seal Beach Police Department reports an increase in golf cart and bicycle thefts in the Leisure World community.

Considering the recent occurrences, SBPD has provided the following security tips.

• Keep golf carts and bicycles in well lit areas and/or in front of motion-activated flood lights. If possible, consider keeping bicycles in enclosed areas such as locked sheds or indoors. Most thefts have reportedly occurred during nighttime hours when criminals are using the cover of darkness to prowl the community.

• Secure property with locking devices and/or security features. Security features are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. For a list of security features/devices, visit https:// www.windtreegolf.com/golfcart- anti-theft/.

• Do not leave keys with or near golf carts. It’s easy to get complacent in a gated community; however, don’t make it easier for criminals to steal your property. Residents should keep keys locked inside their homes.

• Keep a record of golf cart and bicycle serial numbers along with makes and models. Keep this record and photographs to help identification in an easily accessible place. Generic descriptions alone cannot specify an item unless it has a serial number or other unique identifier. Keep in mind that thieves will commonly remove distinctive items placed on golf carts and bicycles to avoid detection.

• Be vigilant of your community and report suspicious activity. Remember, “If you see something, say something.”