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Crime Prevention Programs
The Vandalia Division of Police is deeply committed to enhancing community safety through proactive initiatives. We prioritize educating our community on crime prevention through a range of programs. Our efforts include conducting Residential and Business Security Surveys to identify vulnerabilities and provide tailored recommendations for enhancing security measures. Additionally, we host Safety Talks covering various topics, such as the Run Hide Fight protocol, empowering individuals with essential skills to respond effectively to emergencies. Moreover, we collaborate with local schools, neighborhood associations, and businesses to foster partnerships and create a safer environment for everyone.
- Gun Lock Give-Away Program
- National Night Out
- Operation Identification
- Residential & Business Security Surveys
About the Gun Lock Give-Away Program
The Division has issued over 300 free gun locks at various events and to people who came to the police department requesting the locks. Locks are issued at the National Night Out event and during the Vandalia-Butler Chamber of Commerce Community Business Expo.
About National Night Out
The Vandalia Division of Police hosts a "National Night Out Against Crime" in August. National Night Out offers an opportunity for police and citizens to unite against crime. Some of the activities during National Night Out include children's activities, bicycle rodeo and static display of public safety emergency vehicles and equipment.
About Operation Identification
The Crime Prevention Officer strongly encourages the citizens of Vandalia to mark their valuable items and keep a complete and accurate inventory of the items. The inventory should include the value, brand name, model number, serial number and a photograph if possible.
We recommend that you mark your valuable items with an electric engraver. The Vandalia Division of Police Crime Prevention Officer will loan an electric engraver to any City of Vandalia resident who requests one. If you would like to borrow an engraver please contact Rich Sommer, Crime Prevention Officer.
About the Surveys
If you are worried about the security of your home or business the Crime Prevention Officer can help you. The Crime Prevention Officer can come to your home or business and perform a security survey. These surveys usually last between a half-hour to an hour.
The survey will provide you with a starting point to making your home or business more secure. The security surveys evaluate windows and doors, locking devices, lighting, exterior landscaping, and surveillance systems. The officer will make recommendations about how to improve security at your home or office.
The Crime Prevention Officer works closely with other city departments, to ensure that the homeowner or businesses are receiving the best possible information.