Police Gives Dover Residents Summer Safety Tips

While many residents of Dover leave town on vacation, Officer John Cash says homeowners could also be leaving their houses at risk.

“We see a rash of break-ins and burglaries during the summer,” he said. “They’ll hit an area like Westwood and Medfield, and then they’ll hit Dover.”

Cash advises residents before they leave, to make sure all locks have been properly checked and aren’t left open. In addition, Cash suggests homeowners try to avoid some of the “tell-tale” signs of being away on vacation, like piles of newspapers in the driveway.

“We see a lot of house alarms in the summer,” he said. “We have to go on a lot more house checks than usual.” Some of those include pet or house sitters who get in trouble with the homeowner’s security system.

If a resident would like their houses checked over break, Cash said if they leave their contact information with the police, they can perform a house check or let a homeowner know if there’s a break-in.

Cash also advises residents to keep tabs on elderly neighbors and pets who could be more susceptible to the high heat during the summer.

“Just keep an eye on the weather forecast, have water for the family and dogs,” he said. “Everyone is susceptible to heat.”

Lastly, Cash advises drivers on the road to be cautious of the increase in cyclists. “Everyone just needs to remember to have road respect,” he said. “It might be frustrating if you’re trying to get somewhere in a hurry, but just be cautious on the road.”