Air conditioning thefts and electronic device usage: Tips for you

Copper and aluminum in external air conditioning units valuable to a thief. (Who knew?) Electronic devices are not only valuable but they "steal" your attention, making you easier prey for thieves and muggers.

From the 14th Police District, here are ways to make your external air conditioning housing units less a target.

• • • Make sure the area around the A/C Unit location is well lit.
    • Install floodlights or motion sensing lights.
    • Secure units to the house with a padlock and chain.
    • Also secure the power disconnect box with a padlock.
    • Replace hex head screws found on the top the A/C Unit with tamper resistant or one way screws.
    • Install a locked cage or fence around the A/C unit. Keep gates to your backyard or business property locked.
    • Install an alarm inside the A/C's top cover or in other areas of the unit.
    • Check with an A/C company, your alarm company or the Internet for available options.
    • Call 911 immediately to report any suspicious activity, persons or vehicles in the area.

Keep yourself and your electronic devices safer with these tips from the Guardian Angels:

• Get off the phone. Not only are you distracted, but you just invited the attention of a criminal.
• Take the headphones off. You can not hear anyone who might try to sneak up on you.
• If you're texting, you are not aware of your surroundings.
• You tablet, laptop or cell phone can easily be sold before you can track it with a GPS system.
• Do not use your laptop on mass transit buses or trains.
• Have your back up numbers handy at home in case your phone is stolen.
• Do not walk with you phone or mp3 player in your hand even if you anr not using it. You are inviting unwanted attention.
• Call the police (911) from a safe location immediately if you see or are the victim of a crime.