October is National Crime Prevention Month, and the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves, their families and their property.
Crime prevention is a shared responsibility. While deputies work every day to keep Beaufort County safe, residents play an important role by staying informed, remaining alert and taking simple precautions to reduce opportunities for crime.
Throughout October, the Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents that small actions can make a big difference.
Crime Prevention Tips
Protect Your Home
- Lock doors and windows, even when you’re home.
- Install outdoor lighting and consider motion-activated lights or security cameras.
- Avoid leaving spare keys in obvious locations.
- Keep garage doors closed and secure valuables.
- When traveling, ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on your property.
Secure Your Vehicle
- Always lock your vehicle, even when parked in your driveway.
- Remove firearms, wallets, purses and other valuables.
- Never leave keys or key fobs inside an unattended vehicle.
- Park in well-lit areas whenever possible.
- Remember to remove or conceal items that could attract thieves.
Recognize and Avoid Scams
- Be cautious of unsolicited calls, text messages and emails requesting money or personal information.
- Never provide financial information or verification codes to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
- Be suspicious of anyone demanding immediate payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency or payment apps.
- Verify suspicious requests by contacting the organization directly using a trusted phone number.
- Remember, law enforcement will not call demanding payment to avoid arrest or resolve a warrant.
Stay Safe Online
- Use strong, unique passwords and enable multifactor authentication.
- Avoid clicking unfamiliar links or downloading suspicious attachments.
- Review privacy settings on social media accounts.
- Talk with children and teens about online safety and the importance of protecting personal information.
- Think before sharing personal details, travel plans or your location online.
Look Out for Your Neighbors
- Get to know your neighbors and communicate about suspicious activity.
- Report unusual behavior or circumstances rather than confronting individuals.
- Keep an eye on the homes of neighbors who are away.
- Stay informed through official public safety communication channels.
- Remember, if something seems suspicious, report it.
See Something Suspicious? Say Something.
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity to law enforcement. Providing timely information can help deputies investigate potential criminal activity and prevent additional incidents.
For emergencies or crimes in progress, call 911.
To report nonemergency suspicious activity, contact the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center at 843-524-2777.
Working Together for a Safer Beaufort County
Crime Prevention Month serves as an important reminder that public safety begins with awareness, preparation and community involvement.
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to working alongside residents, businesses and community partners to prevent crime and keep Beaufort County a safe place to live, work and visit.
Crime prevention starts with you. Stay alert. Stay informed. Stay safe.
For additional public safety information and crime prevention resources, visit www.bcso.net and follow the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office on social media.
