Fairfax County Police are urging residents to take steps to prevent residential burglaries, which can occur at any time of day. The department notes that criminals often target homes that appear easy to access or seem unoccupied.
The police recommend several practical measures for improving home security. These include locking all doors and windows even when at home, using high-quality deadbolts and reinforced strike plates, and ensuring garages and sheds—especially those storing tools or ladders—are securely locked. Residents are also advised to trim bushes and trees near entryways to remove potential hiding spots for intruders, and to install motion-sensor lighting around entrances, driveways, and walkways.
Layering these basic security precautions can help deter visible crime opportunities and reduce the chances of forced entry.
For safeguarding valuables, police suggest storing important documents, jewelry, and firearms in a sturdy safe bolted to the floor. High-value items should not be left in plain view from windows. It is also recommended to keep an inventory of valuables with serial numbers and photos, as well as review homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies to ensure proper coverage.
“Advance preparation not only helps prevent loss but is also very helpful for investigations and insurance claims if a crime occurs,” the department stated.
Proper placement of security cameras is emphasized for maximum effectiveness. Cameras should cover main entrances such as front doors, back doors, garage doors, and first-floor windows. Homeowners are encouraged to walk around their property to identify blind spots that need coverage. Installing cameras 8-10 feet high can help secure clear footage while reducing the risk of tampering. Outdoor cameras should be weatherproof with night vision capabilities; using high-resolution cameras with motion alerts alongside adequate lighting improves video quality. Both wired cameras for main entrances and wireless options for secondary areas are recommended.
Participation in Connect Fairfax County—a camera registration program—is highlighted as one way residents can support neighborhood investigations.
“Registering your camera location does not give police direct access to your footage,” the department explained. “However, it helps detectives quickly identify nearby camera locations during a crime investigation. In some cases, residents may voluntarily provide footage to assist in solving incidents.”
Even if someone is not directly affected by a crime, their camera may capture evidence valuable to neighbors’ cases.
Registration is free; more information is available at https://connectfairfaxcounty.org/.
Residents unsure where to start can request a free residential security assessment from their local district station’s crime prevention team. Officers will review lighting, locks, landscaping conditions, camera placements, and provide tailored recommendations for improvement.
The department concludes: “Community attention combined with layered security makes a significant difference. By practicing simple prevention steps and staying connected with each other, we can reduce burglary risks across Fairfax County.”
For more details or to schedule a free assessment, contact your local police station or email fcpdOutreach@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Updates are also available on the department blog as well as X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram under @FairfaxCountyPD.
