Summer Safety Tips from the Statesville Police Department

June 1 - August 31, 2025

Your Safety Is Our Priority - All Summer Long

As temperatures rise and school is out, the summer season brings more activity around Statesville - cookouts, vacations, festivals, and time outdoors. It also brings a seasonal spike in certain crimes and safety concerns that the Statesville Police Department is here to help you prevent.

We’ve prepared 14 Summer Safety Tips - each one grounded in the real-life work of SPD officers and tailored to keep you, your family, and your community safe. These tips will be shared weekly on our social media all summer long.

Going on Vacation? Protect Your Home

Did you know the Statesville Police Department offers FREE Vacation House Checks for city residents living in single-family homes or duplexes? When you’re going out of town or on vacation, follow these simple steps to keep your home safe:

• Lock all doors, windows, and garages.

• Put lights on timers and stop mail delivery.

• Don’t post vacation plans or real-time photos on social media until after you return.

• Have someone you trust check your home, collect mail/packages, and take out your trash. A home that looks lived-in is less likely to be targeted.

• Store jewelry, cash, or important documents in a safe or safety deposit box.

• Check your security system. Make sure all cameras, alarms, and motion sensors are working.

Learn more about our Vacation House Checks here.

Fireworks Safety

The 4th of July is a time for celebration - but let’s make sure it’s a safe one!

As you prepare to enjoy the holiday, the Statesville Police Department encourages everyone to keep these fireworks safety tips in mind:

• Stick to legal fireworks – In NC, anything that explodes or shoots into the air is illegal for personal use. When in doubt, leave it to the professionals.

• Supervise children closely – Even sparklers can cause serious burns. Keep fireworks out of small hands.

• Have a water source ready – A bucket or hose can make all the difference in case something goes wrong.

• Don’t try to relight duds – Soak them in water and dispose of them properly.

• Be respectful – Fireworks can be stressful for neighbors, pets, and veterans.

Celebrate responsibly and be mindful of the time of night.

We invite you to join us at the City of Statesville NC Fireworks Celebration! Thursday, July 3, 2025. Learn more here.

Preventing Heatstroke: Look Before You Lock

Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can skyrocket by 20 degrees in just 10 minutes. On a hot day, it can become deadly even faster.

Children’s bodies heat up three to five times faster than adults. That means heatstroke can begin in just minutes—even if the windows are cracked or the car is parked in the shade.

Here’s how you can help prevent a tragedy:

• Always check the backseat before locking your car. Make it a habit—every time, no matter how short the trip.

• Place a personal item like your purse, phone, or even a shoe in the backseat to give yourself a reason to look before you lock.

• Keep your car locked at home, even in the driveway. Curious kids have been known to climb into parked cars and become trapped.

• Never let children play in or around vehicles unattended.

Call 911 immediately if you see a child or pet left unattended in a vehicle.

Prevent Vehicle Break-Ins

Every 32 seconds a vehicle is stolen in the U.S. That adds up to more than one million each year. Many of these crimes are crimes of opportunity, and with simple precautions, they can often be avoided. We also see a rise in vehicle break-ins during the summer months.

•  Lock your doors - even in your own driveway.

• Remove valuables from view (purses, wallets, electronics).

• Park in well-lit areas at night.

July is Vehicle Theft Prevention Month. Read more prevention tips here.

Buy & Sell Safely on Facebook Marketplace and Similar Apps

Online marketplaces like Facebook and Craigslist have made it easier than ever to buy, sell, and swap goods in our community. While convenient, these platforms can also open the door to scams or unsafe encounters if you’re not careful. The Statesville Police Department wants to help you stay safe while making those deals.

Here are some important safety tips:

• Avoid meeting strangers at your home. Instead, meet in a public, well-lit area during daylight hours.

• Bring a friend with you when possible, especially for high-value transactions.

• Never send money in advance or agree to payment methods that seem unusual or suspicious - such as gift cards, wire transfers, or overpayment schemes.

• Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to walk away from a deal that doesn’t seem right.

If you ever feel unsafe or want to report suspicious behavior, call SPD’s non-emergency line - or 911 if it’s urgent.

Bike & Scooter Rules of the Road

More bikes = more responsibility. Accidents involving bikes or scooters can often be prevented.

• Obey all traffic signals. Bikes are considered vehicles under NC law and must follow the same rules as cars.

• Wear a helmet and bright clothing. Visibility and protection are key to preventing injuries.

• Parents – teach kids to use crosswalks and stay alert. Practice safe habits together before kids ride alone.

• Drivers – slow down and stay aware. Leave a few extra minutes in your travel plans and watch carefully for bikes, scooters, and pedestrians.

Watch Your Speed in Neighborhoods

School may be out, but summer traffic safety still matters.

The Statesville Police Department reminds drivers to stay alert and cautious in residential areas where kids are more active during the warmer months.

• Watch for children in residential areas. Kids are outside more often in summer. Slow down and stay alert.

• Enforcement is active year-round. SPD conducts traffic enforcement in neighborhoods, especially near parks and playgrounds.

• Be extra cautious during high-traffic hours. Drive carefully during early mornings and evenings when visibility is lower.

Stay Safe at Events & Crowds

Summer brings fun gatherings, and SPD is here to help keep public events safe for all.

As you head out to festivals, concerts, or community events, keep these safety reminders in mind:

• Be aware of your surroundings. Know where exits are and stay alert in crowded spaces.

• Secure your personal belongings. Keep bags zipped and valuables out of sight to avoid theft.

• Set a meetup spot. Choose a designated location in case you or your family get separated.

Watch for Impaired & Distracted Driving

Summer celebrations can lead to dangerous decisions behind the wheel.

The Statesville Police Department urges drivers to make smart choices and avoid preventable tragedies.

• SPD conducts DWI checkpoints year-round. Officers are always on the lookout for impaired drivers.

• Don’t text and drive. Distracted driving is illegal and deadly. Keep your eyes—and your mind—on the road.

• Plan for a safe ride. Use a designated driver, ride-share, or public transit if you plan to drink.

Teach Kids About Stranger Safety

With more independence during summer, it’s a great time to talk to kids about staying safe.

The Statesville Police Department encourages parents and caregivers to have honest, age-appropriate conversations with children.

• Avoid strangers and unfamiliar vehicles. Remind kids never to talk to strangers or go near unknown cars.

• Memorize key contacts. Make sure they know important phone numbers and how to reach a trusted adult.

• Teach how to call 911. Walk through when and how to call for help in an emergency.

Secure Garages, Sheds, and Tools

Summer months often bring a rise in property thefts, especially in neighborhoods.

To help protect your belongings, SPD recommends taking these simple precautions:

• Lock outdoor storage. Always lock garages, sheds, and toolboxes—even during the day.

• Record serial numbers. Keep a list of serial numbers for tools, bikes, and lawn equipment in case of theft.

• Install motion lights. Lighting around your home can deter thieves and improve nighttime visibility.

From all of us at the Statesville Police Department, we hope you enjoy a fun, safe, and memorable summer. Follow us on social media here for reminders, tips, and updates - because safety is a shared responsibility.

Stay alert, stay safe, and enjoy the sunshine!

Learn more about the Statesville Police Department on our website at police.statesvillenc.net.