A well-functioning neighborhood has prevented many a burglary. A brief message over the garden fence: "We won't be there next week" should be a matter of course in the neighborhood. Suspicious persons on the property next door will immediately catch your eye and can be reported to the police via the emergency number 110. The following things can be done to make your own neighborhood "safer":

• Slow-moving cars with out-of-town license plates that do not belong in "your" residential area - burglars may be looking for a worthwhile target. Note the license plate number
• Strangers ring the doorbell at several apartments in the house or roam around the neighboring property - burglars may want to find out if someone is at home. Speak to strangers!
• Unknown people seem to be waiting in the street, in the hallway or in a parked car for no reason - maybe someone is looking for you. Please call the police on 110
• Wood splinters from a door in the stairwell, you hear drilling or levering noises, it's not always workmen - maybe it's a burglary. Make yourself noticed - check what's going on!
• Door salesmen or advertisers are behaving conspicuously - perhaps they just want to inspect your door locks. Suspicious persons should be reported immediately by calling 110

Cultivate contacts with your neighbors for more quality of life and security, because burglars and thieves have less chance in an attentive neighborhood! (lü)