Fairfax County, VA- October is Crime Prevention Month, a reminder of the importance of taking proactive steps to protect your property. Burglars do not wait for nightfall. They can strike at any hour, including midday. Homes and businesses alike can be targets, but a few smart security habits make a real difference. The Fairfax County Police Department shares the following tips to help residents and business owners protect their property.

Burglary Prevention Habits

For Residents:

  • Keep every door and window locked, even while you are at home.
  • Add deadbolts and reinforced strike plates to strengthen entry points.
  • Place motion-activated lights near doors and other access areas.
  • Trim bushes and trees so burglars have nowhere to hide.
  • Skip the hidden spare key. Use a lockbox instead.
  • Set timers on lamps and TVs so the home looks occupied.
  • Lock up garages and sheds so tools and ladders stay out of reach.
  • Call our non-emergency number at 703-691-2131 to report suspicious activity.

For Businesses:

  • Install quality locks on all doors and windows.
  • Protect glass doors and windows with security film or bars.
  • Leave interior and exterior lights on after hours.
  • Consider property design upgrades, such as bollards or barriers.
  • Restrict who holds keys, and rekey locks when employees depart.
  • Lock up safes and registers, and do not leave extra cash on site overnight.
  • Put up surveillance cameras with clearly visible warning signs.
  • Schedule routine security reviews with your Crime Prevention Unit.
  • Call our non-emergency line at 703-691-2131 to report suspicious activity.

Get Involved: Community Resources and Crime Prevention


Residents and business owners can request a free security assessment from the Crime Prevention Unit at their district station. The visit highlights what is working and where improvements are needed. To stay informed, check our weekly Community Events blog for Neighborhood Watch meetings, Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) meetings, and special trainings. These events offer a look at local crime trends and a chance to meet officers who serve your district.

Connect Fairfax County: Building a Safer Community

Joining the Connect Fairfax County program is a strong way to support crime prevention. Registering a camera does not give police access to your footage. It does help detectives locate cameras near a crime scene that may have recorded useful evidence. Even if you have never been a victim, your footage could help solve a case in your neighborhood.

With these steps and the help of our community, we can reduce burglaries and keep Fairfax County safe. To learn more or request a free security assessment, contact your district station today.

Interested in joining our team? Visit our website to learn more about joining FCPD.

Register your camera with Connect Fairfax County to help FCPD solve crimes, locate missing people, and support investigations.

For more ways to stay connected, please read our blog and follow us on X, Facebook, and Instagram @FairfaxcountyPD.