I can still hear the words, echoing in my ears. It might be dating myself, but if you are of a certain age too, chances are it’s a phrase that consumes some part of your memories.
“It’s 10 p.m. Do you know where your children are?”
I have heard many joke that, “back in the day,” our parents were so laid back, the news had to remind them they even had children. But, at its heart, the phrase was created to instill a reminder in parents. Have you accounted for your children? Do you know their plans? Have you ensured their safety, or tucked them into bed?
The Lower Gwynedd Township Police are promoting a reminder of their own, along a similar vein. However, they’re encouraging a 9 p.m. Routine. With a rise of theft cases in the township and surrounding communities, Lower Gwynedd Township Police Department Chief Paul D. Kenny took to Crimewatch to remind local residents of some basic safety measures.
“To prevent further incidents, you might want to consider adopting the '9 p.m. Routine,'" said Kenny via the department’s Crimewatch site.
Kenny said that the concept may provide helpful reminders to area residents.
“This routine involves residents making a habit of checking that their vehicles, homes, and property are secure each evening at 9 p.m.,” said the department’s chief.
The recommended steps for a 9 p.m. Routine include:
These small checkpoints can be a solid way to keep you and yours protected.
“By consistently following these steps, residents can reduce the likelihood of becoming victims of theft,” said Kenny. “Stay vigilant and encourage your neighbors to do the same.”