Granada Neighborhood Association

March

Mar 10, 2008

Neighborhood Notes

The monthly newsletter for events and issues facing the Granada neighborhood area. Topics in this issue.

• Sign Ordinance


• Vacation Checklist

Sign Ordinance

You've seen the signs. Signs mounted on a utility pole announcing weight loss services or legal aid ... signs on sidewalks advertising easy credit card memberships ... signs on the shoulder of the road or bike paths announcing a new business around the corner ... signs advertising a garage sale ... signs giving directions to an apartment complex or new housing development.

All these signs are illegal. The city's ordinance governing signs in right-of-way areas includes severe penalties for anyone violating the ordinance. For more information about illegal signs or to report a violation..
Phone
602.534.7100
e-mail
illegal.signs.rightofway.nsd@phoenix.gov.


Vacation Check List


An empty house is a tempting target for a burglar. Use this checklist of tips to help
safeguard your home while you're away.

• Have good locks on all doors and windows and USE THEM!


• Ask a neighbor to watch the house while you're away. It's a good idea to leave
  your vacation address and telephone number with a neighbor so you can be reached in case of an emergency.


• Never leave your house key hidden outside your home.


• Stop all deliveries, or arrange for a neighbor to pick up your mail, newspapers and
  packages.


• Arrange for someone to mow your lawn, rake leaves and maintain the yard to give the home a lived-in look.


• Plug in timers to turn lights, a radio or television on and off at appropriate times.
  This helps to disguise the fact that you are away.


• Turn the bell or ringer on your telephone down low. If a burglar is around, he won't be alerted to your absence by a ringing phone.


• Don't announce your absence on answering machine messages.


• Leave your blinds, shades and curtains in a normal position. Don't close them unless that is what you do when you are home.


• Close and lock garage doors and windows. Ask a neighbor to occasionally park in your driveway. If you leave your car at home, park it as you normally would.


• Vehicles parked outside should be moved occasionally to appear that they are being used.


• Secure storage sheds, attic entrances and gates.


• Tell your local police you plan to be away. Patrol officers may have the opportunity to periodically check your home.


• Engrave your valuables as recommended in Operation I.D. This simple step will allow your stolen property to be identified and returned to you if recovered by the police.