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Official Seal of the Town of Emelle, AlabamaTown ofEmelleSumter County · Alabama · Inc. 1981

Crime Prevention & Safety

Simple, everyday steps can greatly reduce the chance of becoming a victim of crime.

Home Security

  • Lock all doors and windows, even when you are home or only stepping out briefly.
  • Install motion-sensor lighting on porches, driveways, and outbuildings.
  • Keep shrubs trimmed so doors and windows are visible from the road.
  • Do not leave spare keys under mats, flowerpots, or above door frames.
  • Record serial numbers and take photographs of valuable property.

Vehicle Safety

  • Always lock your vehicle and take your keys with you.
  • Never leave firearms, purses, wallets, or electronics visible inside a vehicle.
  • Park in well-lit areas when possible.

Farm, Equipment & Outbuilding Security

Theft of tools, trailers, fuel, and farm equipment is a concern in rural communities. Secure equipment with locks and chains, mark tools with an identifying number, keep sheds and barns locked, and report unfamiliar vehicles that appear to be scouting properties.

Scams & Fraud

Be cautious of anyone who contacts you unexpectedly and:

  • Claims to be from a government agency, utility, bank, or law enforcement and demands immediate payment
  • Asks to be paid with gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or cash sent by mail
  • Says a grandchild or relative is in trouble and needs money right away
  • Tells you that you have won a prize but must pay a fee to collect it
  • Offers home repair work door-to-door and requests full payment up front

When in doubt, hang up and call a trusted family member or the Emelle Police Department at (205) 286-2243.

Severe Weather Preparedness

West Alabama is subject to tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and flooding. Every household should have a weather radio, a plan for where to shelter, and a kit with water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, medications, and important documents. Sign up for alerts through the Alabama Emergency Management Agency and follow the National Weather Service in Birmingham.

Child & School Safety

  • Stop for school buses when red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended.
  • Teach children their full name, address, and a parent's phone number.
  • Talk with children about online safety and who they communicate with.

Questions?

For more safety information or to schedule a safety talk for your group, contact Chief Edward Fuller at e.fuller@emelle.org.