Residential Burglary

Home Security Tips

• If you leave windows open while sleeping, don’t leave any first floor windows open.
• Don’t leave valuables in places visible from the street.
• Always lock your doors.
• Don’t hide keys on your property. Instead, leave a key to a trusted neighbor.
• Maintain up-to-date serial number records for all laptops and tablets, appliances, radios and TVs, tools, firearms, cell phones and all other valuables. If possible, inscribe or label your valuables with your initials or numbers of your choice (don’t use your Social Security Number). Take photographs of valuables, whenever possible.
• Alert your neighbors to suspicious people or activity.
• If you plan to be away from your home for some time, make sure your home looks lived in, not empty:
  • Lock all windows and doors. Double check basement and garage doors before you leave.
  • Stop mail and cancel all deliveries, or ask a friend to make daily collections.
  • Hide empty garbage cans.
  • Leave shades and blinds in normal positions.
  • Put an automatic timer on lights.
  • Have a neighbor keep your property maintained.
  • Store valuables in a safe deposit box.
  • Tell a trusted neighbor your departure and return dates. Supply an itinerary with phone numbers where you can be reached in an emergency.
  • Don’t indicate on your voicemail or social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, etc.) that you will be away.
  • Ask police to make extra checks at your residence.
  • Consider installing a home security system as an extra safety measure.

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What to Do if You’re a Burglary Victim

• Don’t enter your residence.
• Call the police immediately.
• While awaiting the police, don’t touch anything or allow anyone to enter.
• Assist the police by compiling a list of serial numbers and/or exact descriptions of the stolen property to increase the chance of property recovery.

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