White said that most burglaries occur because of drugs in some capacity whether it is to steal drugs, to get money to support a drug habit or to sell drugs. He stressed knowing your neighbors is key to keeping yourself or others safe. It is important to check on your neighbors and have them check on you and your property. Call the police if you notice anything suspicious.
He also explained the difference between burglaries and criminal trespass. A burglary is when someone enters your house or garage and takes something. Criminal trespass is when someone enters your home or garage but doesn’t take anything. Statistics show that most burglaries are committed during daytime hours.
August, July and June are the highest burglary rate months in that order. Therefore, before you have a problem, check your home and find a safe place to hide. If someone tries to break in, call the police from your hiding place.
He suggested removing or cutting shrubs low that are close to your house so people can’t hide in them. He also said if you have an attached garage, keep the garage door closed.
Another suggestion is the have infra auto sensor lights or motion lights and possibly lights on timers. Having dowels or nails to keep windows at a certain height so people can’t get in or raise windows higher is a good idea. Having noise on when you are out can sometimes deter robbers. If someone comes to your door, don’t let them in or give out any personal information.
Det. White passed out some very informative pamphlets and took questions from the audience.
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