Police warn residents about holiday burglaries
Police are warning locals to take steps to protect themselves from holiday-season burglaries as Thanksgiving approaches.
Last year 16 residential burglaries were reported over the Thanksgiving counting period, when the University of Missouri is out of session and many people are out of town for the holiday, according to a Columbia Police Department news release.
CPD said the number represents the fewest Thanksgiving burglaries in the last nine years, but reminds people to continue to be vigilant.
Police provided the following tips to keep residences safe from burglars:
Make sure all doors and window are closed and locked Put a medal rod or wooden dowel rod in the track of sliding glass doors Make sure to lock the door to an attached garage Close blinds and shades Use light and TV timers to create the illusion of being home Keep the surroundings of homes well-lit Never leave clues that the residents are away on a trip Don’t leave a message on your answering machine saying you are out of town Keep shrubbery cut to reduce hiding spots for thieves
CPD said it also recommends photographing valuables to help police in their investigation and save time if your residence is burglarized.
Officers on patrol will be focused on stopping burglaries over the break, CPD said.
Anyone who notices suspicious activity should report it to law enforcement immediately by calling CPD at 573-874-7652 or CrimeStoppers at 875-TIPS (8477).
