Crime Stoppers offers tips on securing your home

The DuPage County Crime Stoppers are encouraging residents to take a few extra steps to make sure their homes are secure during the holiday season.

Statistics show a dramatic increase in property crimes such as residential burglaries during this time of the year. Unfortunately, crime doesn't take a holiday. The holiday season is a time when busy people become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. By following these simple steps you can help minimize your chances of becoming a victim.

First be careful when someone you do not know comes to your door during the holiday season, criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts.

Secondly don't let the rush and excitement of the holiday season make you careless in protecting your home from potential criminals.

Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.

When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.

Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer.

Leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.

Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.

After the holidays, don't advertise the gifts received by leaving boxes for the garbage collection.

Destroy all boxes by placing them in a sealed, non-clear garbage bag, or flatten for closure in a recycle bin.

These were just a few tips from the DuPage County Crime Stoppers. Remember if You See Something or Hear Something, Say Something. Report everything that needs immediate attention to 911. Report any ongoing crimes to Crime Stoppers by Texting the keyword DUPAGE, then your information to CRIMES (274637) or by Typing in you information in on the Crime Stopper Web Site (dupagecrimestoppers.com) or by Talking to the Crime Stopper Operator at 800-222-TIPS.