Police urge caution when discarding holiday containers

Boxes can alert thieves to a home's valuables

Keely Arthur by Keely Arthur

During a time when so many people have so much on their minds, police are warning anyone who got a gift this holiday season to be cautious about how they throw empty boxes and shopping bags away.

Discarding those items in your recycling bin or near your house can advertise to thieves what’s inside your home. It is one of the main reasons why local officers said they see an uptick in burglaries this time of year.

“It’s important to remain hyper vigilant,” Middleton police Officer Matt Jacobs said.

Officers say people should break down all boxes, put them inside a closed recycling bin and only bring the bin out on pick-up day. They also recommend people avoid leaving labels and serial numbers on boxes, which can further identify the goods to thieves.

“Put your garbage or recycling out the morning of, or when you know the garbage man is going to pick those items up. Try to time it as best you can,” Jacobs said.

Don’t forget about your mail when protecting your home. Letters can contain private information, gift cards and checks. Try to bring it all inside as soon as it is delivered.

Make sure to keep gifts and shopping bags out of plain sight in your car/ Either bring them straight into your home or lock them in your vehicle.

“It’s important to be very careful, especially as we go into holiday return season,” Jacobs said. “Put away electronics and change and those types of things that can be enticing for somebody. If your door is open… it (only) takes seconds to enter your car and take your belongings.”

And if you see your neighbor with labeled boxes out on their curb, or if they leave their car doors unlocked, let them know of the dangers, because if your neighbor is a potential victim, you could be too.

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