The summer is practically upon us, and the Los Angeles Police Department wants local residents to remember to make safety a priority this season.
Property crimes have especially been a concern in the area of late, according to Sergeant Ruben Arellano who oversees the LAPD Northeast Community Police Station's community relations and senior lead offices.
He recommends exercising caution and using common sense measures at home especially when it comes to leaving windows open during the summer months.
"At night time, we really don't recommend you sleeping with the windows open," Arellano said. "That's what burglars look for. They look for easy access. An open window is all too inviting."
Police say it is also a good idea to keep an eye on open windows and exercise caution when leaving windows at the rear of a house open.
Car burglaries are also a concern this time of year. Tablets, laptop computers, iPhones, and other cell phones, and iPads are popular targets if they are left in plain view inside of a car, according to Arellano.
"We have a campaign: lock it, hide it, keep it," Arellano said. "That's what we're trying to tell people."
Valuables should be locked in the trunk of your car before arriving at your destination.
Whether driving around or out for a hike, police stress always keep safety first.
"The most important thing is to be aware of your surroundings," Arellano said. "One of the big deterrents is criminals don't want to be recognized, and one of the last things they want is eye contact, so walk with your head up."
To contact the LAPD Northeast Community Police Station, call (323)344-5701.